What's On: coming up in England's Mid-West counties
Coming soon to a venue near you! Great live performances from some of our finest folk, acoustic and innovative artists in England's 'mid west'. We promote live music in Bath, Bristol, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Leamington, Newbury, Oxfordshire, Stratford-upon-Avon, North Somerset, Swindon and Worcestershire - or thereabouts. For tickets and more information of each gig, click on the orange website links. Looking for entertainment further afield? Then check out our nationwide music festivals listing page.
Friday 1st January 2021 - Edwina Hayes
The Kitchen Garden Café, York Road, KingsHeath B14 &SA: Friday 1st January 2021
Edwina’s beautifully written songs, charming stage presence and voice of an angel have won her a reputation as a true natural talent of gentle folk-Americana.
She has opened numerous shows for Jools Holland and Van Morrison, supported Nanci Griffith, Ricky Ross, Riger McGuinn and Loudon Wainwright III, toured with Fairport Convention and performed her own gigs playing stages everywhere from Glastonbury Festival to The Royal Albert Hall.
In 2009 her sensitive version of Randy Newman's 'Feel Like Home' was featured in the motion picture My Sister's Keeper.
Edwina was born in Dublin and grew up in Preston, Lancashire, before moving to the East coast of Yorkshire as a teenager, where she has been based ever since. Dividing her time between the UK and America, Edwina’s second home is Nashville where she is much loved as a songwriter and artist.
For more information and full tour dates visit www.edwinahayes.com
Edwina’s beautifully written songs, charming stage presence and voice of an angel have won her a reputation as a true natural talent of gentle folk-Americana.
She has opened numerous shows for Jools Holland and Van Morrison, supported Nanci Griffith, Ricky Ross, Riger McGuinn and Loudon Wainwright III, toured with Fairport Convention and performed her own gigs playing stages everywhere from Glastonbury Festival to The Royal Albert Hall.
In 2009 her sensitive version of Randy Newman's 'Feel Like Home' was featured in the motion picture My Sister's Keeper.
Edwina was born in Dublin and grew up in Preston, Lancashire, before moving to the East coast of Yorkshire as a teenager, where she has been based ever since. Dividing her time between the UK and America, Edwina’s second home is Nashville where she is much loved as a songwriter and artist.
For more information and full tour dates visit www.edwinahayes.com
Sunday 17th January 2021 - Brooks Williams
Chapel Arts Centre, Lower Borough Walls, Bath BA1 1QR: Sunday 17th January 2021
The Parlour Room, Ardley, Bicester Oxon: Sunday 15th May 2021
The Ellis Theatre, Marlborough College, Marlborough: Monday 19th July 2021
Supremely talented guitarist and songwriter Brooks Williams marks thirty years on the road in 2021, with a series of concerts on both sides of the Atlantic. He will also be touring extensively as the 'State of the Union' duo with Boo Hewerdine throughout the year.
For his 30th anniversary, Brooks has recorded an album of favorites from his back catalogue, re-imagined and re-recorded. Work My Claim shows off the full range of his voice, guitar styles and musical influences. The album features contributions by some of his closest musician friends including John McCusker (Mark Knopfler, McCusker-McGoldrick-Doyle, Heidi Talbot, Phil Cunningham-Ally Bain); Christine Collister (Richard Thompson, Daphne’s Flight); Jim Henry (Eliza Gilkyson, Tracy Grammer, The Boxcar Lillies); Aaron Catlow (Yola Carter, Sheelanagig, Hawes & Catlow), Ralf Grottian and Phil Richardson (Claypath).
For tickets and further information visit brookswilliams.com/concerts
The Parlour Room, Ardley, Bicester Oxon: Sunday 15th May 2021
The Ellis Theatre, Marlborough College, Marlborough: Monday 19th July 2021
Supremely talented guitarist and songwriter Brooks Williams marks thirty years on the road in 2021, with a series of concerts on both sides of the Atlantic. He will also be touring extensively as the 'State of the Union' duo with Boo Hewerdine throughout the year.
For his 30th anniversary, Brooks has recorded an album of favorites from his back catalogue, re-imagined and re-recorded. Work My Claim shows off the full range of his voice, guitar styles and musical influences. The album features contributions by some of his closest musician friends including John McCusker (Mark Knopfler, McCusker-McGoldrick-Doyle, Heidi Talbot, Phil Cunningham-Ally Bain); Christine Collister (Richard Thompson, Daphne’s Flight); Jim Henry (Eliza Gilkyson, Tracy Grammer, The Boxcar Lillies); Aaron Catlow (Yola Carter, Sheelanagig, Hawes & Catlow), Ralf Grottian and Phil Richardson (Claypath).
For tickets and further information visit brookswilliams.com/concerts
Wednesday 27th January 2021 - Fairport Convention
The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX: Wednesday 27th January 2021
Fairport Convention have been entertaining music lovers for over half a century. During that time the band that launched British folk-rock has seen many changes. But one thing has remained the same - Fairport’s passion for performance.
This year’s Winter Tour will present a mix of long-established Fairport favourites and some surprises from albums old and new including their latest album, Shuffle & Go, which was released in 2020.
