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.
Monday 15th February 2021 - Steve Knightley
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
Neeld Community Arts Centre, High Street, Chippenham SN15 3ER: Thursday 23rd September 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
Westbury Village Hall, Eastfield Road, Westbury-on-Trym BS9 4AG: Saturday 20th March 2021
Neeld Community Arts Centre, High Street, Chippenham SN15 3ER: Thursday 23rd September 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 13th March 2021 - Phil Beer
Ace Space, St Nicholas Road, Newbury RG14 5PR: Saturday 13th March 2021
The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX: Thursday 18th March 2021
The Painswick Centre, Bisley Street, Painswick GL5: Saturday 18th September 2021
Chapel Arts Centre, Lower Borough Walls, Bath BA1 1QR: Saturday 23rd September 2021
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 Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX: Thursday 18th March 2021
The Painswick Centre, Bisley Street, Painswick GL5: Saturday 18th September 2021
Chapel Arts Centre, Lower Borough Walls, Bath BA1 1QR: Saturday 23rd September 2021
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
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 Theatre, Spring Street, Chipping Norton OX7 5NL: Monday 26th April 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.thefureys.com
The Theatre, Spring Street, Chipping Norton OX7 5NL: Monday 26th April 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.thefureys.com
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
Thursday 25th March 2021 - Katie Grace Harris, Colin Pitts, Mike Weaver
Evesham Town Hall, Vine Street, Evesham WR11 4RL: Thursday 25th March 2021
First performing in folk clubs while a student in Swansea in the late ‘60's, Colin became a very popular performer in Midlands folk circles in the first half of the 1970's. Colin, who lives in Evehsam, re-emerged as a singer/songwriter in the 1990's with a reputation for writing songs that sometimes make you think, sometimes make you laugh and sometimes just make you feel good.
After a break of many years, Worcestershire-based Mike Weaver returned to songwriting and live performances in 2013, and has since opened for many well-known acts on the contemporary folk circuits, as well as headlining his own shows and appearing at festivals in the Midlands and West Country. His new album Too Soon It's Time to Fly was released last September.
Katie Grace Harris, who hails from Oxfordshire, will be launching her own EP of traditional and self-penned songs this Spring. An accomplished pianist and multi-instrumentalist, she is a much respected singer who has collaborated with some of the UK's top performers.
For tickets and further details visit eveshamlive.co.uk
First performing in folk clubs while a student in Swansea in the late ‘60's, Colin became a very popular performer in Midlands folk circles in the first half of the 1970's. Colin, who lives in Evehsam, re-emerged as a singer/songwriter in the 1990's with a reputation for writing songs that sometimes make you think, sometimes make you laugh and sometimes just make you feel good.
After a break of many years, Worcestershire-based Mike Weaver returned to songwriting and live performances in 2013, and has since opened for many well-known acts on the contemporary folk circuits, as well as headlining his own shows and appearing at festivals in the Midlands and West Country. His new album Too Soon It's Time to Fly was released last September.
Katie Grace Harris, who hails from Oxfordshire, will be launching her own EP of traditional and self-penned songs this Spring. An accomplished pianist and multi-instrumentalist, she is a much respected singer who has collaborated with some of the UK's top performers.
For tickets and further details visit eveshamlive.co.uk
Thursday 15th April 2021 - Harbottle & Jonas
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
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
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
Thursday 22nd April 2021 - Sarah McQuaid
Evesham Town Hall, Vine Street, Evesham WR11 4RL: Thursday 22nd April 2021
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
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
Saturday 1st May 2021 - The Budapest Café Orchestra
The Market Theatre, Market Street, Ledbury HR8 2AQ: Saturday 1st May 2021
The Crooked Billet, Newlands Lane, Stoke Row RG9 5PU: Monday 3rd May 2021
The Theatre, Spring Street, Chipping Norton OX7 5NL: Thursday 1st July 2021
The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes MK17 8LU: Thursday 8th July 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 Crooked Billet, Newlands Lane, Stoke Row RG9 5PU: Monday 3rd May 2021
The Theatre, Spring Street, Chipping Norton OX7 5NL: Thursday 1st July 2021
The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes MK17 8LU: Thursday 8th July 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
Sunday 15th May 2021 - Brooks Williams
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 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
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
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
Wednesday 29th September 2021 - Kathryn Tickell & The Darkening
The Theatre, Spring Street, Chipping Norton OX7 5NL: Wednesday 29th September 2021
Kathryn and musicians from Northumberland, Scotland and England invoke the dark, powerful, shamanic sounds of Ancient Northumbria and broadcast them to the modern world. Their inspiration comes from the wild, dramatic, weather-bitten countryside along Hadrian’s Wall, which seems so quintessentially Northumbrian…and yet, almost 2000 years ago that same landscape was inhabited by people from around the world, worshipping different gods and following different customs.Kathryn Tickell & The Darkening embrace that global perspective, bringing some of the oldest Northumbrian tunes and songs throbbing to life, intermingling them with new material and binding it all together with contemporary resonance and attitude.
Fresh sounds merge with ancient influences. Expansive sonic textures are created. Dazzling duets from Kathryn’s pipes and Amy’s accordion contrast with the dark and dirty riffs and rhythms of Kieran’s octave mandolin. Intrepid world-traveller Kate adds her fearless explorations and the inventive use of drums and percussion unites the ensemble.
For tickets and further information visit www.chippingnortontheatre.com
Kathryn and musicians from Northumberland, Scotland and England invoke the dark, powerful, shamanic sounds of Ancient Northumbria and broadcast them to the modern world. Their inspiration comes from the wild, dramatic, weather-bitten countryside along Hadrian’s Wall, which seems so quintessentially Northumbrian…and yet, almost 2000 years ago that same landscape was inhabited by people from around the world, worshipping different gods and following different customs.Kathryn Tickell & The Darkening embrace that global perspective, bringing some of the oldest Northumbrian tunes and songs throbbing to life, intermingling them with new material and binding it all together with contemporary resonance and attitude.
Fresh sounds merge with ancient influences. Expansive sonic textures are created. Dazzling duets from Kathryn’s pipes and Amy’s accordion contrast with the dark and dirty riffs and rhythms of Kieran’s octave mandolin. Intrepid world-traveller Kate adds her fearless explorations and the inventive use of drums and percussion unites the ensemble.
For tickets and further information visit www.chippingnortontheatre.com
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
Saturday 29th January 2022 - Martyn Joseph
The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes MK17 8LU: Saturday 29th January 2022
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
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
