February 2009 Events Guide
Please bear in mind that every effort is made to ensure that the details below are accurate, however some events are cancelled/sell out etc so please check with the venues/clubs before travelling long distances. Please email us to include your event listings and these will be added as soon as possible.
To return to the main events guide and for events this month click here
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Sunday 1st February 2009
Singers/Musicians Night at Wheal Dream Folk Club, Wheal Dream Restaurant and Free House, Wendron, Helston, Cornwall
All Welcome
John Conolly at Topsham Folk Club, Topsham, Devon
"internationally respected singer-songwriter, whose compositions, such as the classic ‘Fiddlers' Green’ and ‘Punch and Judy Man’ are known and loved all over the world."
Claude Bourbon at The Three Lions, 55 Meadrow, Godalming, Surrey
"Acoustic blues guitar playing just doesn't come much better than this!"
Blueprint Magazine
 The Bowmans and Adriana at The Green Note, Camden, London
"Brooklyn-based folk twins, Claire and Sarah Bowman, have announced UK dates for January and February 2009. The sisters, whose album Far From Home was released earlier this year on Continental Song City, have emerged as one of the Big Apple’s brightest new bands and are regularly playing to sell out crowds in the city. Their catchy, rootsy brand of folk has endeared them to the legendary producer Malcolm Burn (Emmylou Harris, Bob Dylan, Giant Sand) who will be producing the girl’s next album due out in the spring.
The Bowmans’ sound is at once unique and prototypically American. Shades of Americana connect with characteristics of modern singer-songwriters; vaudeville blends with indie-folk; undertones of classical influences meld with loads of rock and roll edge. Though the Bowmans have worked together almost since their birth, they are beginning an enlivening new chapter to their richly musical lives"
"Adriana’s curious slant on the Americana and singer-songwriter genres has proved such a success that she is now regarded as one of the best talents in the independent Scottish music scene. Blending Americana, folk and rock styles and boasting a stunning vocal range, Adriana made headlines in the summer when T in the Park boss Geoff Ellis handpicked her to support Sheryl Crow in the American superstar’s only UK headline date of her tour."
Jackie Oates at Walthamstow Folk Club, Walthamstow, East London
"With her charisma and soulful playing Jackie has become a firmly established performer in the English fiddle-singing tradition. Her fine fiddling and lyrical voice enhance the songs in her mainly traditional repertoire."
Happy Trails at The Yew Tree, Barfreston, nr. Dover, Kent
"The Happy Trails have been playing together in various Cajun, Zydeco, Country and Blues bands for in excess of twenty years.
They all share a lifelong love of the diverse and inspiring musical forms emanating from the Southern States and during the last decade have had the pleasure of experiencing it "for real" during several vacations to Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, Georgia and Alabama."
Steve Knightley at Hitchin Folk Club, Hitchin, Hertfordshire
"The popular Show of Hands frontman takes off on his own tour, showcasing his eagerly awaited new album Track of Words Retraced. He is supported by rising young West Country singer songwriter Jenna, whose acclaimed debut album Barefoot and Eager he produced."
The Henry Brothers at The Geldeston Locks Pub, Geldeston, Near Beccles, Norwich, Norfolk (2:00pm)
Sound like "The Stanley Brothers mixed with a pinch of Americana Folk- close harmony singing & dark tales of love betrayal and murder."
Swarbs Lazarus at The Assembly House, Norwich, Norfolk
"A trio featuring the legendary English fiddler Dave Swarbrick (ex-Fairport Convention, Whippersnapper), known affectionately as Swarb, ace guitarist Kevin Dempsey (Whippersnapper) and multi-instrumentalist Maartin Allcock (ex-Fairport Convention, ex-Jethro Tull). Swarb’s Lazarus play mostly traditional music of the British Isles."
Beck Siàn at Dinas Powys Folk Club, Dinas Powys, Vale of Glamorgan
"Beck Siàn came to the UK, from Australia, in mid 2006 for a six month tour. She hasn't stopped touring here since, and is now happily living in a valley in mid Wales. With a Welsh mother and a father with Irish blood, and a passion for Celtic music, it wasn't surprising that Beck Siàn was going to find herself settling in Wales. Her debut CD 'Unfurling' is continuing to receive rave reviews, and now there is a brand new CD, 'Waltzing Matilda', which highlights the Australian-Celtic musical connection as you've never heard it before."
The Phil Beer Band at Lichfield Arts Centre, Lichfield, Staffordshire
"The dazzling, award-winning multi instrumentalist from the ever popular Show of Hands takes off on a solo tour - with a little help from his friends."
Singers Night at The Bothy Folk Club, Southport, Merseyside
Jeff Davis at Traditions at the Tiger, Long Eaton, Nottingham
"A fine interpreter of traditional song; worth a lot of salt" Sing Out! (USA)
"An excellent banjo frailer and fiddler" The Living Tradition (UK)
Session/Sing at The Scragg End Folk Club, Oakthorpe, nr Swadlincote, Leicestershire
Norcsalordie at The Hind, London Road, Leicester
"Their music is superbly performed, buoyant, catchy and individual. Their stage presence is such that it encourages the audience to take part and ‘buy in to’ their performance and image. That in itself is very rare. They have a unique take on an old fashioned style of music, which makes it both contemporary and engaging"
Gerry McNeice at The Drop Inn, 12 Elland Lane, Elland, West Yorkshire (3:00pm)
A hard to pigeon-hole talent. Gerry's songs are superbly written, show great insight and are subtly melodic. A great purveyor of traditional songs also, Gerry has to be seen! Black Sheep Masham Music Festival programme
Annie Dearman, Vic Gammon & Steve Harrison at South Shields Folk Club, South Shields, Tyne and Wear
Monday 2nd February 2009
The Rude Mechanicals at Brighton Acoustic Session, The Lord Nelson, Trafalgar Street, Brighton, Sussex
"Foot-tapping music for all occasions. Huge repertoire of varied material including original arrangements of traditional folk tunes and new compositions."
Open Night at Herga Folk Club, Pinner, Harrow, West London
Brian Houston + support at Maverick at Zebra, Maidstone, Kent
"Brian Houston is a critically acclaimed songwriter from Belfast known for his conversational pop songcraft. Houston is renowned for his crowd pleasing electrifying live shows."
Andy Smythe at The Fox and Hound Folk Club, Knatts Valley, Kent
Singer Songwriter
Musicians' and Singers' night at Tonbridge Folk Club, Rose and Crown, 125 High Street, Tonbridge, Kent
audience welcome (free admission)
Uiscedwr at Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, Essex
"Funky-folk quartet Uiscedwr is one of Britain's most exciting contemporary bands. Featuring Anna Esslemont on fiddle and vocals with James Hickman on guitar and Karen Tweed on piano accordion, the band's sound is underpinned by Cormac Byrne (of Seth Lakeman band fame) playing the most thrilling percussion you're ever likely to hear.
With awards from the BBC and the PRS Foundation and two highly acclaimed albums under their belt, Uiscedwr's music is fatter, funkier and folkier than ever before. The eclectic repertoire draws on traditions from all over the British isles tempered by influences as diverse as jazz, Latin, blues, and klezmer. Spend an evening with Uiscedwr and travel with them round the world. "
Jeff Davis at The Midway Folk Club, Stockport, Cheshire
"A fine interpreter of traditional song; worth a lot of salt" Sing Out! (USA)
"An excellent banjo frailer and fiddler" The Living Tradition (UK)
Singers and Musicians Night at (Not) The White Horse Folk Club, Beverley, East Yorkshire
Rising Stars at The Bridge Folk Club, Newcastle Upon Tyne
"Rising Stars - Singers Nights
Rising Stars are students on the Folk Degree Course who will start and finish these nights."
Back to Calendar
Monday 3rd Febuary 2009
Sharps Folk Club, Cecil Sharp House, Camden, London
"A friendly, informal sing-around in the bar at Cecil Sharp House"
Informal singaround at Ringwood Folk Club, The Elm Tree Hightown, Ringwood, Hampshire
(tunes, songs and poems)
Jim Page at The Lamb Folk Club, Eastbourne, Sussex
“Every now and again I encounter a singer who gives me a glimmer of hope. Jim Page carries the light.”
- Christy Moore
Vicki Swan and Jonny Dyer at Dartford Folk Club, Dartford, Kent
"Currently taking the world by storm, Vicki and Jonny are rightly “establishing themselves as one of the best young duos around on the folk scene today” (Famous Willows Folk Club). Although best-known for their instrumental skills with Scottish Smallpipes, accordion and even Swedish Nyckelharpa, the duo are well recognised for their songs arrangements too. With their blend of traditional material and contemporary interpretations, they have developed a sound that is both familiar and fresh."
Mawkin Causley at The Hoy at Anchor Folk Club, Leigh on Sea, Essex
"Those wicked Essex rascals, Mawkin, have joined forces with the honey-voiced Jim Causley to form one hell of a boyband! One of the best instrumental outfits to emerge in recent years, Mawkin have a string of festival and concert apperances under their belt. Bringing Jim Causley on board is a master stroke, as his gorgeous baritone voice is the perfect foil for their cleverly textured tunes and energetic performances. A unique collaboration not to be missed."
Shona Kipling & Damien O'Kane at St Neots Folk Club, St Neots, Cambridgeshire
Red Ruth at The Great Knight Folk Club, Northampton
"Formed in Jan 2008 by singer/songwriter Ian Rigg, Red Ruth completed it's final line up in June, when rehearsals for both the live shows and the debut album began in earnest. With a line up of amazing and renowned UK folk musicians, Red Ruth are tipped to be the next big thing on the folk festival scene."
James Hollingsworth at The Bell, 39 Etnam St, Leominster, Herefordshire
"James Hollingsworth’s main stage set on the Saturday afternoon of the festival ranged from what was grounded in the traditional – a voice buzzing in the ear, the familiar plucked guitar – to what seemed to border on the celestial, as both voice and a much effected, but delicately measured, acoustic guitar swept back and forth across the arena. James’ performance was captivating…truly so, as many followed him to the intimate surroundings of the Bar Stage later in the afternoon, where an equally diverse mixture of songs and styles was in evidence." - Abbey Mill Folk Festival, 2006
Justin Townes Earle at The Glee Club, Birmingham
"Like the late Van Zandt, Earle uses a base of acoustic blues and prewar folk to build his own brand of American roots music." Nashville Scene
Singers Night at Belper Folk Club, Belper, Derbyshire
Singers Night at The Brown Cow Folk Club, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
Singers Night at Cramlington Folk Club, The Hind, Dewley, Cramlington, Northumberland
Back to Calendar
Wednesday 4th February 2009
Round the Room at Benbow Folk Club, The Admiral Benbow, Chapel St, Penzance, Cornwall
The Rude Mechanicals at The Ferry Inn, Shoreham, Sussex
"Foot-tapping music for all occasions. Huge repertoire of varied material including original arrangements of traditional folk tunes and new compositions."