Fairport Convention have won a BBC Lifetime Achievement Award and Radio 2 listeners voted their groundbreaking album Liege & Lief 'The Most Influential Folk Album of All Time'. Their story has been celebrated with television documentaries on BBC Four and Sky Arts.
Special Guest for the Tour is Singer / Songwriter - Luke Jackson. Luke is a wonderful performer gaining much recognition for his recorded work as well as touring the UK, Europe, and America relentlessly.
Further information and full tour details www.fairportconvention.com
Fairport Convention have been entertaining music lovers for over half a century. During that time the band that launched British folk-rock has seen many changes. But one thing has remained the same - Fairport’s passion for performance.
This year’s Winter Tour will present a mix of long-established Fairport favourites and some surprises from albums old and new including their latest album, Shuffle & Go, which was released in 2020.
Fairport Convention have won a BBC Lifetime Achievement Award and Radio 2 listeners voted their groundbreaking album Liege & Lief 'The Most Influential Folk Album of All Time'. Their story has been celebrated with television documentaries on BBC Four and Sky Arts.
Special Guest for the Tour is Singer / Songwriter - Luke Jackson. Luke is a wonderful performer gaining much recognition for his recorded work as well as touring the UK, Europe, and America relentlessly.
Further information and full tour details www.fairportconvention.com
Wednesday 28th January 2021 - Martyn Joseph
The Huntingdon Hall, Crowngate, Worcester WR: Thursday 28th January 2021
1532 Performing Arts Centre, Elton Road, Bristol BS8 1JS: Sunday 7th February 2021
Martyn Joseph is a performer like no other: Shades of Springsteen, John Mayer, Bruce Cockburn and Dave Matthews there may be - but he stands in his own right, built on a reputation for giving what thousands have described as the best live music experience of their lives delivering his "songs of lyrical intelligence" according to BBC Radio 2's Bob Harris. In addition to his five top 50 UK hits, the importance of his work has been recognised by programmes such as BBC Radio 2’s prime time series on Singer/Songwriters. Social justice has an essential presence throughout his music, which has been recognised with various humanitarian awards and plaudits.
There is a versatility to Martyn’s music that is hard to categorise. Many have tried, resulting in labels such as Folk, Rock, Soul, Folk Funk and Americana; all of which somehow miss the mark. But sometimes music doesn’t need a defining genre and with the ability to articulate a sense of the bigger picture, Martyn’s music and social commentary manage to empower and speak for many.
Tickets, information and full tour dates www.martynjoseph.net
1532 Performing Arts Centre, Elton Road, Bristol BS8 1JS: Sunday 7th February 2021
Martyn Joseph is a performer like no other: Shades of Springsteen, John Mayer, Bruce Cockburn and Dave Matthews there may be - but he stands in his own right, built on a reputation for giving what thousands have described as the best live music experience of their lives delivering his "songs of lyrical intelligence" according to BBC Radio 2's Bob Harris. In addition to his five top 50 UK hits, the importance of his work has been recognised by programmes such as BBC Radio 2’s prime time series on Singer/Songwriters. Social justice has an essential presence throughout his music, which has been recognised with various humanitarian awards and plaudits.
There is a versatility to Martyn’s music that is hard to categorise. Many have tried, resulting in labels such as Folk, Rock, Soul, Folk Funk and Americana; all of which somehow miss the mark. But sometimes music doesn’t need a defining genre and with the ability to articulate a sense of the bigger picture, Martyn’s music and social commentary manage to empower and speak for many.
Tickets, information and full tour dates www.martynjoseph.net
Wednesday 3rd February 2021 - Steve Knightley
Town Hall, High Street, Marlborough SN8 1AA: Wednesday 3rd February 2021
The Theatre, Spring Street, Chipping Norton OX7 5NL: Thursday 4th February 2021
The Painswick Centre, Bisley Street, Painswick GL6 6QQ: Saturday 13th February 2021
Nettlebed Folk Club, Village Hall, Nettlebed RG9 5DD: Monday 15th February 2021
Westbury Village Hall, Eastfield Road, Westbury-on-Trym BS9 4AG: Saturday 20th March 2021
Steve Knightley is an English singer, songwriter and acoustic musician. Since 1992 he has been one half of possibly the UK's most successful Folk/Roots duos – 'Show of Hands'. His partner Phil Beer is widely regarded as one of the world's finest acoustic multi-instrumentalists, and Steve is himself one of the finest songwriters on the international circuit.
At the 2010 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Steve and Phil received a prestigious double accolade when they were named ‘Best Duo’ and also clinched the ‘Best Original Song’ award for Steve’s punchy ‘Arrogance Ignorance and Greed’ title track which has gone on to be one of the most acclaimed – and continually topical! – songs in the SoH repertoire.
