Folk and Roots - The Guide to Folk Gigs, Concerts, Sessions

May 2013 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.

NB Please include the full details of your event, the location, any relevant venue and artist links and descriptions, we don't have the time or inclination to search for these details ourselves and we will not include events without them.
For this months events see below, for next month see June...

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Friday 1st May 2013

Amaraterra - Pizzica band at Green Note, Camden, London
"Amaraterra is the first ensemble in London to play pizzica – the traditional dance and music from Salento, the “heel” of Italy. The millenary stratification of greek, roman, byzantine traditions and the relative insularity of the Salentine peninsula has conjured to preserve a timeless musical treasure that is still alive and enjoyed by locals and thousands of tourists alike in countless village festivals, enjoying the music as well as the stunning sea of Salento."

Mark McAnaw at Dunfermline Folk Club, Dunfermline, Fife
"Mark is one of the new emerging faces of folk from the depths of Lanarkshire. Expect humour, history and commentaries on Scottish life today."

Thursday 2nd May 2013

Gren Bartley at Green Note, Camden, London
"Gren is truly the future of folk songwriting, using his influences from folk and blues traditions to bring something unique to this modern day troubadour. He is an artist not to be missed."

Diabel Cissokho at The Forge, Camden, London
"Senegalese musician Diabel Cissokho draws on his rich musical heritage, blending beautiful Mandinkan melodies with an upbeat West African groove that will have you up on your feet!"

Dan Whitehouse at Loughton Folk Club, Loughton, Essex
“Dan writes music steeped in timeless roots traditions, laced with lyrical twists that narrate modern life."

Moore Ross Rutter at The Black Swan Folk Club, York, North Yorkshire
"Three exciting young virtuoso players (fiddle, melodeon, guitar), BBC Young Folk winners in 2011"

Vamm at Carnegie Hall, Dunfermline, Fife
'Having previously played in bands that required tight unison playing, power and volume, VAMM formed out of a shared wish to explore the possibilities of harmony, melody and rhythm with like-minded musicians.
VAMM is not a traditional trio. Not in the way you might expect. Their repertoire doesn’t rely on the slow strathspeys, Shetland reels or Scandinavian polskas these musicians are best known for.
Contemporary tunes from the talents of Lau’s Aidan O’Rourke and composer Jim Sutherland sit alongside 19th century four-to-the-floor reels, modern pieces by up-and-coming musicians and the group’s own compositions. VAMM’s sound is led by the strength of the melody and harmonic beauty rather than their cultural backgrounds.'

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Friday 3rd May 2013

Family Atlantica at Green Note, Camden, London
"A mesmerizing kaleidoscope of afro-atlantic culture swirled into psychedelic journey of tropical music, driven by deep organic rhythms."

Shkembe Soup at Jamboree, Limehouse, London
"Shkembe Soup are an explosion of swirling skirts, swishing tassels, rhythms & melodies from distant lands of Arabia, Turkey and Romania.
Their song and dance is vivacious and pulsating with a remarkable fusion of 14th century Andulusian songs, 80’s Araic pop and well-loved retro Rock & Roll from the likes of The Rolling Stones and great folk singers as Mary Hopkins.
Their beautiful, expressive and vibrant dance performance bring together North Africa and Turkey’s belly dancing and folk dancing style. An exciting dance is manifested through the fusion of flamenco, Hungarian, Romany & a Rock & Roll twist! "

Show of Hands with special guests Miranda Sykes and Rex Preston at Theatre on the Hill, St John's School, Marlborough, Wiltshire
"Steve and Phil present old favourites together with songs from their excellent new album, Wake the Union, which explores the common musical heritage of the UK and the USA."

Helen Nicholson at The Village Pump Folk Club, Lamb Inn, Mortimer Street, Trowbridge, Wiltshire
"singer songwriter from Shaftesbury, producing acoustic folk-inspired music that ranges from traditional sounding folk songs to more abstract material. Influences include the likes of Kate Bush, Joni Mitchell and Joan Baez. "

Bruce Molsky at The Ram Folk Club, Thames Ditton, Surrey
"Bruce Molsky stands today as the premier old-time fiddler in the world, the defining virtuoso of Appalachia's timeless folk music traditions."

The Curst Sons at The Horse & Groom, Islingword Road, Brighton, East Sussex BN2 9SH
"One of the best, if most unlikely, acts to come out of Brighton – hands down – this brilliant trio plays bluegrass, gospel and rockabilly as if their lives and loves depended on it, mixing Americana classics with tuneful originals full of superior lyrics." Time Out

Phillip Henry & Hannah Martin at Tom Thumb First Friday Folk & Roots Club, Margate, Kent
"Diverse & mesmerising young folk duo"

Belshazzar’s Feast at Ruskin Mill, Nailsworth, Gloucestershire
"Belshazzar's Feast consists of Paul Hutchinson on acordion and Paul Sartin on oboe, violin and vocals. The duo start with traditional folk music, add a touch of classical and jazz, throw in a bit of pop and music hall, and top it off wry humour for a unique live experience."

Marc Block at the Canalhouse, Nottingham NG1 7EH
"Launching his debut album The Hawthorn Spring, Marc is joined by Elly Lucas (fiddle/viola), Alex Cumming (accordion), Seth Tinsley (double bass) and local bluesman Jay Leivers (guitar), with a special guest appearances by Roy Bailey & Lucy Ward and support from Becky Syson"

Vamm at Eastgate Arts, Peebles, Scottish Borders
'Having previously played in bands that required tight unison playing, power and volume, VAMM formed out of a shared wish to explore the possibilities of harmony, melody and rhythm with like-minded musicians.
VAMM is not a traditional trio. Not in the way you might expect. Their repertoire doesn’t rely on the slow strathspeys, Shetland reels or Scandinavian polskas these musicians are best known for.
Contemporary tunes from the talents of Lau’s Aidan O’Rourke and composer Jim Sutherland sit alongside 19th century four-to-the-floor reels, modern pieces by up-and-coming musicians and the group’s own compositions. VAMM’s sound is led by the strength of the melody and harmonic beauty rather than their cultural backgrounds.'

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Saturday 4th May 2013

Errol Linton at Green Note, Camden, London
"Three times winner of ‘UK Blues Harmonica Player of the year’, Errol Linton plays eclectic British blues, but with a nod to his Carribbean heritage."

“Ederlezi 2013 – the Gypsy Spring Festival that celebrates Life” at Cecil Sharp House, 2 Regent's Park Road, Camden, London, NW1 7AY
'“Ederlezi” is the Romany Gypsy word that defines the mid-Spring festival, the time of the year when Nature awakens and rises again from the bitter winter colds. It is a feast of fresh water and fire, of heat replacing cold, of opposites completing and complementing each other, of synergy and unification, the coming together of all Elements for the regeneration of Life.
Ederlezi is a pan-European feast, and it still marks a cardinal date in South-Eastern European cultures. Joyful and colourful music is an indispensable element for this energetic and vivacious celebration of the resurgence of Life and Nature.
This year the 45-piece London Gypsy Orchestra, the biggest ensemble of its kind in Western Europe led by virtuoso violinist Gundula Gruen, celebrates this event with a musically and visually stunning evening performance on one of the best folk music stages in UK.' Trinity Folk Festival at Holy Trinity Church, Guildford, Surrey
An all day event featuring Belshazzar's Feast, Luke Jackson and more

Bruce Molsky at The Barn at The Three Horseshoes, Towersey Village, Oxfordshire
"Bruce Molsky stands today as the premier old-time fiddler in the world, the defining virtuoso of Appalachia's timeless folk music traditions."

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Sunday 5th May 2013

Bruce Molsky at The Chapel Arts Centre, Bath, Somerset
"Bruce Molsky stands today as the premier old-time fiddler in the world, the defining virtuoso of Appalachia's timeless folk music traditions."