Alistair Russell at The Willows Folk Club, Arundel, Sussex
"An exciting solo appearance from this former lead singer of the legendary Battlefield Band, one of Scotland’s finest traditional groups!"
Justin Townes Earle at The Prince Albert, Brighton, Sussex
"Like the late Van Zandt, Earle uses a base of acoustic blues and prewar folk to build his own brand of American roots music." Nashville Scene
Tom McConville at Faversham Folk Club, Faversham, Kent
"Tom is a great player, and a terrific singer, he happens to be a number one bloke too. Tom plays as Tom is, with honesty and passion, and an obvious love for the fiddle and traditional music."
Dave Swarbrick
Linda McRae at The Sheepwalk, Leytonstone, East London
"Linda McRae first gained notoriety during her stint as bassist, accordionist and vocalist with platinum recording artists, roots rockers Spirit of the West, with whom she spent eight years touring, recording and performing internationally.
Since leaving SOTW to resume her solo career, Linda has released three recordings. FlyingJenny (Stony Plain 1997) was produced by Colin Linden, and featured a high powered roster of Canadian talent, including members of The Tragically Hip, Blue Rodeo, Blackie and the Rodeo Kings, Willie P. Bennett, as well as Richard Bell of The Band, Gurf Morlix and Syd Straw. Cryin’ Out Loud (Black Hen 2002) was produced by Gurf Morlix (Lucinda Williams, Ray Wylie Hubbard, Mary Gauthier) and featured her veteran Vancouver band Cheerful Lonesome.
These two widely acclaimed recordings featured Linda's tuneful Country-Folk. She is now working with Manager James Whitmire of Nashville’s 42 Artist Management and her third recording Carve It To The Heart was released in 2007. This is Linda’s sophomore Black Hen release co-produced by Linda and Marc L’Esperance (Po’ Girl, Ray Condo) and showcases the new sound she continues to develop through her love of clawhammer banjo and her associations and collaborations with fellow songwriters"
Arlo Guthrie at The Globe, Cardiff
"Arlo Guthrie was born with a guitar in one hand and a harmonica in the other, in Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York in 1947. He is the eldest son of America's most beloved singer/writer/philosopher Woody Guthrie and he grew up surrounded by dancers and musicians: Pete Seeger, Ronnie Gilbert, Fred Hellerman and Lee Hays (The Weavers), Leadbelly, Cisco Houston, Ramblin' Jack Elliott, Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee, all of whom were significant influences on Arlo's musical career. Guthrie gave his first public performance at age 13 and quickly became involved in the music that was shaping the world during the 1960s. Over the last four decades Guthrie has toured throughout North America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia winning a wide, popular following. In addition to his accomplishments as a musician, Arlo is a natural-born storyteller, whose tales and anecdotes figure prominently in his performances."
Uiscedwr at The Biddulph Arms, Biddulph, Staffordshire
"Funky-folk quartet Uiscedwr is one of Britain's most exciting contemporary bands. Featuring Anna Esslemont on fiddle and vocals with James Hickman on guitar and Karen Tweed on piano accordion, the band's sound is underpinned by Cormac Byrne (of Seth Lakeman band fame) playing the most thrilling percussion you're ever likely to hear.
With awards from the BBC and the PRS Foundation and two highly acclaimed albums under their belt, Uiscedwr's music is fatter, funkier and folkier than ever before. The eclectic repertoire draws on traditions from all over the British isles tempered by influences as diverse as jazz, Latin, blues, and klezmer. Spend an evening with Uiscedwr and travel with them round the world. "
Birmingham Storytelling Session at The Bulls Head, St Mary's Row, Moseley, Birmingham B13 8HW
"A story round, meeting in the first week of the month in an attractive new location, for people who simply want to tell and listen to stories."
The Hut People at Spalding Folk Club, Spalding, Lincolnshire
"accordion and percussion duo.The accordionist is Sam Pirt who plays with 422 who won the Radio 2 folk awards a few years back.Sam is a very experienced musician who is well established in the folk world. He is found throughout the year playing and workshopping in loads of folk festivals.
Gary Hammond is the percussionist, who for the past 12 years has recorded and toured with The Beautiful South. He has worked with Nina Simone and many other groups and set ups within the world music and jazz/pop world. They both have a love of scandinavian, english and european folk tunes which are played with an accordion/multi percussion twist."
Singer’s and Musican’s night at Cottingham Live, Cottingham, East Yorkshire
Pint & Dale at Otley Folk Club, Otley, West Yorkshire
William Pint and Felicia Dale rank among North America's most exciting interpreters of music based in the traditions of the British Isles and France... unconventional but spine-tingling... unique and mesmerizing "
Dirty Linen
The Alison Arms Folk Club at The Alison Arms, Preston Road, Coppull Lancashire
"Everyone is welcome at the Alison Arms Folk singaround, every Wednesday from 8.30ish to midnight. If you play acoustic, sing, dance, recount stories or recite poems you'll get your turn to perform. It isn't compulsory, though. If you just want to come and listen your welcome as long as you applaud until your hands hurt. We meet in an upstairs function room (door to right of bar, left up the stairs and left at the top)"
Anthony John Clarke at The Clarence Folk Club, The Clarence, Preston New Road, Blackpool
The Waverlys at Dunfermline Folk Club, Dunfermline, Fife
"John Berwick, Roy Bain, Murray Wilson, Ian Miller and Dave Smith play pedal steele guitar, dobro, fiddle, banjo, mandola, mandolin, squeeze box, electric and acoustic guitar, harmonica, and all sing. Rooted in folk traditions, they perform great songs, blues, jazz, blue grass and humour."
Steve Turner at Edinburgh Folk Club, The Pleasance Cabaret Bar, 60 The Pleasance, Edinburgh
"A shining example of the music the British folk scene is capable of producing." Froots
Back to Calendar
Thursday 5th February 2009
Tom McConville at Islington Folk Club, Clerkenwell, London
"Tom is a great player, and a terrific singer, he happens to be a number one bloke too. Tom plays as Tom is, with honesty and passion, and an obvious love for the fiddle and traditional music."
Dave Swarbrick
The Icarus Club, Lewisham, South East London
"The Icarus Club is a weekly acoustic event featuring the best in local talent, plus some of the hottest acts doing the rounds in London. A warm and friendly atmosphere awaits you every Thursday at the Station Hotel, 14 Staplehurst Road, Hither Green, London SE13 5BN"
Justin Townes Earle at Saint Bonaventure's Parish Social Club, Bristol
"Like the late Van Zandt, Earle uses a base of acoustic blues and prewar folk to build his own brand of American roots music." Nashville Scene
Steve Knightley at St Peters Church, Marlborough, Wiltshire 01672 512465
"The popular Show of Hands frontman takes off on his own tour, showcasing his eagerly awaited new album Track of Words Retraced. He is supported by rising young West Country singer songwriter Jenna, whose acclaimed debut album Barefoot and Eager he produced."
Jeff Davis at Folk at The Royal Oak, Lewes, Sussex
"A very welcome return visit for one of America's finest performers of traditional songs and tunes on banjo, mandolo, guitar and fiddle."
Tony Carling at The Anchor Folk Club, Blue Anchor Public House, High Road, Byfleet, Surrey
James Hollingsworth at The Man of Kent, 6-8 John Street, Rochester, Kent
"James Hollingsworth’s main stage set on the Saturday afternoon of the festival ranged from what was grounded in the traditional – a voice buzzing in the ear, the familiar plucked guitar – to what seemed to border on the celestial, as both voice and a much effected, but delicately measured, acoustic guitar swept back and forth across the arena. James’ performance was captivating…truly so, as many followed him to the intimate surroundings of the Bar Stage later in the afternoon, where an equally diverse mixture of songs and styles was in evidence." - Abbey Mill Folk Festival, 2006
Roy Bailey at Whitstable Folk Club, Whitstable, Kent
"In many ways Roy can rightly be considered the champion of The People's Music.... His ability to welcome and embrace audiences, whether at large festivals or small clubs in pub back rooms, without compromising the integrity of his personal political vision, is in itself a remarkable quality." Robb Johnson
Uiscedwr at The Arts Centre, Norwich, Norfolk
"Funky-folk quartet Uiscedwr is one of Britain's most exciting contemporary bands. Featuring Anna Esslemont on fiddle and vocals with James Hickman on guitar and Karen Tweed on piano accordion, the band's sound is underpinned by Cormac Byrne (of Seth Lakeman band fame) playing the most thrilling percussion you're ever likely to hear.
With awards from the BBC and the PRS Foundation and two highly acclaimed albums under their belt, Uiscedwr's music is fatter, funkier and folkier than ever before. The eclectic repertoire draws on traditions from all over the British isles tempered by influences as diverse as jazz, Latin, blues, and klezmer. Spend an evening with Uiscedwr and travel with them round the world. "
Singers Night at Maidenhead Folk Club, The 'Seven Stars' PH, Knowl Hill, Nr Maidenhead, Berkshire
Vin Garbutt at Huntingdon Hall, Crowngate, Worcester
"This ‘must-see’ artist who has won a sheaf of Folk Awards and a legion of fans never fails to delight! His songwriting is witty and powerful and tackles thought-provoking issues. He’s an accomplished guitarist and fine whistle player, a zany wit and a superb performer."
Claude Bourbon at Katie Fitzgerald's, 187 Enville Street, Wollaston, Stourbridge, West Midlands
"Acoustic blues guitar playing just doesn't come much better than this!"
Blueprint Magazine
Emma and the Professor at The Nightjar Folk Club, Hereford, Herefordshire
"Powerful Tribal Roots music, drawn from the Marches - with world influences. Their songs are inspired by local folklore and written and performed with a contemporary edge."