"One of England’s greatest singer songwriters” - Mike Harding, BBC Radio 2
For full tour dates and further information www.showofhands.co.uk/steve-knightley-tour-dates
The Theatre, Spring Street, Chipping Norton OX7 5NL: Thursday 4th February 2021
The Painswick Centre, Bisley Street, Painswick GL6 6QQ: Saturday 13th February 2021
Nettlebed Folk Club, Village Hall, Nettlebed RG9 5DD: Monday 15th February 2021
Westbury Village Hall, Eastfield Road, Westbury-on-Trym BS9 4AG: Saturday 20th March 2021
Steve Knightley is an English singer, songwriter and acoustic musician. Since 1992 he has been one half of possibly the UK's most successful Folk/Roots duos – 'Show of Hands'. His partner Phil Beer is widely regarded as one of the world's finest acoustic multi-instrumentalists, and Steve is himself one of the finest songwriters on the international circuit.
At the 2010 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Steve and Phil received a prestigious double accolade when they were named ‘Best Duo’ and also clinched the ‘Best Original Song’ award for Steve’s punchy ‘Arrogance Ignorance and Greed’ title track which has gone on to be one of the most acclaimed – and continually topical! – songs in the SoH repertoire.
"One of England’s greatest singer songwriters” - Mike Harding, BBC Radio 2
For full tour dates and further information www.showofhands.co.uk/steve-knightley-tour-dates
Saturday 6th February 2021 - Phil Beer
Westbury Village Hall, Eastfield Road, Westbury-on-Trym BS9 4AG: Saturday 6th February 2021
The Playhouse, Bath Road, Cheltenham GL50: Saturday 13th February 2021
Huntingdon Hall, Crowngate, Worcester: Wednesday 17th February 2021
The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX: Thursday 18th March 2021 (band gig)
Phil is one of the most popular ambassadors for acoustic roots music. A dazzling instrumentalist, he is perhaps best known as a top flight fiddler and plays in the all-star line-up, Feast of Fiddles. But his skills don’t stop there, he also plays slide, Spanish and tenor guitar, mandocello, viola, mandolin and South American cuatro, not to mention contributing rich vocals.
He played his first gig at 14 and started working as a duo with Paul Downes in 1974 (their re-union Live at Nettlebed CD was released four years ago on the Talking Elephant label). He was then in the Arizona Smoke Revue and a key member of Johnny Coppin’s band. His impressive track record also includes touring with Mike Oldfield and being a member of the feted Albion Band from 1984-1991.
Show of Hands became a full-time partnership in the early 90s, a band that has gone on to sell out the Royal Albert Hall three times and who were voted Best Live Act, by the public, at the 2004 Folk Awards.
For tickets and more informaion visit www.showofhands.co.uk/phil-beer-tour-dates
The Playhouse, Bath Road, Cheltenham GL50: Saturday 13th February 2021
Huntingdon Hall, Crowngate, Worcester: Wednesday 17th February 2021
The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX: Thursday 18th March 2021 (band gig)
Phil is one of the most popular ambassadors for acoustic roots music. A dazzling instrumentalist, he is perhaps best known as a top flight fiddler and plays in the all-star line-up, Feast of Fiddles. But his skills don’t stop there, he also plays slide, Spanish and tenor guitar, mandocello, viola, mandolin and South American cuatro, not to mention contributing rich vocals.
He played his first gig at 14 and started working as a duo with Paul Downes in 1974 (their re-union Live at Nettlebed CD was released four years ago on the Talking Elephant label). He was then in the Arizona Smoke Revue and a key member of Johnny Coppin’s band. His impressive track record also includes touring with Mike Oldfield and being a member of the feted Albion Band from 1984-1991.
Show of Hands became a full-time partnership in the early 90s, a band that has gone on to sell out the Royal Albert Hall three times and who were voted Best Live Act, by the public, at the 2004 Folk Awards.
For tickets and more informaion visit www.showofhands.co.uk/phil-beer-tour-dates
Friday 19th February 2021 - Harbottle & Jonas
Downend Folk Club, Frenchay Village Hall, Beckspool Rd, Downend BS16 1NU: Fri 19th February 2021
Kitchen Garden Café, York Road, Kings Heath B14 7SA: Thursday 15th April 2021
Partners in life and music, dynamic Devon duo Harbottle & Jonas are currently touring with their fourth and most ambitious album, 'The Sea Is My Brother'.
Combining a love of the richness of traditional folk with their own original and powerful songwriting, the album's maritime theme is maintained across political, historical, and personal stories and songs.
Their music is eclectic and always accompanied with a great story. Together the husband and wife duo combine the rich traditions of folk music with original and contemporary interpretations through a blend of closely intertwined vocal harmonies and compelling and authentic musical arrangements, blending concertina, harmonium, banjo, cittern, stomp box and acoustic guitar. They have developed a unique and original signature sound, that is unmistakably Harbottle and Jonas.
Further information and full tour dates www.harbottleandjonas.com/2021
Kitchen Garden Café, York Road, Kings Heath B14 7SA: Thursday 15th April 2021
Partners in life and music, dynamic Devon duo Harbottle & Jonas are currently touring with their fourth and most ambitious album, 'The Sea Is My Brother'.
Combining a love of the richness of traditional folk with their own original and powerful songwriting, the album's maritime theme is maintained across political, historical, and personal stories and songs.