The Urban Folk Quartet at Blue Boar Hotel, 1 Silver St, Town Centre, Maldon Essex CM9 4QE
“A sizzling hot ensemble who fuse folk with elements of dub, house and rock with an ease that shouldn’t naturally follow that list of genres. Built on the rhythms of a cajón-wielding percussionist and oud-playing bassist, the phenomenal fiddlers led the quartet in one of the tightest line-ups I have ever seen.” - Olivia Haughton, Songlines

Paul Brady at Artrix, Slideslow Drive, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire
"Paul Brady, singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, is one of Ireland’s most highly regarded and successful artists. He crosses musical boundaries again and again, incorporating folk, rock, blues traditional Irish & classic pop styles into his songwriting and can easily be compared to contemporaries such as Jackson Browne, Van Morrison and Mark Knopfler."

Chris Wood at Central Library Theatre, Sheffield
"Chris Wood has been nominated for BBC Folk Award 12 times and received 6 awards from just 3 albums. Handmade Lifewas his last album and the first time he put a band together - it was well received, winning touring support from Sound and Music and lead to a fair few of those awards."

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Monday 6th May 2013

Kerr Fagan at Green Note, Camden, London
“Groundbreaking English fiddle player and singer Nancy Kerr and her Australian partner James Fagan (bouzouki, voice) play a scintillating mix of traditional and contemporary acoustic music drawn mostly from the English and Australian traditions, and more recently Nancy Kerr’s original songs. They are renowned for their beautiful and at times breathtaking instrumentals, strong harmony singing, original and fulsome arrangements and their love of live performance."

Bing Lyle at Brighton Acoustic Session, The Lord Nelson, Trafalgar Street, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 4ED
"Although mostly heard in the company of other musicians Bing Lyle is a spellbinding solo performer. His deep understanding of the traditional music is evident in his flawless unaccompanied singing of some of our treasured ballads, yet he is best known for his mastery of the accordian. In his hands this often maligned instrument is heard in all its rich potential, from the orchestral complexity of jazz standards to the featherlight texturing of a simple lyric. An accomplished flautist and guitar player, he has also written some memorable songs of his own."

Kyle Carey and Josienne Clarke and Ben Walker at Folk at the Prospect, Weston Village, Runcorn, Cheshire
"The ingredients of Kyle Carey’s music include the songs of the American Folk Anthology, influences of Irish, Scottish and Cape Breton traditional music, and the Appalachian poetry of Louise McNeill."
"Those who have been following the folk revival movement will already know about Josienne Clarke and Ben Walker. Both classically trained, Josienne's voice and style has been compared to June Tabor, and Ben's vintage guitar and mandolin lend the perfect musical tact."

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Tuesday 7th May 2013

Christa Couture + A. P. Clarke at Green Note, Camden, London
Two Singer Songwriters

Singer Songwriter Night at The Horse, 124 Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7XG
A number of featuring singer songwriters alongside an open mic spot.

Bruce Molsky at Dartford Folk Club, Dartford, Kent
"Bruce Molsky stands today as the premier old-time fiddler in the world, the defining virtuoso of Appalachia's timeless folk music traditions."

Nick Dow at The Great Knight Folk Club, Northampton
"Nick Dow has returned to the Folk Scene after a long abscence. He spent several years building up his business of Signwriting and building and restoring Gypsy Wagons. Nick has a brand new repertoire of Traditional songs, gleaned from books, recordings, and some he collected on the many song collecting trips made with his wife Mally."

Kyle Carey and Josienne Clarke and Ben Walker at The Musician, Leicester
"The ingredients of Kyle Carey’s music include the songs of the American Folk Anthology, influences of Irish, Scottish and Cape Breton traditional music, and the Appalachian poetry of Louise McNeill."
"Those who have been following the folk revival movement will already know about Josienne Clarke and Ben Walker. Both classically trained, Josienne's voice and style has been compared to June Tabor, and Ben's vintage guitar and mandolin lend the perfect musical tact."

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Wednesday 8th May 2013

The Stamp Collective at The Old Queen's Head, Angel, London
"From the heart of London comes a group of inspired young musicians who reflect the diverse styles of the big city. With a core love for folk music the players who originate from Ireland, England, Spain, America and beyond come together to blend original and traditional tunes with infectiously dancable blues, rock and funk grooves. The 15 strong band includes everything from virtuoso fiddlers to master drummers and monster brass riffs to beautiful voices."

Sekou Koyate and Joe Driscoll at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire
"Sekou Kouyaté and Joe Driscoll’s first collaboration was in Marseille’s Nuits Metis Festival. Though they Shared no common spoken language, this Guinea-born singer / Kora player and New York rapper had no difficulty communicating through their music. Kindred spirits, after a few weeks improvising and jamming together they found a spiritual and musical bond – an extraordinary fusion of World, Afrobeat, Hip-Hop, Folk and Reggae that defies description yet commands attention. Featured at WOMAD last summer, they’re winning international world music interest with tours to India, Kenya, America and Croatia as well as London’s Southbank Centre."

Polly Barrett and The Coarse Envelope at Seend Acoustic Club, Seend, Wiltshire
'Cork-based singer/ songwriter Polly Barrett returns to Wiltshire, with her heartfelt songs of love and loss. Support from Bristol’s The Coarse Envelope.'

Kyle Carey and Josienne Clarke and Ben Walker at Ragged Trousered Folk, High Street, Hastings Old Town, East Sussex
"The ingredients of Kyle Carey’s music include the songs of the American Folk Anthology, influences of Irish, Scottish and Cape Breton traditional music, and the Appalachian poetry of Louise McNeill."
"Those who have been following the folk revival movement will already know about Josienne Clarke and Ben Walker. Both classically trained, Josienne's voice and style has been compared to June Tabor, and Ben's vintage guitar and mandolin lend the perfect musical tact."

Bruce Molsky at Baldock and Letchworth Folk Club, Baldock, Hertfordshire
"Bruce Molsky stands today as the premier old-time fiddler in the world, the defining virtuoso of Appalachia's timeless folk music traditions."

The Fureys & Davey Arthur at Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan, Ceredigion
"These legends of Irish music & song make their 4th appearance at Mwldan. Renowned for their hit songs I will love you, When you were sweet 16, The Green fields of France, The old man, Red rose café, From Clare to here, Her father didn’t like me anyway, Leaving Nancy, Steal away etc, the Fureys & Davey Arthur have been entertaining audiences worldwide for 35 years."

Belshazzar’s Feast at Greystones, Sheffield, South Yorkshire
"Belshazzar's Feast consists of Paul Hutchinson on acordion and Paul Sartin on oboe, violin and vocals. The duo start with traditional folk music, add a touch of classical and jazz, throw in a bit of pop and music hall, and top it off wry humour for a unique live experience."

Vamm at The Universal Hall, Findhorn, Moray
'Having previously played in bands that required tight unison playing, power and volume, VAMM formed out of a shared wish to explore the possibilities of harmony, melody and rhythm with like-minded musicians.
VAMM is not a traditional trio. Not in the way you might expect. Their repertoire doesn’t rely on the slow strathspeys, Shetland reels or Scandinavian polskas these musicians are best known for.
Contemporary tunes from the talents of Lau’s Aidan O’Rourke and composer Jim Sutherland sit alongside 19th century four-to-the-floor reels, modern pieces by up-and-coming musicians and the group’s own compositions. VAMM’s sound is led by the strength of the melody and harmonic beauty rather than their cultural backgrounds.'

Peter Nardini at Dunfermline Folk Club, Dunfermline, Fife
"A singer and songwriter from Lanarkshire who has been performedd and writing many well known songs for a number of years. Peter's new album on Temple Records 'HUG' was nominated in two categories in the 2012 new Scottish music awards - Best New Record and best Folk Traditonal Recording."

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Thursday 9th May 2013

Gilmore & Roberts at Green Note, Camden, London
"Astounding lap-tapping guitar, fiery fiddle and trademark harmonies combined with considerable songwriting talent to make a truly distinctive sound."

Spiers and Boden at The Atkinson, Lord Street, Southport, Merseyside PR8 1DB
"Twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk awards for Best Duo, Spiers and Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground."