Singers' Night at Acoustic Folk at the Nursery, Nursery Inn, Green Lane, Heaton Norris, Stockport, Cheshire
John O'Connell at The Gladstone Theatre, Greendale Road, Port Sunlight, Wirral, Merseyside (Tickets are priced at £12 or £10 concessions and are available from the Theatre's Box Office Telephone 0151 643 8757)
"On the night John O’Connell will be performing some of his original pieces, collaborating with guest musicians and performing some classic Groundpig covers. His new EP will be on sale on the night."
Chris Wood at The Playhouse, Nottingham
"Chris Wood is an uncompromising writer whose music reveals his love for the un-official history of the English speaking people. With gentle intelligence he weaves the tradition with his own contemporary parables, his writing has been said to share the same timeless quality as Richard Thompson at his best."
Tom Kitching & Gren Bartley at The Musician, Leicester
"From deepest Loughborough come Tom Kitching and Gren Bartley. Playing an aromatic hotpot of folk, world and blues from around the globe, this is a great opportunity to catch the pair on their way up. Recently signed by Fellside records, and with a busy festival schedule, the future looks bright. A young folk award finalist 2003, Tom Kitching plays fiddle with a unique flair, adding depth and context to material, drawing on his broad command of styles. Gren Bartley is simply a superstar of the finger style guitar in the making. Leaving audiences flabbergasted with the speed and control of his picking, the sensitivity and variety of his music will draw you deeper in! Together, there’s quite a chemistry"
Singers' and Musicians' Night at The Topic Folk Club, Bradford
"An opportunity for everyone to come along and perform or just listen. Entry free."
Steve Tilston at The Black Swan Folk Club, York
"...that very rare combination of singer, songwriter and guitarist who
actually excels in all departments..." Froots
Emily Smith and Band at The Eastgate Theatre, Peebles, Scottish Borders
"Though only in her mid twenties, award winning Scottish singer and songwriter Emily Smith has firmly established herself as one of Scotland’s leading lights in folk music.
Since becoming BBC Young Traditional Musician of the Year in 2002 Smith has gone on to gain further accolades of ‘Up and Coming Artist of the Year’ nominee (Scots Trad music Awards, 2003) and ‘Scots singer of the Year’ nominee (Scots Trad Music Awards 2005). She gained an Honours degree in Scottish Music at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama and is now not only a respected interpreter of traditional songs but is also gathering interest with her own compelling songwriting."
Stramash at The Star Folk Club, Glasgow
'Not so much a folk group - rather a group of folk'. 'A big-hearted out pouring of traditional music that shared memories with long standing followers, yet speaks engagingly to the uninitiated'. "A bear-hug full of wit, wisdom and vintage music".........The Glasgow Herald.
Steve Turner at Falkirk Folk Club, Smiths Lounge, 23 Baxters Wynd, Falkirk
Back to Calendar
Friday 6th February 2009
World Sounds at Green Note Featuring... Daphna Sadeh and The Voyagers at The Green Note, Camden, London
"Daphna Sadeh stands at the centre of the Purcell Room's stage. The Israeli double bassist is surrounded by an extraordinary array of musicians. On the face of it, this is music of contrasts: Arabic with Jewish, Jazz with tradition, Mediterranean Sephardic Jewish with Eastern European Ashkenazi.The versatile Voyagers are clearly going places, and music lovers would do well to book a ticket." Jamie Renton, fRoots
It is a deep cultural awareness of her roots that informs Daphna Sadeh’s music. She was born into a multicultural society in Israel, where she was exposed to cultures from the Diaspora. She has received her Classical and Jazz music education in New York .
The members of the Voyagers are well established touring and session musicians. The group has performed in various festivals and venues in the UK as well as in Europe . In September 2007 they have released a new CD – Walking the Thin Line and received excellent reviews.
Recently, Daphna Sadeh was commissioned to compose music and record a new CD with the Voyagers for “Tzadik”, the record label from New York , of the renowned Jazz musician John Zorn. The programme for the Green Note will include repertoire from both Walking The Thin Line and the upcoming CD."
Knees Up Cecil Sharp at Cecil Sharp House, Camden, London
"The Knees Up Cecil Sharp ceilidhs provide interesting and energetic evenings of folk dancing. They present a mixture of established and up-and-coming bands mostly playing in the English ceilidh style."
Jeff Davis at Court Sessions, Tooting, South London
"A fine interpreter of traditional song; worth a lot of salt" Sing Out! (USA)
"An excellent banjo frailer and fiddler" The Living Tradition (UK)
Tim Laycock at Bodmin Folk Club, Bodmin, Cornwall
"Tim is a specialist in the songs, traditions and dialect of the West Country, and the poetry and prose of William Barnes and Thomas Hardy. He often gives solo recitals and he appears regularly in schools, performing traditional music and storytelling. His extensive repertoire of folksong forms the basis of the material for The New Scorpion Band."
Swarbs Lazarus at The Arts Centre, Bridgewater, Somerset
"A trio featuring the legendary English fiddler Dave Swarbrick (ex-Fairport Convention, Whippersnapper), known affectionately as Swarb, ace guitarist Kevin Dempsey (Whippersnapper) and multi-instrumentalist Maartin Allcock (ex-Fairport Convention, ex-Jethro Tull). Swarb’s Lazarus play mostly traditional music of the British Isles."
Chris Wood at Nailsea Folk Club, Nailsea, North East Somerset
"Chris Wood is an uncompromising writer whose music reveals his love for the un-official history of the English speaking people. With gentle intelligence he weaves the tradition with his own contemporary parables, his writing has been said to share the same timeless quality as Richard Thompson at his best."
Mick Ryan & Pete Harris at Fo'c'sle Folk Club Folk Club, Southampton, Hampshire
"Mick Ryan is known on the folk scene as a fine singer of traditional and original material. Folk Roots described him as 'definitely the most underrated singer in the country'. Pete Harris (guitar, bouzouki, mandolin, mandola, bass guitar, whistle) has worked with a number of successful bands including The New St. George and Bursledon Village Band and is also a fine solo performer."
Steve Knightley at The Havant Arts, Havant, Hampshire
"The popular Show of Hands frontman takes off on his own tour, showcasing his eagerly awaited new album Track of Words Retraced. He is supported by rising young West Country singer songwriter Jenna, whose acclaimed debut album Barefoot and Eager he produced."
Claude Bourbon at The Bent Brief, Lodge Road, Southampton, Hampshire
"Acoustic blues guitar playing just doesn't come much better than this!"
Blueprint Magazine
James Hollingsworth at The John Harvey Tavern, Bear Yard, Cliffe High Street, Lewes, East Sussex
"James Hollingsworth’s main stage set on the Saturday afternoon of the festival ranged from what was grounded in the traditional – a voice buzzing in the ear, the familiar plucked guitar – to what seemed to border on the celestial, as both voice and a much effected, but delicately measured, acoustic guitar swept back and forth across the arena. James’ performance was captivating…truly so, as many followed him to the intimate surroundings of the Bar Stage later in the afternoon, where an equally diverse mixture of songs and styles was in evidence." - Abbey Mill Folk Festival, 2006
George Papavgeris at
Seaford Folk Club, The Beachcomber, Dane Road, Seaford, East Sussex
The most prolific of creative men; the grandest of hearts and maker of songs that sear into the soul, George is unique, to say the least. His lilting accent lends a fantastic clarity to his delivery that is matched by deceptively simple guitar work. Few have written so many songs that demand your full attention and then insist, in the finest of ways, on staying with you forever. (Graham Searle)
Fran McGillivray & Mike Burke at Orpington Friday Folk, Orpington Liberal Club, Station Road, Orpington, Kent
London based Acoustic Folk and Blues duo
Phil Beer at The Ram Folk Club, Thames Ditton, Surrey
"The dazzling, award-winning multi instrumentalist from the ever popular Show of Hands takes off on a solo tour"
Andy Smythe at The Prince of Wales, High Street, Strood, Rochester, Kent
Singer Songwriter
Tom McConville at Deal Folk Club, Deal, Kent
"Tom is a great player, and a terrific singer, he happens to be a number one bloke too. Tom plays as Tom is, with honesty and passion, and an obvious love for the fiddle and traditional music."
Dave Swarbrick
Russell Grooms at The Wrotham Arms, 9 Ramsgate Rd, Broadstairs, Kent
Vicki Swan and Jonny Dyer at Norwich Folk Club, Norwich, Norfolk
"Currently taking the world by storm, Vicki and Jonny are rightly “establishing themselves as one of the best young duos around on the folk scene today” (Famous Willows Folk Club). Although best-known for their instrumental skills with Scottish Smallpipes, accordion and even Swedish Nyckelharpa, the duo are well recognised for their songs arrangements too. With their blend of traditional material and contemporary interpretations, they have developed a sound that is both familiar and fresh."
The Queensbury Rules at Cambridge Folk Club, Cambridge
"Having spent three years serving their apprenticeship in the folk clubs of Britain, The Queensberry Rules first signified their arrival on the folk circuit with the release of their 2004 album – ‘Heritage and History’. Self produced and released, it contained a collection of songs focusing, in the main, on their home city of Stoke on-Trent. Songs such as ‘The Saggar Makers Bottom Knocker’ and the title track, talked of trade and industry synonymous with the area, whilst ‘Jam Jar Wakes’ dealt with the local traditions. So successful was the album in introducing the band to new audiences, that their burgeoning reputation also alerted the attentions of the Fellside label in Workington, Cumbria. One of the most prolific and well-respected folk record labels in the UK, and home to staples of the scene such as Spiers and Boden, Nancy Kerr and James Fagan, Bram Taylor and Cockersdale, and who also launched the careers of Jez Lowe and John Wright."
Jackie Oates at The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire
"Immersed in traditional music from birth, Jackie Oates made her recording debut on brother Jim Moray’s album Sweet England, and made the finals of BBC Radio 2’s Young Folk Awards later the same year. Appearances at folk clubs, arts centres and festivals followed as a member of Rachel Unthank & The Winterset, alongside solo work, tours with Phil Beer, more recording…"
Navaro at The Finedon Sessions, Finedon Community Centre, Finedon, Northants, NNG 5LG (on the door - £5.00)
"Beth Navaro’s country sound now evolves into something new as she joins forces with singer/songwriters Pete White and Steve Austin . This disparate trio describe themselves as a ‘singers collective’ where the sound is about voices but the song is the star. Beth’s affection for roots music, Pete’s flair for anthemic melodies and Steve’s love of British and American folk all find their place in the NAVARO mix."