Their music is eclectic and always accompanied with a great story. Together the husband and wife duo combine the rich traditions of folk music with original and contemporary interpretations through a blend of closely intertwined vocal harmonies and compelling and authentic musical arrangements, blending concertina, harmonium, banjo, cittern, stomp box and acoustic guitar. They have developed a unique and original signature sound, that is unmistakably Harbottle and Jonas.
Further information and full tour dates www.harbottleandjonas.com/2021
Thursday 25th February 2021 - The Budapest Café Orchestra
The Theatre, Spring Street, Chipping Norton OX7 5NL: Thursday 25th February 2021
The Market Theatre, Market Street, Ledbury HR8 2AQ: Saturday 1st May 2021
Hugely entertaining with immense skill and profound musicianship, The Budapest Café Orchestra have won acclaim from fans, fellow musicians and critics alike for their electrifying and entertaining shows. The Budapest Café Orchestra is a hybrid super acoustic band for the 21st Century, led by jazz violin superstar Christian Garrick, and playing traditional folk and gypsy-flavoured music from across the Balkans and Russia. Mournful Klezmer melodies, raucous Romanian Doinas and Hungarian Czadas are all encountered alongside beautiful ballads, such as the theme to Schindler's List and Andy Statman's haunting Flatbush Waltz.
Evoking vivid images of Tzigane fiddle maestros, Budapest café life and gypsy campfires - plus a few surprises along the way - a show by the BCO will make you want to book that holiday down the Danube.
For tickets and full tour dates visit www.budapestcafeorchestra.co.uk
The Market Theatre, Market Street, Ledbury HR8 2AQ: Saturday 1st May 2021
Hugely entertaining with immense skill and profound musicianship, The Budapest Café Orchestra have won acclaim from fans, fellow musicians and critics alike for their electrifying and entertaining shows. The Budapest Café Orchestra is a hybrid super acoustic band for the 21st Century, led by jazz violin superstar Christian Garrick, and playing traditional folk and gypsy-flavoured music from across the Balkans and Russia. Mournful Klezmer melodies, raucous Romanian Doinas and Hungarian Czadas are all encountered alongside beautiful ballads, such as the theme to Schindler's List and Andy Statman's haunting Flatbush Waltz.
Evoking vivid images of Tzigane fiddle maestros, Budapest café life and gypsy campfires - plus a few surprises along the way - a show by the BCO will make you want to book that holiday down the Danube.
For tickets and full tour dates visit www.budapestcafeorchestra.co.uk
Saturday 6th March 2021 - The Gerry Colvin Band
Nailsea Folk Club, The Tithe Barn, Nailsea BS48 4NG: Saturday 6th March 2021
Bristol Folk House, Park Street, Bristol BS1 5JG: Saturday 18th September 2021
Barrow-born Gerry Colvin has enjoyed a varied career in the music business - from his early days in the 1970's with a band called 'The Man Upstairs' (who toured with The Smiths) through the legendary John Peel favourite skiffle-cowpunk indie outfit 'Terry & Gerry' to his work in the early 1990's Gerry worked in Nashville as a professional songwriter and co-writing with Alison Moyet.
In 1993 Gerry formed the folk-pop band 'The Atlantics': they toured extensively including a slot at Glastonbury and in 1995 he co-founded the five piece folk band Colvinquarmby. They released six critically acclaimed albums and were voted best band at the prestigious Fairport Convention Cropredy Festival in 2009. In 2015 the original line-up of Terry and Gerry reformed and toured nationally with rock heroes Status Quo culminating with a concert at The Albert Hall!!
In 2013 Gerry released a self-penned solo album 'Jazz Tales of Country Folk' . His latest CD 'Six of One half a Dozen of the Other', a collection of ten(!) brand new songs, is available now.
For tickets and further information www.gerrycolvin.co.uk
Bristol Folk House, Park Street, Bristol BS1 5JG: Saturday 18th September 2021
Barrow-born Gerry Colvin has enjoyed a varied career in the music business - from his early days in the 1970's with a band called 'The Man Upstairs' (who toured with The Smiths) through the legendary John Peel favourite skiffle-cowpunk indie outfit 'Terry & Gerry' to his work in the early 1990's Gerry worked in Nashville as a professional songwriter and co-writing with Alison Moyet.
In 1993 Gerry formed the folk-pop band 'The Atlantics': they toured extensively including a slot at Glastonbury and in 1995 he co-founded the five piece folk band Colvinquarmby. They released six critically acclaimed albums and were voted best band at the prestigious Fairport Convention Cropredy Festival in 2009. In 2015 the original line-up of Terry and Gerry reformed and toured nationally with rock heroes Status Quo culminating with a concert at The Albert Hall!!
In 2013 Gerry released a self-penned solo album 'Jazz Tales of Country Folk' . His latest CD 'Six of One half a Dozen of the Other', a collection of ten(!) brand new songs, is available now.
For tickets and further information www.gerrycolvin.co.uk
Tuesday 9th March 2021 - The Fureys
The Mill Arts Centre, Spiceball Park, Banbury OX16 5QE: Tuesday 9th March 2021
The Fureys have been entertaining audiences worldwide for 43 years, audiences that have included former Australian Prime Minister John Howard, Former Irish President Mary McAleese and the late Pope John Paul while Tony Blair has publicly stated his favourite peace song of all time is the Fureys' “Green Fields of France” and Ireland's President Michael D Higgins attended their last concert in National Concert Hall.