Kyle Carey and Josienne Clarke and Ben Walker at The Topic Folk Club, Bradford, West Yorkshire
"The ingredients of Kyle Carey’s music include the songs of the American Folk Anthology, influences of Irish, Scottish and Cape Breton traditional music, and the Appalachian poetry of Louise McNeill."
"Those who have been following the folk revival movement will already know about Josienne Clarke and Ben Walker. Both classically trained, Josienne's voice and style has been compared to June Tabor, and Ben's vintage guitar and mandolin lend the perfect musical tact."

The Urban Folk Quartet at Hebden Bridge Trades Club, Holme St, Town Centre, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire HX7 8EE
“A sizzling hot ensemble who fuse folk with elements of dub, house and rock with an ease that shouldn’t naturally follow that list of genres. Built on the rhythms of a cajón-wielding percussionist and oud-playing bassist, the phenomenal fiddlers led the quartet in one of the tightest line-ups I have ever seen.” - Olivia Haughton, Songlines

Singers and Musicians Night at The Black Swan Folk Club, York, North Yorkshire
Lively open house session

Belshazzar’s Feast at The Cumberland Arms, Newcastle Upon Tyne
"Belshazzar's Feast consists of Paul Hutchinson on acordion and Paul Sartin on oboe, violin and vocals. The duo start with traditional folk music, add a touch of classical and jazz, throw in a bit of pop and music hall, and top it off wry humour for a unique live experience."

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Friday 10th May 2013

The Hut People at Green Note, Camden, London
"A truly unique blend of home-grown tunes mixed with British, Nordic and European folk music, perfectly formed & embellished with the driving accordion and a dazzling array of exotic percussion"

Billy Bones at Jamboree, Limehouse, London 3:00pm - Free Entry
"Billy Bones headed by Songwriter/front man Rod Hughes formed in 2010, the band today met in London and have been together for just over 2 years.
Rod's style of writing is unique, he has carved a new genre "gypsy indie" with a bit of a Victorian theatrical feel.
"An anarchic ensemble of musicians, the likes of which you have never seen or heard — prepare to be breached!""

James Hickman & Dan Cassidy at The Old Nuns Head, Nunhead, South London
"Hickman’s emotive, soaring vocals and driving guitar is complemented by Cassidy’s ingenious and virtuosic fiddling. Their sound flows from the connection between British and American folk and is bursting with all the humour, heartbreak and excitement of these genres. The lively English wit of Hickman is set against Cassidy’s bone-dry irony and American drawl as they take audiences on a dynamic and unforgettable transatlantic journey."

Ewan McLennan at The Village Pump Folk Club, Lamb Inn, Mortimer Street, Trowbridge, Wiltshire
"emerging folk artist that has been making headlines. His music combines traditional folk, with an inevitable focus on the music of Scotland, as well as his own self-penned songs that are receiving critical acclaim in their own right. Support from Paul Rogers a singer, songwriter and guitarist who draws on a variety of musical styles."

Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer at Folk On The Coast, Bognor Regis, West Sussex
"Vicki & Jonny effortlessly blend traditional material with contemporary interpretations whilst equally creating original self penned tunes and songs that are entirely at home in the tradition. Out of this combination they have developed a sound that is both familiar and fresh. Strong believers in letting the music tradition live and breathe through sensitive interpretation, Vicki and Jonny allow the melody to sing without any constraints."

Gilmore Roberts at Grayshott Folk Club, Grayshott, Nr Hindhead, Surrey
Contemporary folk/acoustic duo Gilmore & Roberts combine award-winning songwriting with astounding lap-tapping guitar, fiery fiddle and their trademark harmonies, creating a powerful wall of sound. Their third album 'The Innocent Left', recorded in London with producer Julian Simmons (Guillemots, Ed Sheeran, Albert Lee), explores many and varied topics but remains consistently bound by Gilmore & Roberts' passion for stories.
Katriona Gilmore (The Albion Band) and Jamie Roberts (Kerfuffle) began working together in 2006, releasing their first full-length album 'Shadows & Half Light' two years later. In 2010 the duo were nominated for the BBC Radio 2 Horizon Award and released their hotly anticipated second album, 'Up From The Deep', receiving national airplay and achieving a 'Best Original Song' Hancock Award for 'Fleetwood Fair' from the album.

The Urban Folk Quartet at St. John’s Church, Farncombe, Surrey GU7 3EH
“A sizzling hot ensemble who fuse folk with elements of dub, house and rock with an ease that shouldn’t naturally follow that list of genres. Built on the rhythms of a cajón-wielding percussionist and oud-playing bassist, the phenomenal fiddlers led the quartet in one of the tightest line-ups I have ever seen.” - Olivia Haughton, Songlines

Jeana Leslie & Siobhan Miller with Aaron Jones at The Ram Folk Club, Thames Ditton, Surrey
"JEANA and SIOBHAN are two hugely talented lasses from Orkney and Edinburgh. Jeana plays fiddle, Hardanger fiddle and piano and also plays in top Irish band CARA. Siobhan sings, dances & has been winning competitions since the age of 13. Both are blessed with lovely, natural voices that blend beautifully and lend themselves equally well to traditional, contemporary and self-penned songs. They’ve won several awards including the BBC Young Folk Award in 2008, and they have a freshness in performance, personality, instrumental prowess and spot-on harmonies that give them an instantly recognisable style. They have performed extensively throughout the UK and Europe and have made two acclaimed albums. Tonight, as a special bonus, they are bringing the immense talents of AARON JONES on guitar & bouzouki - a man well-known to us."

Bella Hardy And The Midnight Watch at Cornerstone Arts Centre, 25 Station Road, Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 7NE
"Bella’s songwriting has been compared to Lennon and McCartney in sophistication, Kate Bush in fantasy and Carole King in lovelorn tenderness. Performing songs from Bella’s new album battleplan, her five piece band includes Bella on fiddle, with double bass, drums and percussion, keyboards and Anna Massie on guitar."

Belshazzar’s Feast at Norwich Folk Club, Norwich, Cheshire
"Belshazzar's Feast consists of Paul Hutchinson on acordion and Paul Sartin on oboe, violin and vocals. The duo start with traditional folk music, add a touch of classical and jazz, throw in a bit of pop and music hall, and top it off wry humour for a unique live experience."

Spiers and Boden at National Forest Folk Club, The Moira Miners’ Welfare, Moira, nr. Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire
"Twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk awards for Best Duo, Spiers and Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground."

Landermason at Reeth Memorial Hall, Reeth nr Richmond, North Yorkshire, DL11 6QT
"Fiona Lander and Paul Mason have been writing, recording and performing together for 10 years. 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 arrangement.
Support by young folk trio Horizontal Sunday on fiddles, melodion and clarsach."

Vamm at The Met, Bury, Greater Manchester
'Having previously played in bands that required tight unison playing, power and volume, VAMM formed out of a shared wish to explore the possibilities of harmony, melody and rhythm with like-minded musicians.
VAMM is not a traditional trio. Not in the way you might expect. Their repertoire doesn’t rely on the slow strathspeys, Shetland reels or Scandinavian polskas these musicians are best known for.
Contemporary tunes from the talents of Lau’s Aidan O’Rourke and composer Jim Sutherland sit alongside 19th century four-to-the-floor reels, modern pieces by up-and-coming musicians and the group’s own compositions. VAMM’s sound is led by the strength of the melody and harmonic beauty rather than their cultural backgrounds.'

Mirrortones at New Longton Village Hall, Boundary Close, New Longton, Preston, Lancashire PR4 4BD

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Saturday 11th May 2013

The Toy Hearts at Green Note, Camden, London
"Traditional and contemporary bluegrass and western swing from this award-winning family band!"