Open night at The Valley Folk Club, Ivy Bush Hotel, High Street, Pontardawe, Swansea
"play, recite or just listen and sing choruses."
Tom Kitching & Gren Bartley at The Northwich Folk Club, Northwich, Cheshire
"From deepest Loughborough come Tom Kitching and Gren Bartley. Playing an aromatic hotpot of folk, world and blues from around the globe, this is a great opportunity to catch the pair on their way up. Recently signed by Fellside records, and with a busy festival schedule, the future looks bright. A young folk award finalist 2003, Tom Kitching plays fiddle with a unique flair, adding depth and context to material, drawing on his broad command of styles. Gren Bartley is simply a superstar of the finger style guitar in the making. Leaving audiences flabbergasted with the speed and control of his picking, the sensitivity and variety of his music will draw you deeper in! Together, there’s quite a chemistry"
Flossie Malavialle at Porkies Folk Club, The Royal British Legion, Poynton, Cheshire
“Flossie has a voice as clear and tuneful as a lark, with a pureness of quality to stop you in your tracks in the forest of a song”
Colum Sands
“Flossie’s great! She came over from France and wowed everybody with her sensational voice, her gutsy guitar style, eclectic repertoire and franglais patter” Vin Garbutt
Pint & Dale at Arthur's Bollington Folk Club, Bollington, Cheshire
William Pint and Felicia Dale rank among North America's most exciting interpreters of music based in the traditions of the British Isles and France... unconventional but spine-tingling... unique and mesmerizing "
Dirty Linen
Alan Prosser at The Woodman Folk Club, Kingswinford, West Midlands
The Steve Skaith Band at Folk at the Bivouac, The Bivouac Club, Duke of Wellington, Broadgate, Lincoln
"Steve Skaith was the singer and co-writer of the band Latin Quarter, best known for the 80s hit single –‘Radio Africa’ and their collaboration with the Zimbabwean group, the Bhundu Boys in the 90’s. In 1999 after 6 albums, the band finally split up and Steve went to live in Mexico where he met and formed the Steve Skaith Band with Mexican musicians. They played regularly in that country as well as touring England and Germany 3 times. They produced three albums Mexile (2003), Empires and Us (2005) and Imaginary Friend (2007). These albums mix British folk Rock with Latin and even African sounds and rhythms. They are released on Plaene Records and Westpark Music."
Johnny Coppin & Paul Burgess at The Corn Exhange, Bourne, Lincolnshire
"Johnny Coppin is a singer/songwriter, composer and poetry anthologist. Formerly with the folk-rock band Decameron, his many solo albums include "Forest & Vale & High Blue Hill" (Songs of Gloucestershire), "Edge of Day" - a collaboration with world-famous writer Laurie Lee, "Force of the River", "A Country Christmas" "The Shakespeare Songs" and his most recent albums "Keep the Flame" and "The Winding Stair". His clear voice together with his ability to write fine songs make his music essentially English in character while having universal appeal."
Uiscedwr at The Rock, Maltby, South Yorkshire
"Funky-folk quartet Uiscedwr is one of Britain's most exciting contemporary bands. Featuring Anna Esslemont on fiddle and vocals with James Hickman on guitar and Karen Tweed on piano accordion, the band's sound is underpinned by Cormac Byrne (of Seth Lakeman band fame) playing the most thrilling percussion you're ever likely to hear.
With awards from the BBC and the PRS Foundation and two highly acclaimed albums under their belt, Uiscedwr's music is fatter, funkier and folkier than ever before. The eclectic repertoire draws on traditions from all over the British isles tempered by influences as diverse as jazz, Latin, blues, and klezmer. Spend an evening with Uiscedwr and travel with them round the world. "
Gerry McNeice & friend(s) at Raggalds Acoustic, The Raggalds Inn, Brighouse & Denholme Road, Queensbury, West Yorkshire (8.30pm start and free)
A hard to pigeon-hole talent. Gerry's songs are superbly written, show great insight and are subtly melodic. A great purveyor of traditional songs also, Gerry has to be seen! Black Sheep Masham Music Festival programme
Singers Night at The Grove Folk Club, Leeds
Singers Night at The Baccapipes Folk Club, Keighley, West Yorkshire
Flook at The Met, Bury, Lancashire
"The flutes of Brian Finnegan and Sarah Allen, the guitar of Ed Boyd and the bodhran of John Joe Kelly weave and spin traditionally rooted tunes into the breathtaking sound of the groundbreaking band Flook. This group possesses a rare blend of fiery technical brilliance, delicate ensemble interaction and a bold, adventurous musical imagination."
Singers & Musicians Night - Residents & Visitors at Chillingham Folk Club, Heaton, Newcastle-on-Tyne
Back to Calendar
Saturday 7th February 2009
Jeff Davis at The Cellar Upstairs Folk Club, Euston, London
"A fine interpreter of traditional song; worth a lot of salt" Sing Out! (USA)
"An excellent banjo frailer and fiddler" The Living Tradition (UK)
Sarah McQuaid at Scoriton Village Hall, Scoriton, Buckfastleigh, Devon
"Sarah McQuaid is a singer, guitarist and writer. The author of The Irish DADGAD Guitar Book, she has an exquisite voice and is a terrific guitarist.
Previously resident in Ireland, she has recently relocated to the UK and is appearing at Sidmouth Folk Week & other venues. Singing traditional Irish and some contemporary songs. Her CD 'When Two Lovers Meet.' Is truly wonderful."
Swarbs Lazarus at The Arts Centre, Fareham, Hampshire
"A trio featuring the legendary English fiddler Dave Swarbrick (ex-Fairport Convention, Whippersnapper), known affectionately as Swarb, ace guitarist Kevin Dempsey (Whippersnapper) and multi-instrumentalist Maartin Allcock (ex-Fairport Convention, ex-Jethro Tull). Swarb’s Lazarus play mostly traditional music of the British Isles."
Maggie Sand & Sandragon at Lewes Saturday Folk Club, Lewes, Sussex
"Maggie Sand & Sandragon perform a unique blend of English traditional songs and hi-energy dance tunes from the mediaeval and Renaissance eras, performed on crumhorns, recorders, hurdy-gurdy, harmonium, bouzouki, mandola guitar and percussion."
Steve Knightley at Hailsham Pavilion, Hailsham, Sussex
"The popular Show of Hands frontman takes off on his own tour, showcasing his eagerly awaited new album Track of Words Retraced. He is supported by rising young West Country singer songwriter Jenna, whose acclaimed debut album Barefoot and Eager he produced."
Phil Beer at Footlights, West Chiltington, West Sussex
"The dazzling, award-winning multi instrumentalist from the ever popular Show of Hands takes off on a solo tour"
James Hollingsworth at The Who'd Ha Thought It, 9 Baker Street, Rochester, Kent
"James Hollingsworth’s main stage set on the Saturday afternoon of the festival ranged from what was grounded in the traditional – a voice buzzing in the ear, the familiar plucked guitar – to what seemed to border on the celestial, as both voice and a much effected, but delicately measured, acoustic guitar swept back and forth across the arena. James’ performance was captivating…truly so, as many followed him to the intimate surroundings of the Bar Stage later in the afternoon, where an equally diverse mixture of songs and styles was in evidence." - Abbey Mill Folk Festival, 2006
Moveable Feast at The Wrotham Arms, 9 Ramsgate Rd, Broadstairs, Kent
World Roots & Folk Rock
Ceilidhs and Concert featuring: The Woodpecker Band and Sara Grey, Keiron Means & Ben Paley at Haddenham Village Hall nr Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire
"The Woodpecker Band is well known in the south of England for its coverage of festivals, large regional ceilidhs and smaller local events. The Band has a large repertoire of traditional and modern dance music, mostly from the British Isles, but also including music from other countries. The band's unique sound is a product of traditional and modern elements of music and style fused with a solid electric rhythm section giving the band an easily identifiable contemporary edge."
"Once you have heard Sara Grey you will never forget her. She has a certain quality of voice that compels you to give her your undivided attention. Her voice is both powerful and sweet with a distinctive and lovely tremolo. It is a voice well suited to native American ballads and ballads of Ireland and Scotland"
Brian Houston and Amy Wadge at The Radcliffe Centre, Buckingham, Buckinghamshire
Singer Songwriter Double Header Evening.
Red Ruth at The Cannon, 50 High St, Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire
"Formed in Jan 2008 by singer/songwriter Ian Rigg, Red Ruth completed it's final line up in June, when rehearsals for both the live shows and the debut album began in earnest. With a line up of amazing and renowned UK folk musicians, Red Ruth are tipped to be the next big thing on the folk festival scene."
Uiscedwr at The Mill, Banbury, Oxfordshire
"Funky-folk quartet Uiscedwr is one of Britain's most exciting contemporary bands. Featuring Anna Esslemont on fiddle and vocals with James Hickman on guitar and Karen Tweed on piano accordion, the band's sound is underpinned by Cormac Byrne (of Seth Lakeman band fame) playing the most thrilling percussion you're ever likely to hear.
With awards from the BBC and the PRS Foundation and two highly acclaimed albums under their belt, Uiscedwr's music is fatter, funkier and folkier than ever before. The eclectic repertoire draws on traditions from all over the British isles tempered by influences as diverse as jazz, Latin, blues, and klezmer. Spend an evening with Uiscedwr and travel with them round the world. "
Ron Trueman-Border and The Perfect Strangers at The Saddle, Kimbolton, Cambridgeshire
"Ron employs a wealth of musical forms and influences to produce songs that vividly portray an Everyman's vision of life in the 21st century" Steve Clarke
Vin Garbutt at Newhampton Arts Centre, Wolverhampton
"This ‘must-see’ artist who has won a sheaf of Folk Awards and a legion of fans never fails to delight! His songwriting is witty and powerful and tackles thought-provoking issues. He’s an accomplished guitarist and fine whistle player, a zany wit and a superb performer."
Climax, caller Fee Lock at Stroud Ceilidhs, Sub Rooms, Stroud, Gloucestershire
"The Climax Ceilidh Band pride themselves on their mix of highly original self-written tunes and traditional material, all designed to get feet tapping and dancers stepping. The driving rhythm of the accordion and guitar, the sweet sound of the dancing fiddles, the swift trill of the flute and the power of the pipes make the Climax Ceilidh Band experience truly uplifting!