The oldest of the brothers, Eddie Furey left home in 1966 and travelled to Scotland at the time of the great folk revival where he shared accommodation with then unknown folk singers Billy Connolly, Gerry Rafferty and Alex Campbell. In 1969 with his brother Finbar, he was the special guest for the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem throughout the USA and Canada. In 1971 he moved to mainland Europe where he toured for seven years. Dave Stewart from the Eurythmics has credited Eddie with teaching him his first chords on guitar when they met up in the North East of England while Dave was still a teenager.
For tickets and further information visit www.themillartscentre.co.uk
The Fureys have been entertaining audiences worldwide for 43 years, audiences that have included former Australian Prime Minister John Howard, Former Irish President Mary McAleese and the late Pope John Paul while Tony Blair has publicly stated his favourite peace song of all time is the Fureys' “Green Fields of France” and Ireland's President Michael D Higgins attended their last concert in National Concert Hall.
The oldest of the brothers, Eddie Furey left home in 1966 and travelled to Scotland at the time of the great folk revival where he shared accommodation with then unknown folk singers Billy Connolly, Gerry Rafferty and Alex Campbell. In 1969 with his brother Finbar, he was the special guest for the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem throughout the USA and Canada. In 1971 he moved to mainland Europe where he toured for seven years. Dave Stewart from the Eurythmics has credited Eddie with teaching him his first chords on guitar when they met up in the North East of England while Dave was still a teenager.
For tickets and further information visit www.themillartscentre.co.uk
Tuesday 16th March 2021 - Daria Kulesh
Great Knight Folk Club, The Old White Hart, Northampton NN4 8BS: Tuesday 16th March 2021
With her striking voice and strong Russian and Ingush heritage, "bold, exotic, impressive" Daria Kulesh is a rising star and a unique character on the UK folk scene. Her debut album Eternal Child was described as "phenomenal" and named Runner-Up in "Best Album of 2015 from a Female Artist" by FolkWords, among numerous other accolades.
Her 2017 album Long Lost Home has won awards in the UK and in Russia, including Laurel Canyon Music's Album of the Year. It has enjoyed national radio play and incredible reviews calling it a "triumph", a "masterpiece" and "a definite contender for the best album of 2017". Mike Harding praised the The Moon and the Pilot as "one of the most beautiful new songs of the last ten years".
A hardworking and in-demand live performer, Daria offers her audiences a thoroughly engaging, entertaining and enchanting experience.
For tickets and further information visit www.daria-kulesh.co.uk/gigs
With her striking voice and strong Russian and Ingush heritage, "bold, exotic, impressive" Daria Kulesh is a rising star and a unique character on the UK folk scene. Her debut album Eternal Child was described as "phenomenal" and named Runner-Up in "Best Album of 2015 from a Female Artist" by FolkWords, among numerous other accolades.
Her 2017 album Long Lost Home has won awards in the UK and in Russia, including Laurel Canyon Music's Album of the Year. It has enjoyed national radio play and incredible reviews calling it a "triumph", a "masterpiece" and "a definite contender for the best album of 2017". Mike Harding praised the The Moon and the Pilot as "one of the most beautiful new songs of the last ten years".
A hardworking and in-demand live performer, Daria offers her audiences a thoroughly engaging, entertaining and enchanting experience.
For tickets and further information visit www.daria-kulesh.co.uk/gigs
Wednesday 21st April 2021 - The Roving Crows
The Globe, Newport Street, Hay-on-Wye HR3 5BG: Wednesday 21st April 2021
Chapel Arts Centre, Lower Borough Walls, Bath BA1: Friday 11th June 2021
Roving Crows have been carving out their niche in the UK folk music scene since early 2009. Over the years and evolving incarnations Roving Crows have cultivated an arresting, singular sound that pushes the boundaries of the Celtic Folk genre.
The band play with genuine passion, energy and soul. Vital and vibrant, a must-see live act who showcase a mix of fiery, Celtic-inspired fiddle, conscious, intelligent lyrics, backed by pounding tribal rhythms and electronica infused dance grooves. Roving Crows comprises; Lead vocals from Paul O’Neill and Caitlin Barrett, Paul’s electric and acoustic guitars, Caitlin’s fiddle, Loz Shaw on electric 5 and 6 string bass, keyboards, guitars and clarinet, and pumping percussion from Tim Downes-Hall.
The band have created three albums; ‘Bacchanalia’ 2012, ‘Deliberate Distractions’ 2013 and the latest, ‘Bury Me Naked’ which was released in Spring 2017 and to critical acclaim from across the world.
For tickets and further information visit rovingcrows.com
Chapel Arts Centre, Lower Borough Walls, Bath BA1: Friday 11th June 2021
Roving Crows have been carving out their niche in the UK folk music scene since early 2009. Over the years and evolving incarnations Roving Crows have cultivated an arresting, singular sound that pushes the boundaries of the Celtic Folk genre.