Somerset folk songs workshop at Curry Rivel near Langport, Somerset (10.30am – 4.30pm)
"Ancient songs, modern arrangements! A chance to explore the stories, history and medley of melodies found in our own traditional songs from Somerset, including some from around Curry Rivel itself. Catherine has arranged the songs with gripping harmonies and rhythms to bring them to life. All taught by ear, so no need to be able to read music, but some dots will be available. This is open to everyone, whatever your musical background. The venue is a lovely recently refurbished hall in a lovely location by the village green"

Vamm at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire
Catriona Macdonald and Patsy Reid fiddles, Marit Fält mandola
"With a new album out in Spring ‘13, this hugely exciting band boasts three highly experienced musicians – Catriona Macdonald (Blazing Fiddles), Patsy Reid (Breabach) draw capacity crowds. Shetlandic for ‘bewitch and entrance’, Vamm weaves melody and harmony in a sound so splendid that it bursts with texture and groove. You’re wrapped in it – yet it’s music full of contrast and intimacy too, subtly inflected with traditions from Shetland, Perth and Norway. They relish the unlimited possibilities that great melodies possess and play with an infectious sense of fun and exuberance. Thrilling stuff!"

Red Shoes at The RMA Tavern, 21 Sansome Street, Worcester WR1
"Following on from their successful debut album Ring Around The Land featuring Celtic Moon as covered by Fairport Convention, Red Shoes have now released the follow up All The Good Friends. Drawing heavily on English folk roots music combined with American influences, this album sees them growing in maturity, whilst also expanding their ever growing fan base. A set full of songs which take you on an emotional journey, their live performances are known to be both passionate and spellbinding. “All The Good Friends: Classic folk rock” (FATEA Magazine). “All the Good Friends: A recording that warms the heart yet pleases the ear” (ELOBF)."

Belshazzar’s Feast at Presteigne Assembly Room, Presteigne, Powys
"Belshazzar's Feast consists of Paul Hutchinson on acordion and Paul Sartin on oboe, violin and vocals. The duo start with traditional folk music, add a touch of classical and jazz, throw in a bit of pop and music hall, and top it off wry humour for a unique live experience."

Kyle Carey and Josienne Clarke and Ben Walker at The Ort Art and Community Cafe, Balsall Heath, Birmingham
"The ingredients of Kyle Carey’s music include the songs of the American Folk Anthology, influences of Irish, Scottish and Cape Breton traditional music, and the Appalachian poetry of Louise McNeill."
"Those who have been following the folk revival movement will already know about Josienne Clarke and Ben Walker. Both classically trained, Josienne's voice and style has been compared to June Tabor, and Ben's vintage guitar and mandolin lend the perfect musical tact."

Spiers and Boden at Victoria Hall, Victoria Road, Saltaire, nr. Bradford, West Yorkshire BD18 3JS
"Twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk awards for Best Duo, Spiers and Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground."

Union Jill at The National Centre for Early Music, York, North Yorkshire
"Sharon Winfield and Helen Turner’s voices blend together in spellbinding harmony in a mix of acoustic guitars and mandola. They launch their new album “Respectable Rebellion” at the NCEM in a one-off full band concert."

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Sunday 12th May 2013

Woody Pines at Green Note, Camden, London
"An intoxicating blend of rural and urban stringband, country blues, ragtime and jug band music" Maverick

Worldly Savages’ Carny Banging Fayre! at Jamboree, Limehouse, London 3:00pm - Free Entry
""Contagious Punk Folk Energy with Ethno Music Spiciness. Wild Music with a strong message to Fight Boring Post-Modernity!"
A band in the true trans-national Gypsy Punk tradition, part Eastern European, Western European & North American, Worldly Savages has been a cosmopolitan and international band from its inception. Started in Belgrade, Serbia in 2008 by Erik Mut, a musician from Canada of Slavic, German & Celtic ethnicity who travelled to Serbia to find creative inspiration. The band grew up in Toronto, Canada & London, England and matured touring all around Europe."

FREE Singaround at The Old Nuns Head, Nunhead, South London
"Our Free Singaround welcomes everybody, whether to sing or to listen!"

Vamm at Nailsea Folk Club, Nailsea, Somerset
'Having previously played in bands that required tight unison playing, power and volume, VAMM formed out of a shared wish to explore the possibilities of harmony, melody and rhythm with like-minded musicians.
VAMM is not a traditional trio. Not in the way you might expect. Their repertoire doesn’t rely on the slow strathspeys, Shetland reels or Scandinavian polskas these musicians are best known for.
Contemporary tunes from the talents of Lau’s Aidan O’Rourke and composer Jim Sutherland sit alongside 19th century four-to-the-floor reels, modern pieces by up-and-coming musicians and the group’s own compositions. VAMM’s sound is led by the strength of the melody and harmonic beauty rather than their cultural backgrounds.'

The Urban Folk Quartet at Bournemouth Folk Club, Bournemouth, Dorset
“A sizzling hot ensemble who fuse folk with elements of dub, house and rock with an ease that shouldn’t naturally follow that list of genres. Built on the rhythms of a cajón-wielding percussionist and oud-playing bassist, the phenomenal fiddlers led the quartet in one of the tightest line-ups I have ever seen.” - Olivia Haughton, Songlines

Kyle Carey and Josienne Clarke and Ben Walker at Neptune Live Music Bar, Hove, East Sussex
"The ingredients of Kyle Carey’s music include the songs of the American Folk Anthology, influences of Irish, Scottish and Cape Breton traditional music, and the Appalachian poetry of Louise McNeill."
"Those who have been following the folk revival movement will already know about Josienne Clarke and Ben Walker. Both classically trained, Josienne's voice and style has been compared to June Tabor, and Ben's vintage guitar and mandolin lend the perfect musical tact."

Spiers and Boden at The Met, Bury, Greater Manchester BL9 0BW
"Twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk awards for Best Duo, Spiers and Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground."

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Monday 13th May 2013

Vamm at Silver Street Sessions, Wiveliscombe, Taunton, Somerset
'Having previously played in bands that required tight unison playing, power and volume, VAMM formed out of a shared wish to explore the possibilities of harmony, melody and rhythm with like-minded musicians.
VAMM is not a traditional trio. Not in the way you might expect. Their repertoire doesn’t rely on the slow strathspeys, Shetland reels or Scandinavian polskas these musicians are best known for.
Contemporary tunes from the talents of Lau’s Aidan O’Rourke and composer Jim Sutherland sit alongside 19th century four-to-the-floor reels, modern pieces by up-and-coming musicians and the group’s own compositions. VAMM’s sound is led by the strength of the melody and harmonic beauty rather than their cultural backgrounds.'

A celebration of the music of Patsy Cline at The Latest MusicBar, 14-17 Manchester Street, Brighton, Sussex
A live band show by the Shauna Parker Band (aka Crazy Shauna) featuring a posse a Brighton’s best musicians, including Glen Richardson (Brighton Beach Boys) on keyboards, Francois DeVille (The Diablos) on pedal steel, Scott Warman (Saloon Bar Band) on double bass, Matt Windler (Long Tall Texans) on guitar and Dil Davies (Oysterband) on percussion.

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Tuesday 14th May 2013

Singaround at Folk at the Duke, The Duke of York, 7 Roger Street, London WC1N 2PB
Floor singers welcome.
£5 entry.

Thornbridge at Bradford Folk Club, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire
"Thornbridge simply make beautiful music, taking inspiration from the folk song tradition throughout the British Isles as well as more contemporary sources. They write and arrange their own songs too. They've appeared at clubs and festivals from Minehead to Grimsby and Swanage to Penrith. The line-up of Barbara and Andy Rusbridge and Guy Hawthorn bring three quite different voices together to make a distinctive "Thornbridge" sound that is rich and complex, injecting new life into old songs with expression, subtle harmony and gentle instrumentation. Their warm, inclusive performances tell the story in every song with passion and good humour in equal measure."

Vamm at The Hawth, Crawley, West Sussex
'Having previously played in bands that required tight unison playing, power and volume, VAMM formed out of a shared wish to explore the possibilities of harmony, melody and rhythm with like-minded musicians.
VAMM is not a traditional trio. Not in the way you might expect. Their repertoire doesn’t rely on the slow strathspeys, Shetland reels or Scandinavian polskas these musicians are best known for.
Contemporary tunes from the talents of Lau’s Aidan O’Rourke and composer Jim Sutherland sit alongside 19th century four-to-the-floor reels, modern pieces by up-and-coming musicians and the group’s own compositions. VAMM’s sound is led by the strength of the melody and harmonic beauty rather than their cultural backgrounds.'