Fee Lock patience personfied, explains dances so you know you can't get it wrong"
Edwina Hayes at The Half Moon, Elloughton, 61 Main Street, Elloughton, East Yorkshire
'A wonderful young woman, so gifted and full of song, with a voice as sweet as the angels' Nanci Griffith
Emily Smith and Band at The Lochside Theatre, Castle Douglas, Dumfries and Galloway
"Though only in her mid twenties, award winning Scottish singer and songwriter Emily Smith has firmly established herself as one of Scotland’s leading lights in folk music.
Since becoming BBC Young Traditional Musician of the Year in 2002 Smith has gone on to gain further accolades of ‘Up and Coming Artist of the Year’ nominee (Scots Trad music Awards, 2003) and ‘Scots singer of the Year’ nominee (Scots Trad Music Awards 2005). She gained an Honours degree in Scottish Music at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama and is now not only a respected interpreter of traditional songs but is also gathering interest with her own compelling songwriting."
Free Ceilidh at Lauries Acoustic Bar, Glasgow
Back to Calendar
Sunday 8th February 2009
Pete Coe at Walthamstow Folk Club, Walthamstow, East London
"One of the cornerstones of the British Folk scene. Singer, songwriter, melodeon, banjo, dulcimer and bouzouki player, bandleader, arranger, broadcaster, dance caller, teacher, step dancer, entrepreneur, folk club organiser, record label boss, sallow-faced wit, raconteur and all-round good guy"
Claude Bourbon at The Half Moon, Putney, West London
"Acoustic blues guitar playing just doesn't come much better than this!"
Blueprint Magazine
Pete Morton at Twickfolk, The Cabbage Patch, Twickenham, West London
Pete Morton's songs are “an unruly mix of humour, politics, love and social comment, wrapping their way around the folk tradition.”
Jim Reynolds at The Wellington. Horfield, Bristol
"Legendary songwriter, guitarist & singer of blues, ragtime and old fashioned ballads"
Tom Kitching & Gren Bartley at Folk on the Moor, Lee Mill, Devon
"From deepest Loughborough come Tom Kitching and Gren Bartley. Playing an aromatic hotpot of folk, world and blues from around the globe, this is a great opportunity to catch the pair on their way up. Recently signed by Fellside records, and with a busy festival schedule, the future looks bright. A young folk award finalist 2003, Tom Kitching plays fiddle with a unique flair, adding depth and context to material, drawing on his broad command of styles. Gren Bartley is simply a superstar of the finger style guitar in the making. Leaving audiences flabbergasted with the speed and control of his picking, the sensitivity and variety of his music will draw you deeper in! Together, there’s quite a chemistry"
Tom McConville at Horsham Folk Club, Horsham, Surrey
"Tom is a great player, and a terrific singer, he happens to be a number one bloke too. Tom plays as Tom is, with honesty and passion, and an obvious love for the fiddle and traditional music."
Dave Swarbrick
Steve Knightley at Hanger Farm Arts Centre, Southampton, Hampshire
"The popular Show of Hands frontman takes off on his own tour, showcasing his eagerly awaited new album Track of Words Retraced. He is supported by rising young West Country singer songwriter Jenna, whose acclaimed debut album Barefoot and Eager he produced."
Rosa's Daughters at Reading Folk Club, Reading, Berkshire
Rosa's daughters, Marie Rice and Suzi Zeffert a harmony duo who play between them a selection of instruments ancient and modern.
Singers/Musicians Night at Wheal Dream Folk Club, Wheal Dream Restaurant and Free House, Wendron, Helston, Cornwall
All Welcome
Swarbs Lazarus at Hitchin Folk Club, Hitchin, Hertfordshire
"A trio featuring the legendary English fiddler Dave Swarbrick (ex-Fairport Convention, Whippersnapper), known affectionately as Swarb, ace guitarist Kevin Dempsey (Whippersnapper) and multi-instrumentalist Maartin Allcock (ex-Fairport Convention, ex-Jethro Tull). Swarb’s Lazarus play mostly traditional music of the British Isles."
Ron Trueman-Border at Blues at the Red, Stevenage, Hertfordshire
"Ron employs a wealth of musical forms and influences to produce songs that vividly portray an Everyman's vision of life in the 21st century" Steve Clarke
Jim Page at The Marrs Bar, Worcester
“Every now and again I encounter a singer who gives me a glimmer of hope. Jim Page carries the light.”
- Christy Moore
Mumbo-Jumbo at Katie Fitzgerald's, 187 Enville Street, Wollaston, Stourbridge, West Midlands
"Mumbo-Jumbo takes three of the Midlands most experienced blues musicians, throws them together in a broadly acoustic format and lets them deliver what they are best at - live music performance."
Anthony John Clarke at The Bothy Folk Club, Southport, Merseyside
"Songwriting is an art many aspire to, but few have the ability to create a masterpiece. Anthony John does just that almost every time he puts pen to paper. Intelligent and eloquent lyrics coupled with beautifully crafted melodies, leave the listener in no doubt that this is the work of a true craftsman. Anthony John Clarke has class!"
Sarah Grey with Kieran Means at The Scragg End Folk Club, Oakthorpe, nr Swadlincote, Leicestershire
Flook at The Met, Bury, Lancashire
"This BBC Folk Award winning quartet has come a long way since its formation in 1995. The infectious and feverish versatility of their original material puts them at the cutting edge of Anglo-Irish instrumental music."
Landermason at Acoustic Roots, Tithe Bar & Frasserie, Northallerton, North Yorkshire
"Fiona Lander and Paul Mason collectively known as 'Landermason' have been writing, recording and performing together since 2000. Multi instrumentalist Fiona (vocals, piano, whistles, saxes, clarinet and recorder) and Paul (guitars and vocals) have developed a unique sound which displays their undoubted talents. They combine both traditional and contemporary folk with jazz and other styles in their beautiful and striking arrangements."
The Wilsons at South Shields Folk Club, South Shields, Tyne and Wear
‘The Wilson family consists of sister Pat and brothers Tom, Chris, Steve, Ken and Mike, all members of the same family from Teesside in the North East of England.
Regarded by many as the foremost acappella group on the British Folk Scene, they sing traditionally oriented songs in unaccompanied harmony, like to have a bit of a laugh and wash it all down with a few odd pints. "
Back to Calendar
Monday 9th February 2009
Grabham Spink at The Barge, Gillingham, Kent
"Iain Spink, (vocals, guitars) and Heather Grabham, (vocals, penny whistle, harmonica, flute) have been performing and writing together since 2003. They're debut album, "Fables & Labels" is available now: a unique blend of Americana roots and English folk, infused with a pop sensibility."
Porch Swing Blues at The Barnaby Rudge, Broadstairs, Kent
Chris Berry and Dave Ferra combine to produce some authentic good-time blues music with a feel of New Orleans and Beyond.
"Some Really fine acoustic blues and refreshing to hear something that’s not heavy duty Delta style. Jaunty and enjoyable and worth looking into." (Blues in Britain magazine)
The Mandolinquents at The Arts Centre, Colchester, Essex
The Mandolinquents feature everything from hot swing and ragtime instrumentals from the mandolin orchestras of the 1930s: Irving Berlin, Mozart, Ravel and Tchaikovsky to lively reels and beautiful traditional Irish airs to Chinese and Brazilian folk tunes. All this played with infectious fun, off-beat humour and stunning virtuosity on mandolin, mandola, mandocello, mandobass and classical guitar, with the occasional burst of song or fiddle.
The Tindalls at Herga Folk Club, Pinner, Harrow, West London
"With songs in our repertoire from Joni Mitchell to Billy Holliday, Bob Dylan to James Taylor and Fairport Convention to Fleetwood Mac, our music spans many "genres" of popular folk and acoustic music where Paula's powerful voice, together with Stuart's harmonies and many intricate finger-picking guitar styles (including Ragtime, Classical, Jazz and traditional Folk) ensure a varied mix of music, from songs to instrumentals."
Liz Simcock at The Rose and Crown, 10 St Michael’s St, St Albans, Hertfordshire
"Liz is a great songwriter and gorgeous singer with a relaxed and very endearing stage presence. We have seen her grow from strength to strength as a performer, and now stand easily alongside any of the female singer/songwriters working on the acoustic/folk music scene" Hitchen Folk Club
Patty Vetta and Alan Franks at The Tudor Folk Club, Chesham, Buckinghamshire
Bob Fox at Warwick Folk Club, Warwick, West Midlands
"Fox always was one of the scene's superior singers and his voice is as confident and ebullient as it ever was . . ." Froots
Steve Knightley at Nettlebed Folk Club, Nettlebed, Oxfordshire
"The popular Show of Hands frontman takes off on his own tour, showcasing his eagerly awaited new album Track of Words Retraced. He is supported by rising young West Country singer songwriter Jenna, whose acclaimed debut album Barefoot and Eager he produced."
Jim Page at The Robin 2, Wolverhampton
“Every now and again I encounter a singer who gives me a glimmer of hope. Jim Page carries the light.”
- Christy Moore
Jeff Davis at (Not) The White Horse Folk Club, Beverley, East Yorkshire
"A fine interpreter of traditional song; worth a lot of salt" Sing Out! (USA)
"An excellent banjo frailer and fiddler" The Living Tradition (UK)
Few Broth at The Bridge Folk Club, Newcastle Upon Tyne
Back to Calendar
Tuesday 10th February 2009
Sharps Folk Club, Cecil Sharp House, Camden, London
"A friendly, informal sing-around in the bar at Cecil Sharp House"
Phil Beer at The Hoy At Anchor Folk Club, Leigh on Sea, Essex
"The dazzling, award-winning multi instrumentalist from the ever popular Show of Hands takes off on a solo tour"
Maggie Sand & Sandragon at St Neots Folk Club, St Neots, Cambridgeshire
"Maggie Sand & Sandragon perform a unique blend of English traditional songs and hi-energy dance tunes from the mediaeval and Renaissance eras, performed on crumhorns, recorders, hurdy-gurdy, harmonium, bouzouki, mandola guitar and percussion."
Sarah McQuaid at Ringwood Folk Club, The Elm Tree Hightown, Ringwood, Hampshire
"Sarah McQuaid is a singer, guitarist and writer. The author of The Irish DADGAD Guitar Book, she has an exquisite voice and is a terrific guitarist.
Previously resident in Ireland, she has recently relocated to the UK and is appearing at Sidmouth Folk Week & other venues. Singing traditional Irish and some contemporary songs. Her CD 'When Two Lovers Meet.' Is truly wonderful."