The band play with genuine passion, energy and soul. Vital and vibrant, a must-see live act who showcase a mix of fiery, Celtic-inspired fiddle, conscious, intelligent lyrics, backed by pounding tribal rhythms and electronica infused dance grooves. Roving Crows comprises; Lead vocals from Paul O’Neill and Caitlin Barrett, Paul’s electric and acoustic guitars, Caitlin’s fiddle, Loz Shaw on electric 5 and 6 string bass, keyboards, guitars and clarinet, and pumping percussion from Tim Downes-Hall.
The band have created three albums; ‘Bacchanalia’ 2012, ‘Deliberate Distractions’ 2013 and the latest, ‘Bury Me Naked’ which was released in Spring 2017 and to critical acclaim from across the world.
For tickets and further information visit rovingcrows.com
Saturday 22nd May 2021 - Dan Walsh
Under The Edge Arts, Chipping Hall, Wotton-under-Edge, GL12 7AF : Saturday 22nd May 2021
A BBC Radio 2 Folk Musician Of The Year nominee and regarded as one of the finest banjo players in the UK Dan Walsh is also a superb singer, songwriter and guitarist who has been described as 'the real deal' (UNCUT).
As well as many tours of the UK, he also has recent successful trips to USA, Canada, Germany, India, Norway and New Zealand to his credit. Describing what Dan does is no easy task but at the heart of it is British, Irish and American folk music delivered with a healthy dose of funky grooves - all performed with his unique and dazzling take on clawhammer style banjo.
Add to all that poignant songs, astonishing musical departures and lively humour and the result is a truly memorable live show which has wowed audiences across the world from intimate seated rooms to huge dancing crowds in festival fields.
For tickets and more information visit www.utea.org.uk
A BBC Radio 2 Folk Musician Of The Year nominee and regarded as one of the finest banjo players in the UK Dan Walsh is also a superb singer, songwriter and guitarist who has been described as 'the real deal' (UNCUT).
As well as many tours of the UK, he also has recent successful trips to USA, Canada, Germany, India, Norway and New Zealand to his credit. Describing what Dan does is no easy task but at the heart of it is British, Irish and American folk music delivered with a healthy dose of funky grooves - all performed with his unique and dazzling take on clawhammer style banjo.
Add to all that poignant songs, astonishing musical departures and lively humour and the result is a truly memorable live show which has wowed audiences across the world from intimate seated rooms to huge dancing crowds in festival fields.
For tickets and more information visit www.utea.org.uk
Saturday 29th May 2021 - Sarah McQuaid
Under The Edge Arts, Chipping Hall, Wotton-under-Edge, GL12 7AF: Saturday 29th May 2021
The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX: Tuesday 16th November 2021
Honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Ards International Guitar Festival in Northern Ireland (2017), Sarah McQuaid has also drawn critical praise for her voice and her engaging rapport with audience.
With the release of her most recent album, If We Dig Any Deeper It Could Get Dangerous, the Madrid-born, Chicago-raised, Cornwall-based singer/songwriter has expanded her battery of instruments to include piano, electric guitar and drum, and it’s drawn critical raves internationally.
Dutch music magazine Heaven hailed it as “an early contender for folk album of 2018,” the UK’s fRoots said it was “a collection to savour” and the USA’s PopMatters called it “a gateway into a true innovator’s soul," and FolkWords called it “A work of formidable passion.”
For more information and full tour dates visit www.sarahmcquaid.com
The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX: Tuesday 16th November 2021
Honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Ards International Guitar Festival in Northern Ireland (2017), Sarah McQuaid has also drawn critical praise for her voice and her engaging rapport with audience.
With the release of her most recent album, If We Dig Any Deeper It Could Get Dangerous, the Madrid-born, Chicago-raised, Cornwall-based singer/songwriter has expanded her battery of instruments to include piano, electric guitar and drum, and it’s drawn critical raves internationally.
Dutch music magazine Heaven hailed it as “an early contender for folk album of 2018,” the UK’s fRoots said it was “a collection to savour” and the USA’s PopMatters called it “a gateway into a true innovator’s soul," and FolkWords called it “A work of formidable passion.”
For more information and full tour dates visit www.sarahmcquaid.com
Friday 18th June 2021 - India Electric Company
Downend Folk Club, Frenchay Village Hall, Downend BS16 1NU: Friday 18th June 2021
India Electric Company are perhaps best described as “a veritable musical magpie’s nest”, BBC Radio 3. Blending traditional instruments, folk melodies and subtle electronic influences, they’ve extensively toured throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand, including UK shows at The London Palladium and Hammersmith Apollo.
After live sessions with BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music, Glastonbury Festival appearances and BBC Introducing’s backing they released The Gap in 2020 with FRUK declaring them “one of the truly pioneering acts in folk music”
India Electric Company were one of the first acts to play at Downend Folk Club, and make a welcome return to one of the most popular music venues in the area.
For tickets and further information visit www.downendfolkclub.co.uk
India Electric Company are perhaps best described as “a veritable musical magpie’s nest”, BBC Radio 3. Blending traditional instruments, folk melodies and subtle electronic influences, they’ve extensively toured throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand, including UK shows at The London Palladium and Hammersmith Apollo.