Jeana Lesley & Siobhan Miller at Dartford Folk Club, Dartford, Kent
Winners of the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award 2008

Colum Sands at The Hoy at Anchor Folk Club, Westcliff 0n Sea, Essex
"Colum Sands is a universal storyteller who draws on a long Irish tradition of poetic musicality to weave songs for the world."

Mollie O'Brien & Rich Moore at The Three Horseshoes, Towersey, Oxfordshire
"an intoxicating blend of rural and urban stringband, country blues, ragtime and jug band music " - Maverick magazine

Eliza Carthy & Jim Moray at The Glee Club, Cardiff
"Eliza Carthy has been recording and touring for twenty one years. Jim Moray has been recording and touring for ten years. And they want to celebrate.
To mark these milestones, the two multi-award winners have mustered an all-star band, featuring many of the leading figures from their careers, for a one-off tour.
Eliza and Jim will play career spanning, 'Best Of' sets in a spectacular, once in a lifetime show."

Spiers and Boden at The Kirkgate Centre, Cockermouth, Cumbria CA13 9PJ
"Twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk awards for Best Duo, Spiers and Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground."

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Wednesday 15th May 2013

Vamm at Green Note, Camden, London
'Vamm, meaning to bewitch or enchant in Shetland dialect, is the new trio partnership between those islands’ leading female fiddler, Catriona Macdonald (formerly of Blazin’ Fiddles), her Perthshire co-instrumentalist Patsy Reid (formerly of Breabach) and Marit Fält – from Norway, of Swedish parentage – on Låtmandola, an octave mandolin with an additional bass string and “various other extras”.'

Martin Simpson at The West End Centre, Aldershot, Hampshire
Widely acknowledged as one of the finest acoustic and slide guitar players in the world, Simpson’s interpretations of traditional songs are masterpieces of storytelling.

The Curst Sons at The Fox Goes Free Charlton, Nr Chichester, West Sussex PO18 0HU
"One of the best, if most unlikely, acts to come out of Brighton – hands down – this brilliant trio plays bluegrass, gospel and rockabilly as if their lives and loves depended on it, mixing Americana classics with tuneful originals full of superior lyrics." Time Out

Bruce Molsky at The Red Lion Folk Club, Birmingham
"Bruce Molsky stands today as the premier old-time fiddler in the world, the defining virtuoso of Appalachia's timeless folk music traditions."

Show Of Hands at Artrix, Slideslow Drive, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire
"Steve Knightley, who writes most of their material and Phil Beer, a dazzling multi instrumentalist, have built up a huge following which has seen them sell out the Royal Albert Hall three times. Miranda Sykes has been performing with Show of Hands since 2004, augmenting their unique sound with her powerful double bass and rich harmonies."

Spiers and Boden at Guildhall Arts Centre, St. Peter’s Hill, Grantham, Lincolnshire NG31 6PZ
"Twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk awards for Best Duo, Spiers and Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground."

Scott Murray at Dunfermline Folk Club, Dunfermline, Fife
"A veteran of the Fife Folk scene from Kirkcaldy, Scott is probably best known as the sonorous bass voice that underpins the harmony singing of the Sangsters. However his fame recently took a jump when his first solo album EVENIN'S FA' was nominated for a Scottish Traditional Music Award. Expect stories and songs about Fife and beyond, and maybe a song from his wife Anne as well."

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Thursday 16th May 2013

Clive Gregson at Green Note, Camden, London
“…a powerful and vital force in contemporary music.” fROOTS

Mistaken Identity at Loughton Folk Club, Loughton Club, 8 Station Road, Loughton, Essex IG10 4NX
"A new 'old boy' band comprising four fellas singing mainly a cappella four-part harmony from pop and easy rock to traditional folk music, from the serious to the whimsical, but all seriously good."

Belshazzar’s Feast at The Old Brewery Store, Conduit Street, Faversham, Kent ME13 7AX
"Belshazzar's Feast consists of Paul Hutchinson on acordion and Paul Sartin on oboe, violin and vocals. The duo start with traditional folk music, add a touch of classical and jazz, throw in a bit of pop and music hall, and top it off wry humour for a unique live experience."

Spiers and Boden at Theatr Brycheiniog, Canal Wharf, Brecon, Powys LD3 7EW
"Twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk awards for Best Duo, Spiers and Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground."

Vamm at The Liverpool Philharmonic, Liverpool, Merseyside
'Having previously played in bands that required tight unison playing, power and volume, VAMM formed out of a shared wish to explore the possibilities of harmony, melody and rhythm with like-minded musicians.
VAMM is not a traditional trio. Not in the way you might expect. Their repertoire doesn’t rely on the slow strathspeys, Shetland reels or Scandinavian polskas these musicians are best known for.
Contemporary tunes from the talents of Lau’s Aidan O’Rourke and composer Jim Sutherland sit alongside 19th century four-to-the-floor reels, modern pieces by up-and-coming musicians and the group’s own compositions. VAMM’s sound is led by the strength of the melody and harmonic beauty rather than their cultural backgrounds.'

James Hickman & Dan Cassidy at Hollingwood Hub, Chesterfield, Derbyshire
Hickman and Cassidy are a transatlantic duo inspired by the traditions of America and Britain.
James Hickman (UK) brings his driving guitar playing and unique musical interpretation to their mix of old and new roots music. Dan Cassidy (USA), a virtuoso musician, provides an array of fiddle melodies and harmony singing. Dan is the brother of Eva Cassidy and performed on some of his late sister's recordings.
Their sound flows from the connection between British and American folk and is bursting with all the humour, heartbreak and excitement of these genres. The lively English wit of Hickman is set against Cassidy’s bone-dry irony and American drawl as they take audiences on a dynamic and unforgettable transatlantic journey.

Bruce Molsky at The Met, Bury, Greater Manchester
"Bruce Molsky stands today as the premier old-time fiddler in the world, the defining virtuoso of Appalachia's timeless folk music traditions."

Steve and Ruth Smith at The Topic Folk Club, Bradford, West Yorkshire
"Steve and Ruth Smith from the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina play a unique blend of Appalachian Americana music featuring hammered dulcimer, mountain dulcimer, guitar, and old-time banjo."

Lady Maisery at The Black Swan Folk Club, York, North Yorkshire
"Superb singing from Hannah James, Hazel Askew and Rowan Rheingans with accordion, harp and fiddle accompaniment"

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Friday 17th May 2013

Nuala Kennedy at Green Note, Camden, London
Nuala Kennedy is an Irish singer and flute player whose music features liltingly beautiful vocals, adventurous instrumentation, and an imaginative mix of influences.

Mike Nisbet at The Heathcote Arms 344 Grove Green Road Leytonstone, East London E11 4EA
"Giging solo with his acoustic guitar, Nisbet knows how to hold an audience in the palm of his hand, holding the room as they listen to the stories of lost love, homelessness, family and the blues." The Carrivick Sisters at St Lalluwy’s Church, Menheniot, Nr Liskeard, Cornwall
"Identical twin sisters Charlotte and Laura Carrivick grew up in Devon, playing and writing music together. Their unique style shows their strong bluegrass influences without obscuring their English folk roots. With tight harmonies that only siblings can achieve, they perform their own songs, as well as other favourites, on guitar, fiddle, mandolin, dobro and clawhammer banjo."
Tickets cost £8.50 (advance) £10.00 (at the door) and will be available from 20th April. Call 01579 347859 to book. Also, locals can buy tickets from the Spar Shop Menheniot or Liskeard Museum.