Jim Page at The Beehive, Swindon
“Every now and again I encounter a singer who gives me a glimmer of hope. Jim Page carries the light.”
- Christy Moore
James Hollingsworth at The Merchants Inn, 5 Little Church Street, Rugby, Warwickshire
"James Hollingsworth’s main stage set on the Saturday afternoon of the festival ranged from what was grounded in the traditional – a voice buzzing in the ear, the familiar plucked guitar – to what seemed to border on the celestial, as both voice and a much effected, but delicately measured, acoustic guitar swept back and forth across the arena. James’ performance was captivating…truly so, as many followed him to the intimate surroundings of the Bar Stage later in the afternoon, where an equally diverse mixture of songs and styles was in evidence." - Abbey Mill Folk Festival, 2006
Moishe's Bagel at The Drill Hall, Lincoln
"Rip-roaring, foot-stomping, jazz-inflected klezmer and Balkan music from some more of Scotland’s finest musicians! Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk and dance music with Middle Eastern rhythms, virtuoso performances and the excitement and soul of improvisation. An intoxicating, life-affirming mix!"
Grace Notes at Belper Folk Club, Belper, Derbyshire
"Grace Notes are Maggie Boyle, Helen Hockenhull and Lynda Hardcastle. They perform acappella and accompanied arrangements of traditional and contemporary songs in three-part harmony"
Tom Kitching & Gren Bartley at The Brown Cow Folk Club, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
"From deepest Loughborough come Tom Kitching and Gren Bartley. Playing an aromatic hotpot of folk, world and blues from around the globe, this is a great opportunity to catch the pair on their way up. Recently signed by Fellside records, and with a busy festival schedule, the future looks bright. A young folk award finalist 2003, Tom Kitching plays fiddle with a unique flair, adding depth and context to material, drawing on his broad command of styles. Gren Bartley is simply a superstar of the finger style guitar in the making. Leaving audiences flabbergasted with the speed and control of his picking, the sensitivity and variety of his music will draw you deeper in! Together, there’s quite a chemistry"
Kieran Halpin at The Cask, Scarborough, North Yorkshire
"Since 1979 Kieran Halpin has recorded 17 albums and his songs have been covered by artists such as Vin Garbutt, Dolores Keane, Tom McConville, Niamh Parsons, The Battlefield Band, Flossie and the late John Wright. He has recorded in his native Ireland, Scotland, London, Nashville and Sydney.
Whilst his albums are always something to look forward to it is live on stage where Halpin makes his mark. Powerful and passionate, intimate and intense, he is impossible to ignore. He sounds like he is living every song. He has managed to marry his intelligent and thought provoking lyrics with great melodies and has developed over the years into a writer with a style of his own.
All of this is underscored by an incisive wit in his introductions which helps an audience to understand where the song comes from and hint at where it might be going."
Singers Night at Cramlington Folk Club, The Hind, Dewley, Cramlington, Northumberland
Sarah-Jane Summers and Ewan MacPherson at Penicuik Folk Club, 34 High St, Penicuik, Midlothian
"Sarah-Jane Summers is originally from Inverness, and was taught by the great Donald Riddell. As well as a lasting love of Highland fiddle music, Sarah-Jane is very interested in Scandinavian music, and performed previously at Penicuik folk Club with Fribo. Born in Liverpool, Ewan achievied a National Diploma in Performing Arts/Music at Wrexham and an Honours Degree in Music at Paul Mcartneys Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts. Since graduating he has been working and touring with many different musicans from the Scottish and English music scenes and is an active member of the Edinburgh session scene. Euan currently plays with local bands The Unit and Daura."
Back to Calendar
Wednesday 11th February 2009
The Rude Mechanicals at The Ferry Inn, Shoreham, Sussex
"Foot-tapping music for all occasions. Huge repertoire of varied material including original arrangements of traditional folk tunes and new compositions."
Porch Swing Blues at The Man of Kent, Rochester, Kent
Chris Berry and Dave Ferra combine to produce some authentic good-time blues music with a feel of New Orleans and Beyond.
"Some Really fine acoustic blues and refreshing to hear something that’s not heavy duty Delta style. Jaunty and enjoyable and worth looking into." (Blues in Britain magazine)
Alan Prosser at Faversham Folk Club, Faversham, Kent
Oysterband Guitarist playing Solo
Phil Beer at The Gallery Queens Theatre, Barnstaple, Devon
"The dazzling, award-winning multi instrumentalist from the ever popular Show of Hands takes off on a solo tour"
James Hollingsworth at The Thomas Tripp, 10 Wick Lane, Christchurch, Dorset
"James Hollingsworth’s main stage set on the Saturday afternoon of the festival ranged from what was grounded in the traditional – a voice buzzing in the ear, the familiar plucked guitar – to what seemed to border on the celestial, as both voice and a much effected, but delicately measured, acoustic guitar swept back and forth across the arena. James’ performance was captivating…truly so, as many followed him to the intimate surroundings of the Bar Stage later in the afternoon, where an equally diverse mixture of songs and styles was in evidence." - Abbey Mill Folk Festival, 2006
Moishe's Bagel at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-upon-Avon, Wiltshire
"Rip-roaring, foot-stomping, jazz-inflected klezmer and Balkan music from some more of Scotland’s finest musicians! Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk and dance music with Middle Eastern rhythms, virtuoso performances and the excitement and soul of improvisation. An intoxicating, life-affirming mix!"
Uiscedwr at South Hill Park Arts Centre, Bracknell, Berkshire
"Funky-folk quartet Uiscedwr is one of Britain's most exciting contemporary bands. Featuring Anna Esslemont on fiddle and vocals with James Hickman on guitar and Karen Tweed on piano accordion, the band's sound is underpinned by Cormac Byrne (of Seth Lakeman band fame) playing the most thrilling percussion you're ever likely to hear.
With awards from the BBC and the PRS Foundation and two highly acclaimed albums under their belt, Uiscedwr's music is fatter, funkier and folkier than ever before. The eclectic repertoire draws on traditions from all over the British isles tempered by influences as diverse as jazz, Latin, blues, and klezmer. Spend an evening with Uiscedwr and travel with them round the world. "
Bob Fox at The Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, Suffolk
"Fox always was one of the scene's superior singers and his voice is as confident and ebullient as it ever was . . ." Froots
The Amigos at The Globe, 125 Albany Rd, Roath, Cardiff
"You will probably never hear such a wide range of music as you would at an Amigos concert all played with virtuosity and buckets full of passion. With a repertoire within the range of 1000 tunes/songs varying from Gypsy Jazz, Trad Gypsy, Hot Club Jazz, Hungarian, Yiddish, Russian, Mussette, Latin, Spanish, Tex-Mex, Cuban, Samba, Rumba, Calypso and Celtic."
Steve Knightley at Biddulph Town Hall, Biddulph, Staffordshire 01782 514896
"The popular Show of Hands frontman takes off on his own tour, showcasing his eagerly awaited new album Track of Words Retraced. He is supported by rising young West Country singer songwriter Jenna, whose acclaimed debut album Barefoot and Eager he produced."
Pint & Dale at Cottingham Live, Cottingham, East Yorkshire
William Pint and Felicia Dale rank among North America's most exciting interpreters of music based in the traditions of the British Isles and France... unconventional but spine-tingling... unique and mesmerizing "
Dirty Linen
Jeff Davis at Cross Keys Folk Club, Oldham, Lancashire
"A fine interpreter of traditional song; worth a lot of salt" Sing Out! (USA)
"An excellent banjo frailer and fiddler" The Living Tradition (UK)
The Alison Arms Folk Club at The Alison Arms, Preston Road, Coppull Lancashire
"Everyone is welcome at the Alison Arms Folk singaround, every Wednesday from 8.30ish to midnight. If you play acoustic, sing, dance, recount stories or recite poems you'll get your turn to perform. It isn't compulsory, though. If you just want to come and listen your welcome as long as you applaud until your hands hurt. We meet in an upstairs function room (door to right of bar, left up the stairs and left at the top)"
Anna Shannon at The Clarence Folk Club, The Clarence, Preston New Road, Blackpool
Gill Bowman at Dunfermline Folk Club, Dunfermline, Fife
"One of Scotland’s finest singers of traditional and contemporary songs of Scottish life"
Mike and Ali Vass at Edinburgh Folk Club, The Pleasance Cabaret Bar, 60 The Pleasance, Edinburgh
"Twins, Mike and Ali Vass have been playing together for over ten years.
Mike (fiddle, vocals) and Ali (piano, vocals) are two of the best young exponents of traditional music in Scotland. Playing a varied mix of traditional and contemporary tunes, songs with close vocal harmonies and footstompin’ jigs and reels, Mike and Ali’s performances are bursting with energy, drive and vitality."
Landermason at Irvine Folk Club, Irvine, Ayrshire
"Fiona Lander and Paul Mason collectively known as 'Landermason' have been writing, recording and performing together since 2000. Multi instrumentalist Fiona (vocals, piano, whistles, saxes, clarinet and recorder) and Paul (guitars and vocals) have developed a unique sound which displays their undoubted talents. They combine both traditional and contemporary folk with jazz and other styles in their beautiful and striking arrangements."
Back to Calendar
Thursday 12th February 2009
Jim Page at The Green Note, Camden, London
“Every now and again I encounter a singer who gives me a glimmer of hope. Jim Page carries the light.”
- Christy Moore
The Drones at Islington Folk Club, Clerkenwell, London
"Always intriguing, entertaining and occasionally challenging a Drones performance is a memorable occasion. The mood ranges widely from hilarity inducing dancing toys to haunting melodies via tunes with unusual time signatures and textures."
The Icarus Club, Lewisham, South East London
"The Icarus Club is a weekly acoustic event featuring the best in local talent, plus some of the hottest acts doing the rounds in London. A warm and friendly atmosphere awaits you every Thursday at the Station Hotel, 14 Staplehurst Road, Hither Green, London SE13 5BN"
Moishe's Bagel at St Georges, Bristol
"Rip-roaring, foot-stomping, jazz-inflected klezmer and Balkan music from some more of Scotland’s finest musicians! Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk and dance music with Middle Eastern rhythms, virtuoso performances and the excitement and soul of improvisation. An intoxicating, life-affirming mix!"