After live sessions with BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music, Glastonbury Festival appearances and BBC Introducing’s backing they released The Gap in 2020 with FRUK declaring them “one of the truly pioneering acts in folk music”
India Electric Company were one of the first acts to play at Downend Folk Club, and make a welcome return to one of the most popular music venues in the area.
For tickets and further information visit www.downendfolkclub.co.uk
Saturday 17th July 2021 - Richard Thompson
Stratford Playhouse, Rother Market, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 6LU: Saturday 17th July 2021
Since co-founding Fairport Convention in 1967, guitarist Richard Thompson has had one of the most decorated careers in music. He’s received an OBE and Lifetime Achievement Awards from the BBC, the Ivor Novellos and Nashville’s Americana awards. Thompson began his recording career with Fairport Convention in 1967 before leaving in 1971. His first solo record Henry The Human Fly came out the next year, with a woman called Linda Peters appearing on vocals. She was soon Linda Thompson and together the Thompsons released six albums between 1974 and 1982.
Throughout the 80s, 90s and 00s, Thompson released one critically acclaimed album after another, amassing generation upon generation of new fans. Last year’s 13 Rivers was described by Pop Matters as “a raw, unfiltered affair from a veteran artist who shows no signs of slowing down,” and anyone who has seen him live recently will know what they mean.
Tickets and further information www.stratfordplay.co.uk
Since co-founding Fairport Convention in 1967, guitarist Richard Thompson has had one of the most decorated careers in music. He’s received an OBE and Lifetime Achievement Awards from the BBC, the Ivor Novellos and Nashville’s Americana awards. Thompson began his recording career with Fairport Convention in 1967 before leaving in 1971. His first solo record Henry The Human Fly came out the next year, with a woman called Linda Peters appearing on vocals. She was soon Linda Thompson and together the Thompsons released six albums between 1974 and 1982.
Throughout the 80s, 90s and 00s, Thompson released one critically acclaimed album after another, amassing generation upon generation of new fans. Last year’s 13 Rivers was described by Pop Matters as “a raw, unfiltered affair from a veteran artist who shows no signs of slowing down,” and anyone who has seen him live recently will know what they mean.
Tickets and further information www.stratfordplay.co.uk
Thursday 22nd July 2021 - Dean Friedman
The Barn, Black Boy Inn, Wyre Hill, Bewdley DY12 2UE: Thursday 22nd July 2021
Dean Friedman first marked his entry into pop consciousness with the Top 20 chart success of his infectious hit single, Ariel, a quirkily irresistible and uncategorizable pop song about a free spirited, pot-smoking, vegetarian Jewish girl in a peasant blouse who lived, as the lyric goes, "...way on the other side of the Hudson".
Friedman scored again with the release of his follow up album, “Well, Well,” Said the Rocking Chair’, and the now classic hit single, Lucky Stars. This magical duet, performed with singer, Denise Marsa, zoomed to the top of the UK singles charts, going instantly gold. Lucky Stars paved the way for a slew of Friedman hits, including familiar radio staples such as Lydia, Rocking Chair, McDonald’s Girl and Woman of Mine.
Friedman’s consummate songwriting and performing, have earned him a loyal international following, devoted to the sophisticated, funny and profound work of a master songsmith.
For more information and full UK tour dates, visit www.deanfriedman.com
Dean Friedman first marked his entry into pop consciousness with the Top 20 chart success of his infectious hit single, Ariel, a quirkily irresistible and uncategorizable pop song about a free spirited, pot-smoking, vegetarian Jewish girl in a peasant blouse who lived, as the lyric goes, "...way on the other side of the Hudson".
Friedman scored again with the release of his follow up album, “Well, Well,” Said the Rocking Chair’, and the now classic hit single, Lucky Stars. This magical duet, performed with singer, Denise Marsa, zoomed to the top of the UK singles charts, going instantly gold. Lucky Stars paved the way for a slew of Friedman hits, including familiar radio staples such as Lydia, Rocking Chair, McDonald’s Girl and Woman of Mine.
Friedman’s consummate songwriting and performing, have earned him a loyal international following, devoted to the sophisticated, funny and profound work of a master songsmith.
For more information and full UK tour dates, visit www.deanfriedman.com
Thursday 22nd July 2021 - Jim Moray
Chapel Arts Centre, Lower Borough Walls, Bath BA1 1QR: Thursday 22nd July 2021
Jim Moray is amongst England’s finest interpreters of traditional song. His relentlessly innovative recordings can truly be said to have changed the sound of folk music since the early 2000s, and he has won fans and admirers far outside of the folk scene without ever betraying his traditional roots.His relentlessly innovative recordings can truly be said to have changed the sound of folk music since the early 2000s, and he has won fans and admirers far outside of the folk scene without ever betraying his traditional roots.
A five-time BBC Folk Award winner, his songs have been featured in a season finale of Grey’s Anatomy, he has appeared on-screen singing a specially composed song for Dr Who spin-off Class as aliens attack the earth, and he has presented documentaries on traditional music for BBC Radio 3.