The Urban Folk Quartet at Bristol Folkhouse, 40A Park St, Bristol, Avon
“A sizzling hot ensemble who fuse folk with elements of dub, house and rock with an ease that shouldn’t naturally follow that list of genres. Built on the rhythms of a cajón-wielding percussionist and oud-playing bassist, the phenomenal fiddlers led the quartet in one of the tightest line-ups I have ever seen.” - Olivia Haughton, Songlines

Open Mic at The Village Pump Folk Club, Lamb Inn, Mortimer Street, Trowbridge, Wiltshire
"What’s not to like? Some of the best locally based singers and musicians as well as some unexpected visitors from further afield have turned up to play at past Open Mic evenings. We say you won’t find better value than this."

Clive Gregson at The Ram Folk Club, Thames Ditton, Surrey
"One of the Crown Jewels of English songwriters and a guitarist to boot, in the 80s CLIVE fronted rock band ANY TROUBLE, then in the 90s formed a ground-breaking duo with CHRISTINE COLLISTER, toured regularly as part of RICHARD THOMPSON's band then with EDDIE READER and BOO HEWERDINE, and in 2005 with the NANCI GRIFFITH band. A songwriter with an acute ear for the minutiae of life, his highly - original, catchy songs have been recorded far and wide. 2007 saw the long-awaited reunion of Any Trouble and a new album 'Life in Reverse'. Now based in Nashville, Clive is as busy as ever, writing, touring, collaborating (he has a new guitar trio with Andy Roberts & Mark Griffiths) and has a brand new album out, "Without Further Ado" and is ‘delighted the way the tunes have worked out’. Expect a good airing of the album tonight!"

The Curst Sons at The Con Club, Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 1XS
"One of the best, if most unlikely, acts to come out of Brighton – hands down – this brilliant trio plays bluegrass, gospel and rockabilly as if their lives and loves depended on it, mixing Americana classics with tuneful originals full of superior lyrics." Time Out

Seth Lakeman at Oxford Town Hall, Oxford, Oxfordshire
"The musical equivalent to a bodice ripping blockbuster"

Eska at Cornerstone Arts Centre, 25 Station Road, Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 7NE
"Eska is phenomenal. A world class vocalist, writer and arranger, she has been the voice of mainstream band Zero 7 as well as working with The Cinematic Orchestra, Bobby McFerrin and Grace Jones. Grace, Giles Peterson and Courtney Pine are massive fans. And so will you be.
Zimbabwe born and London raised, Eska has been a secret weapon of the music industry, but now reveals an outstanding debut solo album with ‘Gatekeeper’, released in March 2013.
Here in a duo with Robin Mullarky on bass and cello they play us music from Eska’s new album. Folk with influences of jazz and choral music."

Spiers and Boden at The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 5NX
"Twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk awards for Best Duo, Spiers and Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground."

Bruce Molsky at The Greystones, Sheffield, South Yorkshire
"Bruce Molsky stands today as the premier old-time fiddler in the world, the defining virtuoso of Appalachia's timeless folk music traditions."

Vamm at Tayvallich Village Hall, Tayvallich, Argyll
'Having previously played in bands that required tight unison playing, power and volume, VAMM formed out of a shared wish to explore the possibilities of harmony, melody and rhythm with like-minded musicians.
VAMM is not a traditional trio. Not in the way you might expect. Their repertoire doesn’t rely on the slow strathspeys, Shetland reels or Scandinavian polskas these musicians are best known for.
Contemporary tunes from the talents of Lau’s Aidan O’Rourke and composer Jim Sutherland sit alongside 19th century four-to-the-floor reels, modern pieces by up-and-coming musicians and the group’s own compositions. VAMM’s sound is led by the strength of the melody and harmonic beauty rather than their cultural backgrounds.'

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Saturday 18th May 2013

Bluesmix at Green Note, Camden, London
"Superb! If you like your Blues honest and interesting I recommend you check out BluesMix." BluesMatters Magazine

Shooglenifty at The Phoenix, Exeter, Devon
"Shooglenifty’s sound marries traditionally based tunes - primarily Scottish in style, but featuring a wealth of other world-music flavours - with the rhythmic energy, inventiveness and sophistication of contemporary dance music. Such a description, though, hardly begins to capture the dazzling multi-layered intricacy, exquisitely jewelled lyricism and intoxicating, coruscating grooves that are Shooglenifty's hallmarks."

Jenna Witts at Gillingham Methodist Church, High St, Gillingham, Dorset
"North Devon singer-songwriter Jenna Witts is a free spirit with an effortless natural talent. Writing songs from the age of 12, she is an accomplished keyboards player and acoustic guitarist who comes to life on stage with her infectious laugh and humour – then silences everyone with her startlingly mature voice, sass, attitude and elegance, to deliver wonderfully melodic songs; inspired by the sea, surf, love and life of the coast and beyond."

Spiers and Boden at Colston Hall, Colston Street, Bristol BS1 5AR
"Twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk awards for Best Duo, Spiers and Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground."

Henry Priestman and Killing No Murder at Seend Acoustic Club, Seend, Wiltshire
'Ex-Christians frontman Henry Priestman returns to the club. Last year’s gig was a complete sell-out, so please order tickets (£7.50 in advance) from Malcolm on 01380 827041. Support is from local Trowbridge band, the ever-popular Killing No Murder. On Sunday 19th there will be a day long music workshop with Henry. Please phone for details.'

Wolverton Folk and Blues Festivalat Wolverton Manor, Shorwell, Newport, Isle of Wight
"The live music stage will provide a full programme, featuring the best of the Island’s Folk & Blues musicians, from solo acoustic to full electric bands. The line-up includes The Sail Pattern, The Wild Oats, The MoonShiners, Holly Kirby, Nick Cane Band, Laurie McVay & Tony Farinha, The Herd and Clive Thomas with more to be confirmed."

Belshazzar’s Feast at Lewes Saturday Folk Club, Lewes, East Sussex
"Belshazzar's Feast consists of Paul Hutchinson on acordion and Paul Sartin on oboe, violin and vocals. The duo start with traditional folk music, add a touch of classical and jazz, throw in a bit of pop and music hall, and top it off wry humour for a unique live experience."

The Urban Folk Quartet at The Yardbird, Paradise Circus, Queensway, Birmingham
“A sizzling hot ensemble who fuse folk with elements of dub, house and rock with an ease that shouldn’t naturally follow that list of genres. Built on the rhythms of a cajón-wielding percussionist and oud-playing bassist, the phenomenal fiddlers led the quartet in one of the tightest line-ups I have ever seen.” - Olivia Haughton, Songlines

Kieran Goss at Broseley's Birchmeadow, Broseley, Shropshire TF12 5LP
"Long hailed as one of Ireland's leading songwriters and performers, Kieran Goss’s music has won him fans across the globe. But if his songs have made him a star, his live shows have made him a legend. Live on stage is where Kieran Goss really shines."

Bruce Molsky at The Davy Lamp Folk Club, Washington, Tyne and Wear
"Bruce Molsky stands today as the premier old-time fiddler in the world, the defining virtuoso of Appalachia's timeless folk music traditions."

Vamm at Woodend Barn, Banchory, Aberdeenshire
'Having previously played in bands that required tight unison playing, power and volume, VAMM formed out of a shared wish to explore the possibilities of harmony, melody and rhythm with like-minded musicians.
VAMM is not a traditional trio. Not in the way you might expect. Their repertoire doesn’t rely on the slow strathspeys, Shetland reels or Scandinavian polskas these musicians are best known for.
Contemporary tunes from the talents of Lau’s Aidan O’Rourke and composer Jim Sutherland sit alongside 19th century four-to-the-floor reels, modern pieces by up-and-coming musicians and the group’s own compositions. VAMM’s sound is led by the strength of the melody and harmonic beauty rather than their cultural backgrounds.'

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Sunday 19th May 2013

Ray Cooper at Green Note, Camden, London
Ray Cooper aka Chopper from Oysterband - Born of of Scottish mother and an English father, Ray Cooper grew up in England and started to play in bands when he was 16. Moving between rock, punk, pop and world music, and working as a singer, bass guitar player and cellist, he finally hooked up with Oysterband in 1988 and began a long exploration into his own roots.