Jim Moray at Totnes Folk Song Club, Dartmouth Inn, Totnes, Devon
"One of the leading young performers to have emerged onto the folk scene in recent years Jim combines traditional song with state of the art technology"
Zoox at Folk at The Royal Oak, Lewes, Sussex
"Traditional tunes with a contemporary attitude"
Junk and Disorderly at The Cricketers, 14 St Peters Street, Canterbury, Kent
"Lively, entertaining 5-piece, performing folk, rock, blues and jazz covers, with harmony vocals."
Folk Night featuring George Papavgeris at Great Bardfield Folk Club, Great Bardfield, Essex
The most prolific of creative men; the grandest of hearts and maker of songs that sear into the soul, George is unique, to say the least. His lilting accent lends a fantastic clarity to his delivery that is matched by deceptively simple guitar work. Few have written so many songs that demand your full attention and then insist, in the finest of ways, on staying with you forever. (Graham Searle)
Singers Night at The Anchor Folk Club, Blue Anchor Public House, High Road, Byfleet, Surrey
Jim McLean at Maidenhead Folk Club, The 'Seven Stars' PH, Knowl Hill, Nr Maidenhead, Berkshire
Guitarist, Singer and Songwriter
The Kittiwakes at The Redbourn Folk Club, Redbourn, Hertfordshire
'The Kittiwakes craft timeless and magical acoustically dappled folk treats - gentle and alluring ostensibly Gaelic in sound texture and gorgeously flighty braided as they are by corteges of mandolins, accordions and violins.' - Losing Today
Singers and Musicians Night at The Hungry Horse Acoustic Folk Club, The Rake (Pub/Restaurant), Rake Lane, Little Stanney, near Ellesmere Port, Cheshire
Will Killeen at Katie Fitzgerald's, 187 Enville Street, Wollaston, Stourbridge, West Midlands
"Will Killeen was born in Mayo, Ireland. He taught himself guitar from the age of 10 then, influenced by Howlin' Wolf~ Doc Watson, The Pretty Things, Robert Johnson, Bob Dylan and the Roiling Stones to name a few. Soon he was performing around London and once replaced Rory Gallagher when Taste was formed. Will's unique-Blues guitar style shows influences from a mixture of Country, Celtic, Eastern and Rock music."
Phil Beer at Swythamly and Heaton Village Hall, Buxton, Derbyshire (Tickets: www.philbeer.co.uk)
"The dazzling, award-winning multi instrumentalist from the ever popular Show of Hands takes off on a solo tour"
Sylvia Barnes and Sandy Stanage at The Black Swan Folk Club, York
Janet Russell at The Topic Folk Club, Bradford
"a long established songwriter and singer - expect some Scottish traditional songs. Beautiful voice and warm personality."
Singers Night at Gregson Lane Folk Club, Hoghton, Lancashire
Steve Knightley at The Met, Bury, Lancashire
"The popular Show of Hands frontman takes off on his own tour, showcasing his eagerly awaited new album Track of Words Retraced. He is supported by rising young West Country singer songwriter Jenna, whose acclaimed debut album Barefoot and Eager he produced."
Flook at Forum 28, Barrow in Furness, Cumbria
"The flutes of Brian Finnegan and Sarah Allen, the guitar of Ed Boyd and the bodhran of John Joe Kelly weave and spin traditionally rooted tunes into the breathtaking sound of the groundbreaking band Flook. This group possesses a rare blend of fiery technical brilliance, delicate ensemble interaction and a bold, adventurous musical imagination."
Fil Campbell with Tom McFarland at The Star Folk Club, Glasgow
Fil is a world travelled, passionate singer from Ireland. She sings traditional songs that she learned as a child, has been writing songs since her school days, and is a master interpreter of songs. With Tom on percussion and vocals: “one of the most sensitive accompanists on the folk scene”….
Gifford Lind at Falkirk Folk Club, Smiths Lounge, 23 Baxters Wynd, Falkirk
"A talented songwriter who continues to push the boundaries of song writing in Scotland."
Back to Calendar
Friday 13th February 2009
Open House at Bodmin Folk Club, Bodmin, Cornwall
"no featured guest artists, but an evening for local and visiting singers, musicians etc, to perform in a friendly and encouraging atmosphere - usually a lively and stimulating experience... or if you don't wish to perform and prefer to listen, you are equally welcome."
Norcsalordie at The Blue Boar Inn, Market Place, Frome, Somerset
"Their music is superbly performed, buoyant, catchy and individual. Their stage presence is such that it encourages the audience to take part and ‘buy in to’ their performance and image. That in itself is very rare. They have a unique take on an old fashioned style of music, which makes it both contemporary and engaging"
Ron Trueman-Border at The Standard Inn, Upavon, Wiltshire
"Ron employs a wealth of musical forms and influences to produce songs that vividly portray an Everyman's vision of life in the 21st century" Steve Clarke
Moishe's Bagel at Ashcroft Arts Centre, Fareham, Hampshire
"Rip-roaring, foot-stomping, jazz-inflected klezmer and Balkan music from some more of Scotland’s finest musicians! Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk and dance music with Middle Eastern rhythms, virtuoso performances and the excitement and soul of improvisation. An intoxicating, life-affirming mix!"
Anything goes at Fo'c'sle Folk Club Folk Club, Southampton, Hampshire."
Martin Wyndham-Reed at Seaford Folk Club, The Beachcomber, Dane Road, Seaford, East Sussex
Tom Kitching & Gren Bartley at The Boars Head, Horsham, Sussex
"From deepest Loughborough come Tom Kitching and Gren Bartley. Playing an aromatic hotpot of folk, world and blues from around the globe, this is a great opportunity to catch the pair on their way up. Recently signed by Fellside records, and with a busy festival schedule, the future looks bright. A young folk award finalist 2003, Tom Kitching plays fiddle with a unique flair, adding depth and context to material, drawing on his broad command of styles. Gren Bartley is simply a superstar of the finger style guitar in the making. Leaving audiences flabbergasted with the speed and control of his picking, the sensitivity and variety of his music will draw you deeper in! Together, there’s quite a chemistry"
The Dealers at The Wrotham Arms, 9 Ramsgate Rd, Broadstairs, Kent
“Melodic, charming and eccentric – Pierre and Bessie are a genuinely original voice in the thriving young English Roots scene”
Steve Knightly – SHOW OF HANDS
Roland Chadwick at The Milkmaid Folk Club, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk
“Roland Chadwick is a Composer, Guitarist and internationally acclaimed recording artist. A trained classical guitarist, he plays "anything with frets". "
Nuru Kane at The Green Note, Camden, London
"Nuru Kane was born and raised in Medina, Dakar, and his distinctive take on Senegalese music explores the connections between the music of North and West Africa – a musical journey across the Sahara. His debut album, SIGIL, was released in March ‘06 to rave reviews. SIGIL captures Nuru’s range of influences, from his blues-led solo songs, reminiscent of Ali Farka Touré, through to the driving gnawa trance that forms the backbone of his pulsating live performances."
Martin Simpson at The Kalamazoo Klub, Crouch End, London
"Martin Simpson's guitar playing is unsurpassed; he is one of the finest finger pickers and slide pickers of our time and was recently named one of the top artists of the decade by Acoustic Guitar Magazine. Winner of 5 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards - 2 of them in 2008 for Best Original Song and Best Album - an Indie Award for his album Cool & Unusual, and the 2006 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Ards Guitar Festival, he is a superb interpreter of traditional music and song from both sides of the Atlantic."
Scottish Ceilidh Club at Cecil Sharp House, Camden, London
Zoox at Cambridge Folk Club, Cambridge
"Traditional tunes with a contemporary attitude"
Angie Palmer at The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire
"Angie Palmer is a fabulous British Americana artist whose performances are a raw and edgy mix of country, blues and folk, aggressive and tender, encompassing all the major themes of life, love, loss and redemption. Her last two CDs made the long-cut for the Mercury Music Prize, drawing comparisons with Bob Dylan's mid-60s output. Her latest album Meanwhile… As Night Falls was released at the end of 2008. Expect strange takes on old fairy tales, with diverse influences from French islands to Russian folk stories.
Tickets £9.50 in advance, £11.50 on the door"
Red Ruth at Kontra Roots, Woodford, Kettering, Northamptonshire
"Formed in Jan 2008 by singer/songwriter Ian Rigg, Red Ruth completed it's final line up in June, when rehearsals for both the live shows and the debut album began in earnest. With a line up of amazing and renowned UK folk musicians, Red Ruth are tipped to be the next big thing on the folk festival scene."
Steve Turner at The Newcastle and Potteries Folk Song Club, The Foxfield Railway, Caversham Road, Blythe Bridge, Staffordshire
"A shining example of the music the British folk scene is capable of producing." Froots
Bob Fox at Arthur's Folk Club, Dog and Partridge, Palmerston Street, Bollington, Cheshire
"Fox always was one of the scene's superior singers and his voice is as confident and ebullient as it ever was . . ." Froots
3 Monkeys Folk Club Presents: Boo Hewerdine at Southport Old Links Golf Club, Moss Lane, Churchtown, Southport, Merseyside
"Singer Songwriter"
Time: Doors – 1900 hrs; Concert 2000 hrs
Tickets: £10
Contact for tickets: 01704 540011 or www.seftonarts.co.uk
Jim Page at 'The Rock' at Maltby, Maltby, South Yorkshire
“Every now and again I encounter a singer who gives me a glimmer of hope. Jim Page carries the light.”
- Christy Moore
Phil Beer at Sledmere Village Hall. Driffield, East Yorkshire (Tickets: www.philbeer.co.uk)
"The dazzling, award-winning multi instrumentalist from the ever popular Show of Hands takes off on a solo tour"
The Hut People at Seven Arts Space, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, West Yorkshire
"accordion and percussion duo.The accordionist is Sam Pirt who plays with 422 who won the Radio 2 folk awards a few years back.Sam is a very experienced musician who is well established in the folk world. He is found throughout the year playing and workshopping in loads of folk festivals.
Gary Hammond is the percussionist, who for the past 12 years has recorded and toured with The Beautiful South. He has worked with Nina Simone and many other groups and set ups within the world music and jazz/pop world. They both have a love of scandinavian, english and european folk tunes which are played with an accordion/multi percussion twist."