His latest album The Outlander was recorded Sam Sweeney on violin, and Jim playing the 1949 Epiphone Triumph archtop guitar he bought just before the recording sessions.
For tickets and further details visit jimmoray.co.uk/tour-dates
Jim Moray is amongst England’s finest interpreters of traditional song. His relentlessly innovative recordings can truly be said to have changed the sound of folk music since the early 2000s, and he has won fans and admirers far outside of the folk scene without ever betraying his traditional roots.His relentlessly innovative recordings can truly be said to have changed the sound of folk music since the early 2000s, and he has won fans and admirers far outside of the folk scene without ever betraying his traditional roots.
A five-time BBC Folk Award winner, his songs have been featured in a season finale of Grey’s Anatomy, he has appeared on-screen singing a specially composed song for Dr Who spin-off Class as aliens attack the earth, and he has presented documentaries on traditional music for BBC Radio 3.
His latest album The Outlander was recorded Sam Sweeney on violin, and Jim playing the 1949 Epiphone Triumph archtop guitar he bought just before the recording sessions.
For tickets and further details visit jimmoray.co.uk/tour-dates
Thursday 30th September 2021 - Eddi Reader
St Barnabas Church, St Barnabas Street, Jericho, Oxford OX2 6BG: Thursday 30th September 2021
St Georges, Great George Street, Bristol BS1 5RR: Wednesday 7th October 2021
Eddi Reader is perhaps Scotland's greatest living female voice. In 2020, she celebrates her 40th year on stage with the ‘40 Years Live’ concert tour.From her earliest years playing the folk clubs of western Scotland and learning how to street sing across Europe (like her hero Edith Piaf) Eddi's path soon lead her to a professional career in music as a backing singer for Eurythmics and Gang of Four. Her band Fairground Attraction had huge international success and number one hits with ‘Perfect’ and debut album ‘First of a Million Kisses’ which stormed the charts in the mid 1980's. She has won Brit Awards, been awarded four honorary degrees, an MBE, sung to millions on some of the world's greatest concert and festival stages and collaborated with a host of stars across a myriad of genres including Folk, Jazz, Pop, World, Punk and even Classical work with various orchestras.
2020's ‘40 Years Live’ concerts promise to be something special, as with any Eddi Reader concert, the magic is being made in the moment, no two concerts ever the same.
For tickets and full tour dates visit eddireader.co.uk
St Georges, Great George Street, Bristol BS1 5RR: Wednesday 7th October 2021
Eddi Reader is perhaps Scotland's greatest living female voice. In 2020, she celebrates her 40th year on stage with the ‘40 Years Live’ concert tour.From her earliest years playing the folk clubs of western Scotland and learning how to street sing across Europe (like her hero Edith Piaf) Eddi's path soon lead her to a professional career in music as a backing singer for Eurythmics and Gang of Four. Her band Fairground Attraction had huge international success and number one hits with ‘Perfect’ and debut album ‘First of a Million Kisses’ which stormed the charts in the mid 1980's. She has won Brit Awards, been awarded four honorary degrees, an MBE, sung to millions on some of the world's greatest concert and festival stages and collaborated with a host of stars across a myriad of genres including Folk, Jazz, Pop, World, Punk and even Classical work with various orchestras.
2020's ‘40 Years Live’ concerts promise to be something special, as with any Eddi Reader concert, the magic is being made in the moment, no two concerts ever the same.
For tickets and full tour dates visit eddireader.co.uk
Tuesday 2nd November 2021 - Edgelarks
The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX: Tuesday 2nd November 2021
Edgelarks (Phillip Henry and Hannah Martin) embark on another tour of the unusual and adventurous. Combining exquisite folk with influences as diverse as blues, Indian classical, and beatboxing, the BBC Folk Award winners are taking their show to some equally special places. The pair take their strong roots sound, mixing original song-writing with stomping beatbox harmonica, soaring fiddle and vocal harmonies, running wilder with each repeat play.
A busy collaborative period has included work as part of the Gigspanner Big Band (featuring members of Bellowhead and Steeleye Span); and performing at BBC Radio Two’s Festival In A Day to a Hyde Park crowd of 50,000 – supporting Kylie Minogue!
They are now leaving the beaten track firmly behind them, and would love you to join them for this celebration of hidden gems, extraordinary venues, and uncommon concerts.
Tickets and further information from www.rosestheatre.org/events
Edgelarks (Phillip Henry and Hannah Martin) embark on another tour of the unusual and adventurous. Combining exquisite folk with influences as diverse as blues, Indian classical, and beatboxing, the BBC Folk Award winners are taking their show to some equally special places. The pair take their strong roots sound, mixing original song-writing with stomping beatbox harmonica, soaring fiddle and vocal harmonies, running wilder with each repeat play.
A busy collaborative period has included work as part of the Gigspanner Big Band (featuring members of Bellowhead and Steeleye Span); and performing at BBC Radio Two’s Festival In A Day to a Hyde Park crowd of 50,000 – supporting Kylie Minogue!
They are now leaving the beaten track firmly behind them, and would love you to join them for this celebration of hidden gems, extraordinary venues, and uncommon concerts.
Tickets and further information from www.rosestheatre.org/events