Clara Sanabras & The Elysian Quartet at The Forge, Camden, London
"Acclaimed songstress Clara Sanabras pairs up with renowned Elysian Quartet to present songs from her awaited new album Scattered Flight, Songs of Exile. A homage to the experience of exile, told in Spanish, Catalan, French and English."

Spiers and Boden at The Phoenix, Exeter, Devon EX4 3LS
"Twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk awards for Best Duo, Spiers and Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground."

Eliza Cathy and Jim Moray at The De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill on Sea, East Sussex
"Eliza Carthy has been recording and touring for twenty one years. Jim Moray has been recording and touring for ten years. And they want to celebrate.
To mark these milestones, the two multi-award winners have mustered an all-star band, featuring many of the leading figures from their careers, for a one-off tour."

Belshazzar’s Feast at The Fleece Inn, Bretforton, Worcestershire
"Belshazzar's Feast consists of Paul Hutchinson on acordion and Paul Sartin on oboe, violin and vocals. The duo start with traditional folk music, add a touch of classical and jazz, throw in a bit of pop and music hall, and top it off wry humour for a unique live experience."

Lady Maisery at The Poppy Folk Club, West Bridgford, Nottingham. NG2 5DX
"Lady Maisery explore vocal harmony to breathtaking effect, through their fresh interpretations of songs and ballads. Whether singing unaccompanied, or with backing from their combined instrumental talents on accordion, harp and fiddle, be prepared to be enchanted by rich harmonies and sumptuous clashes."

Bruce Molsky at The Maltings, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Northumberland
"Bruce Molsky stands today as the premier old-time fiddler in the world, the defining virtuoso of Appalachia's timeless folk music traditions."

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Monday 20th May 2013

Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman at Green Note, Camden, London
'Twin daughters and a folk-rock whirlwind forced Kathryn Roberts (Vocals / Piano / Woodwind), and Sean Lakeman (Guitar), to sideline their popular duo performances in the mid noughties. Now the timing is right for a return to form from the Dartmoor based couple.
Two of the British folk scenes most accomplished performers, Kathryn and Sean have graced stages the world over in a number of guises, however, the intimacy and strength of passion shown as a duo, combined with an eclectic repertoire ensures a rare treat for any listener.'

Spiers and Boden at St. David’s Hall, The Hayes, Cardiff CF10 1AH
"Twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk awards for Best Duo, Spiers and Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground."

Bruce Molsky at The Catstand, New Galloway, Dumfries and Galloway
"Bruce Molsky stands today as the premier old-time fiddler in the world, the defining virtuoso of Appalachia's timeless folk music traditions."

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Tuesday 21st May 2013

Ruth Moody at Green Note, Camden, London
Ruth Moody is a Juno Award winning songwriter from Winnipeg, Manitoba. Founding member of the internationally renowned, Billboard-charting trio The Wailin' Jennys and former lead singer of the Canadian roots band Scruj MacDuhk (the band that would later become The Duhks), she has performed in sold-out venues around the world, made numerous critically-acclaimed albums, and has appeared more than a dozen times on the national radio show A Prairie Home Companion.

Spiers and Boden at The Tolmen Centre, Fore Street, Constantine, nr. Falmouth, Cornwall TR11 5AH
"Twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk awards for Best Duo, Spiers and Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground."

Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman at The Hoy at Anchor Folk Club, Westcliff 0n Sea, Essex
"Two of the British folk scenes most accomplished performers, Kathryn and Sean have graced stages the world over in a number of guises, however, the intimacy and strength of passion shown as a duo, combined with an eclectic repertoire ensures a rare treat for any listener."

Martin Simpson + Sunjay Brayne at Stourbridge Folk Club, Wollaston, Stourbridge, West Midlands
There is no doubt that after 35 years as a professional musician Martin is, right now, better than ever. Widely acknowledged as one of the finest acoustic and slide guitar players in the world, his interpretations of traditional songs are masterpieces of storytelling. His solo shows are intense, eclectic, spellbinding and deeply moving.

Vamm at Eden Court Theatre, Inverness
'Having previously played in bands that required tight unison playing, power and volume, VAMM formed out of a shared wish to explore the possibilities of harmony, melody and rhythm with like-minded musicians.
VAMM is not a traditional trio. Not in the way you might expect. Their repertoire doesn’t rely on the slow strathspeys, Shetland reels or Scandinavian polskas these musicians are best known for.
Contemporary tunes from the talents of Lau’s Aidan O’Rourke and composer Jim Sutherland sit alongside 19th century four-to-the-floor reels, modern pieces by up-and-coming musicians and the group’s own compositions. VAMM’s sound is led by the strength of the melody and harmonic beauty rather than their cultural backgrounds.'

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Wednesday 22nd May 2013

Phil Beer at The Old Queens Head, Islington, London
The multi-instrumental half of the west country's award winning acoustic duo, Show of Hands.

Maciek Pysz at The Forge, Camden, London
"An unforgettable evening of world music jazz fusion combined with heart touching melodies from guitarist Maciek Pysz and his trio."

Cedric Watson at Canada Water Culture Space, 21 Surrey Quays Rd Canada Water, South London SE16 7AR
From the warm heart of Cajun Country, Grammy nominee Cedric Watson is the young king of the Louisiana scene.
Folk, swamp blues and upbeat zydeco are all on the menu as Cedric and his band host a musical feast with their unique take on traditional Creole music. Moving with ease between fiddle and accordion and adding his strong blues-infected vocals, Cedric’s creative style makes him an engaging and exciting performer.

Spiers and Boden at Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin Street, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP1 3UT
"Twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk awards for Best Duo, Spiers and Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground."

David Gibb and Elly Lucas at The Red Lion Folk Club, Birmingham
“David Gibb and Elly Lucas are an exciting young duo who play a mixture of original and re-worked traditional folk material. They hail from Derbyshire in the Midlands and have previously toured the UK extensively as part of David Gibb & The Pony Club."

Belshazzar’s Feast at Cottingham Live Folk Club, Cottingham, East Yorkshire
"Belshazzar's Feast consists of Paul Hutchinson on acordion and Paul Sartin on oboe, violin and vocals. The duo start with traditional folk music, add a touch of classical and jazz, throw in a bit of pop and music hall, and top it off wry humour for a unique live experience."

Bruce Molsky at The Fiddle Tree, Birnam, Perthshire
"Bruce Molsky stands today as the premier old-time fiddler in the world, the defining virtuoso of Appalachia's timeless folk music traditions."

Corralach at Dunfermline Folk Club, Dunfermline, Fife
"Corralach are a Highlands of Scotland based Folk Group with an interest in keeping our vocal tradition alive. We sing a wide range of harmony songs drawn from Scotland, Ireland and America both accompanied and A'capella accompanied on 6 string and 12 string guitar, bouzouki and 5 string banjo"

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Thursday 23rd May 2013

Sacha Silva at The Forge, Camden, London
"Sacha Silva creates a unique and accessible blend of Spanish and Indian music growing from his double life as a guitarist-composer and globe-trotting development economist."

Howden Jones at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes, Wiltshire SN10 1LD
Kate Howden and Paul Jones are songwriters who have been travelling all over the country, touring Village Halls, Small Theatres and Arts Centres.
Creating their ‘beautiful music in beautiful places’ Tour, they have been sharing their music and stories, often meeting friendly and fascinating people and visiting some wonderful, unusual venues in sometimes remote and always beautiful areas along the way. They write about life and their observations of it, often poignant, sometimes humorous, and gathering new material as they travel, they captivate an audience in a unique intimate atmosphere. Their show has been described as, ‘relaxed and enchanting’ and ‘an absolute delight’, ‘their joy, talent and good humour were infectious’. ‘music for all ages’.

Spiers and Boden at Ropetackle Arts Centre, Little High Street, Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex BN43 5EG
"Twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk awards for Best Duo, Spiers and Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground."

The Open Road at The National Brewery Centre, Horninglow St, Burton Upon Trent, Staffordshire
A Singer Songwriter Collective.