Edwina Hayes at Raggalds Acoustic, The Raggalds Inn, Brighouse & Denholme Road, Queensbury, West Yorkshire (8.30pm start and free)
'A wonderful young woman, so gifted and full of song, with a voice as sweet as the angels' Nanci Griffith
Altan at Saltaire Live, Victoria Hall, Victoria Road, Bradford, West Yorkshire
'"Traditional music and song from Ireland delivered with grace, passion, pride and skill by undoubted masters of the music"
Irish traditional band Altan are recognised as giant figures within the world of folk music. They forged their musical skills in kitchen and pub sessions in their native Donegal some twenty years ago. Those modest beginnings have given way to international success. Altan are one of Ireland's finest ever musical exports- selling over 1 million albums and filling concert halls from Dublin to Sydney. They maintain a touring schedule that has grown the international audience for quality Irish music and while they've performed for royalty and various Presidents and world leaders still return to their roots and play those same pub sessions when time allows.'
Grace Notes at The Baccapipes Folk Club, Keighley, West Yorkshire
Grace Notes perform a cappella and accompanied arrangements of traditional and contemporary songs in three-part harmony.
"the voices glide like birds circling on warm air currents" fRoots
Steve Knightley at The Chaplaincy Centre, Lancaster 01524 414043
"The popular Show of Hands frontman takes off on his own tour, showcasing his eagerly awaited new album Track of Words Retraced. He is supported by rising young West Country singer songwriter Jenna, whose acclaimed debut album Barefoot and Eager he produced."
The Anna Massie Band at Reeth Memorial Hall, Reeth, Nr Richmond, North Yorkshire
"Anna Massie was the winner of the BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician of the Year 2003 Award. A talented multi-instrumentalist, she excels in playing the fiddle, mandolin and tenor banjo. Though perhaps most impressive is her guitar playing - equally at home either accompanying in her unique rhythmic style or flatpicking tunes, Massie’s dexterity shines through."
Anthony John Clarke at Carlisle Folk and Blues Club, Carlisle, Cumbria
Singer Songwriter
Back to Calendar
Saturday 14th Febuary 2009
Balkanplus at Cecil Sharp House, Camden, London
"Founded in 1986 to provide a regular forum for Balkan folklore enthusiasts, Balkanplus organises monthly dances as well as the occasional dance workshop and music event at Cecil Sharp House - home of the EFDSS. The "plus" tag allows the inclusion of popular material beyond the borders of the Balkans."
Barndarnce at Cecil Sharp House, Camden, London
"This is the place for great dancing - American-style contras and squares, with a few trad and modern numbers thrown in for good measure. Top-class bands drive the dance, and clever callers guide the moves."
Robin Gillan and Donnie Scott at The Cellar Upstairs Folk Club, Euston, London
Old Time American Songs
James Hollingsworth at The Bell Inn, 3 Main Street, Ash, Nr Martock, Somerset
"James Hollingsworth’s main stage set on the Saturday afternoon of the festival ranged from what was grounded in the traditional – a voice buzzing in the ear, the familiar plucked guitar – to what seemed to border on the celestial, as both voice and a much effected, but delicately measured, acoustic guitar swept back and forth across the arena. James’ performance was captivating…truly so, as many followed him to the intimate surroundings of the Bar Stage later in the afternoon, where an equally diverse mixture of songs and styles was in evidence." - Abbey Mill Folk Festival, 2006
Tim Laycock plus Steve Waters at The Manor Hotel, The Beacon, Exmouth, Devon
"specialist in the songs, traditions and dialect of the West Country, and the poetry and prose of William Barnes and Thomas Hardy."
Tom Kitching & Gren Bartley at The Square and Compass, Worth Matravers, Dorset
"From deepest Loughborough come Tom Kitching and Gren Bartley. Playing an aromatic hotpot of folk, world and blues from around the globe, this is a great opportunity to catch the pair on their way up. Recently signed by Fellside records, and with a busy festival schedule, the future looks bright. A young folk award finalist 2003, Tom Kitching plays fiddle with a unique flair, adding depth and context to material, drawing on his broad command of styles. Gren Bartley is simply a superstar of the finger style guitar in the making. Leaving audiences flabbergasted with the speed and control of his picking, the sensitivity and variety of his music will draw you deeper in! Together, there’s quite a chemistry"
Meltdown Ceilidh featuring Moondance with caller Fee Lock at Clair Hall, Perrymount Road, Haywards Heath, Sussex
(supported by SEFAN with additional support from Hobgoblin Music)
Don and Diane Morgan at Lewes Saturday Folk Club, Lewes, Sussex
"Fine harmony & solo singing, with thoughtful & amusing readings. "
Moveable Feast at Pissarro's, 9-10 South Terrace, Hastings, Sussex
"A whole feast of world roots influences, including cajun, latin, bluegrass and flamenco"
TIME OUT
Moishe's Bagel at The Junction, Cambridge
"Rip-roaring, foot-stomping, jazz-inflected klezmer and Balkan music from some more of Scotland’s finest musicians! Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk and dance music with Middle Eastern rhythms, virtuoso performances and the excitement and soul of improvisation. An intoxicating, life-affirming mix!"
Ron Trueman-Border at The Queens Head, Chesham, Buckinghamshire
"Ron employs a wealth of musical forms and influences to produce songs that vividly portray an Everyman's vision of life in the 21st century" Steve Clarke
Tom Paxton at The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire
Tom Paxton's songs are known and loved around the world - The Last Thing On My Mind, Ramblin' Boy and Bottle of Wine - just a few of his truly timeless works. His generosity to both audiences and fellow musicians is renowned and his passion for justice and the ties that bind people together is unwavering. For all this and more, Tom Paxton ranks as one of the most revered musicians of his generation.
"I think we are all born singing Tom Paxton songs." Nanci Griffith.
Tom Leary/PJ Wright at Newhampton Folk, Wolverhampton
The Battlefield Band at The Red Lion Folk Club, Birmingham
‘Under their banner 'Forward With Scotland's Past', Battlefield Band are inspired by their rich heritage of Celtic music and fired by the strength of the modern Scottish cultural scene. This unique quartet mix the old songs and tunes with new self-penned material, playing them on a unique fusion of ancient and modern instruments; bagpipes, synthesizers, fiddles, guitars, cittern, bass, whistles and bouzouki. Battlefield Band pioneered the integration of bagpipes with fiddle, keyboards, guitar and voice.'
Folkport at Southport Arts Centre, Cambridge Hall, Lord St, Southport, Merseyside
Featuring Mawkin Causley, The Anna Massie Band & The Kathryn Tickell Band, Uiscedwr, Ruth Notman & Show of Hands and more
Pete Coe at Faldingworth Live, Faldingworth Memorial Hall, Faldingworth, Lincolnshire
"A One-Man Folk Industry!" was how Jim Lloyd described Pete Coe on Folk
on 2. With a vast repertoire of traditional & original songs, dance
tunes & dances playing bouzouki, melodeon, dulcimer, banjo & step
percussion, he's been a professional musician since 1971. Pete looks to
the tradition, but doesn't shrink from adapting and reinventing in order
to move forward. He is essentially a storyteller, equally at home with
lengthy traditional ballads as with pithy self-penned songs.He has
recorded ten albums, broadcasts regularly on local and BBC radio and has
appeared in several television programmes. Journalist Colin Irwin wrote
in Mojo Magazine, "He explores the heartland of the English folk song
revival with an ease and honesty that invests traditional songs with a
simplistic beauty"
Lau at The Platform, Morecambe, Lancashire
"Lau is a formidable union of three of the finest and most innovative exponents of modern traditional music in Scotland today; Kris Drever (guitar and vocal), Martin Green (piano accordion) and Aidan O'Rourke (fiddle). In a little over a year Lau have already become well established throughout Scotland and as their summer dates for 2007 start shaping up they look set to storm festivals across the world. Lau's now infamous live shows are a must-see experience."
Edwina Hayes at The Haven Arms, Havenside, Sherrif Highway, Hedon, Hull
'A wonderful young woman, so gifted and full of song, with a voice as sweet as the angels' Nanci Griffith
Free Ceilidh at Lauries Acoustic Bar, Glasgow
Skyhook at Penicuik Community Arts Centre, Penicuik, Midlothian
"Skyhook are characterised by breathtaking twin fiddles combined with sublime guitar, bouzouki and voice. They shift seamlessly between driving dance music and spine-tingling songs, and play with a joy and precision that's hard to match."
Back to Calendar
Sunday 15th Febuary 2009
Wizz Jones at Walthamstow Folk Club, Walthamstow, East London
"A stonecold legend Wizz had been playing fingerstyle blues guitar since the fifties and along the way has influenced musicians from John Renbourn to Eric Clapton."
Tish Hinojosa at Twickenham Folk Club, Twickenham, West London
"From el barrio to the White House, Tish has enchanted, enlightened and entertained countless listeners with her distinctive cross-cultural music. In the process, she has become one of the most acclaimed and beloved artists in the contemporary Latin and folk scene. Through a purity of voice and vision that embraces folk, pop, tejano, country and latino styles, Hinojosa’s songwriting is reflective of America's multicultural richness.
"A talented songwriter with an understated but utterly unaffected delivery... vivid... touching... pointed... playful... engaging... A rare gift for melody that's perfect for Hinojosa's lovely, relaxed soprano." (THE WASHINGTON POST)
Jim Page at The Greyhorse, Kingston, South West London
“Every now and again I encounter a singer who gives me a glimmer of hope. Jim Page carries the light.”
- Christy Moore
Singers/Musicians Night at Wheal Dream Folk Club, Wheal Dream Restaurant and Free House, Wendron, Helston, Cornwall
All Welcome
Altan at Cheltenham Town Hall, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
'"Traditional music and song from Ireland delivered with grace, passion, pride and skill by undoubted masters of the music"
Irish traditional band Altan are recognised as giant figures within the world of folk music. They forged their musical skills in kitchen and pub sessions in their native Donegal some twenty years ago. Those modest beginnings have given way to international success. Altan are one of Ireland's finest ever musical exports- selling over 1 million albums and filling concert halls from Dublin to Sydney. They maintain a touring schedule that has grown the international audience for quality Irish music and while they've performed for royalty and various Presidents and world leaders still return to their roots and play those same pub sessions when time allows.'
Claude Bourbon at The Uplands Tavern, 42 Uplands Crescent, Swansea
"Acoustic blues guitar playing just doesn't come much better than this!"
Blueprint Magazine
Lynne Heraud & Pat Turner at The Bothy Folk Club, Southport, Merseyside
"Lynne Heraud & Pat Turner a |