James Hickman and Dan Cassidy at The Topic Folk Club, Bradford, West Yorkshire
"Hickman’s emotive, soaring vocals and driving guitar is complemented by Cassidy’s ingenious and virtuosic fiddling. Their sound flows from the connection between British and American folk and is bursting with all the humour, heartbreak and excitement of these genres. The lively English wit of Hickman is set against Cassidy’s bone-dry irony and American drawl as they take audiences on a dynamic and unforgettable transatlantic journey."

Chris Sarjeant at The Black Swan Folk Club, York, North Yorkshire
Hailed as “a true singer-guitarist in the manner of Martin Carthy, Nic Jones and Martin Simpson”

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Friday 24th May 2013

Serious Sam Barrett & Martyn Roper at Green Note, Camden, London
"Within the last few years Serious Sam Barrett has played all over Europe and the U.S.A. getting plenty of return offers for major festivals, including Glastonbury, SXSW, and Secret Garden Party, and regularly supporting high profile artists such as The Felice Brothers, Charlie Parr, Pete Molinari, T Model Ford, Deer Tick, Black Diamond Heavies, Willis Earl Beal, and Eagulls to name but a few. With support from Tom Robinson (BBC 6Music) and even The Guardian, as well as a REALLY impressive array of music press (featured below) he's very much about to go big."

Amira Kheir at The Forge, Camden, London
"An enchanting mix of Soul, traditional African and Middle-Eastern music from Sudanese-Italian singer Amira Kheir."

O'Hooley & Tidow at The Town Hall, Dorchester, Dorset
“Hailed as the best act of the prestigious Cambridge Folk Festival 2012 by The Guardian; the multi award-winning Belinda O’Hooley (Rachel Unthank & The Winterset, Nic Jones Trio, Jackie Oates) and Heidi Tidow are now one of the most popular and unique acts on the contemporary folk scene. "

Ray Cooper at The Village Pump Folk Club, Lamb Inn, Mortimer Street, Trowbridge, Wiltshire
"probably best known as Chopper from Oyster Band. He’s now left the band to pursue a solo career. He is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who accompanies himself on cello and on guitar. "

Spiers and Boden at Forest Arts, Old Milton Road, New Milton, Hampshire BH25 6DS
"Twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk awards for Best Duo, Spiers and Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground."

James Hickman and Dan Cassidy at The Ram Folk Club, Thames Ditton, Surrey
"Another Ram debut, fiddler DAN is from the USA while guitarist JAMES is from this side of the pond. Dan grew up in a musical family, taking up the violin at ten and spending his formative years absorbing a broad spectrum of musical styles including classical, jazz, bluegrass, country, blues and rock. In the 1980s he was introduced to the music of Shetland fiddler Aly Bain which sparked his keen interest in Celtic music. He's spent the last 15 years in Iceland as a successful session musician but visits the UK regularly to perform with his own Swing Quartet. He also appeared on several of the recordings of his late sister Eva. JAMES was raised on a diet of folk and bluegrass and has performed at sessions and folk clubs since the age of thirteen. After music college and a stint with Uiscedwr he met Dan whilst touring in Iceland and they just clicked. Together they add sparkle, shine, swing and scintillation to songs and tunes old and new."

Simon Kempston at Cornerstone Arts Centre (Bar), 25 Station Road, Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 7NE 7:30pm - Free
"Award winning performer and an incredibly talented musician Simon returns to Cornerstone with more beautifully crafted folk-tinged songs to transport the listener on a uniquely Scottish journey."

John James at Pontardawe Arts Centre, Herbert St. Pontardawe, West Glamorgan
"Legendary blues, folk, ragtime and jazz guitarist making a rare appearance"

Ken Nicol at Poynton Workmen’s Club, Poynton, Cheshire
"This Legendary singer/guitarist (ex-Steeleye Span and Albion Band), covers the spectrum from blues to rock, and effortlessly takes in folk, jazz, ragtime, ballads and more along the way"

The Urban Folk Quartet at The Bridgwater Hall, Lower Mosley Street, Manchester
“A sizzling hot ensemble who fuse folk with elements of dub, house and rock with an ease that shouldn’t naturally follow that list of genres. Built on the rhythms of a cajón-wielding percussionist and oud-playing bassist, the phenomenal fiddlers led the quartet in one of the tightest line-ups I have ever seen.” - Olivia Haughton, Songlines

Bruce Molsky at The Queens Hall, Edinburgh
"Bruce Molsky stands today as the premier old-time fiddler in the world, the defining virtuoso of Appalachia's timeless folk music traditions."

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Saturday 25th May 2013

Manière des Bohémiens at Green Note, Camden, London
"Improvised Django Reinhardt, Stephane Grappelli influenced Gypsy Jazz and Eastern European swing."

Spiers and Boden at Cecil Sharp House, 2 Regents Park Road, Camden, London NW1 7AY
"Twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk awards for Best Duo, Spiers and Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground."

O'Hooley & Tidow at Chapel Arts Centre, Bath, Somerset
“Hailed as the best act of the prestigious Cambridge Folk Festival 2012 by The Guardian; the multi award-winning Belinda O’Hooley (Rachel Unthank & The Winterset, Nic Jones Trio, Jackie Oates) and Heidi Tidow are now one of the most popular and unique acts on the contemporary folk scene. "

Luke Daniels and John Dipper: On Drover Tracks at Cornerstone Arts Centre, 25 Station Road, Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 7NE
"This is a brand new suite of beautiful music by fabulous folk musicians commissioned to celebrate tradition right on our doorsteps. Sure to appeal to lovers of folk as well as lovers of the landscape and our history.
The many drove roads, or tracks, set deeply into the Wiltshire, West Berkshire and Oxfordshire countryside were used to drive livestock, much of which originated in Ireland. These musicians have literally walked these roads to make this music.
Anna Rice from Dublin has composed a new suite of songs, and the musicians playing them are top class folksters who play with the very best on the national scene. Luke Daniels is on melodeon, Ceri Rees Matthews on pibgorn and flute, Ceri Owen Jones on welsh single harp Matheu Watson on guitar and fiddle – all joined by members of the Southern Sinfonia. "

The Urban Folk Quartet at Bedstone & Hopton Castle Village Hall, Bedstone, Shropshire SY7 0BE 01547 530282
“A sizzling hot ensemble who fuse folk with elements of dub, house and rock with an ease that shouldn’t naturally follow that list of genres. Built on the rhythms of a cajón-wielding percussionist and oud-playing bassist, the phenomenal fiddlers led the quartet in one of the tightest line-ups I have ever seen.” - Olivia Haughton, Songlines

Folk and Blues Festival, Market Drayton, Shropshire
"Market Draytons well established Rock and Bowl festival have added a 3rd day to the weekend on the 25th of May with the day given over to the folk and blues genres. The event has a wonderful setting and production values as professional as anything in the region, add to that a fine list of folk and blues performers which include: Paul Parker, Dan Walsh, The Endings and rising star who everyone is talking about Blues Boy Dan Owen who soon after this event tours in support ZZ Top and plays this years Glastonbury festival."

Gilmore Roberts at The Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire
Contemporary folk/acoustic duo Gilmore & Roberts combine award-winning songwriting with astounding lap-tapping guitar, fiery fiddle and their trademark harmonies, creating a powerful wall of sound. Their third album 'The Innocent Left', recorded in London with producer Julian Simmons (Guillemots, Ed Sheeran, Albert Lee), explores many and varied topics but remains consistently bound by Gilmore & Roberts' passion for stories.
Katriona Gilmore (The Albion Band) and Jamie Roberts (Kerfuffle) began working together in 2006, releasing their first full-length album 'Shadows & Half Light' two years later. In 2010 the duo were nominated for the BBC Radio 2 Horizon Award and released their hotly anticipated second album, 'Up From The Deep', receiving national airplay and achieving a 'Best Original Song' Hancock Award for 'Fleetwood Fair' from the album.

Bruce Molsky at Milngavie Folk Club, Milngavie, East Dunbartonshire
"Bruce Molsky stands today as the premier old-time fiddler in the world, the defining virtuoso of Appalachia's timeless folk music traditions."

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Sunday 26th May 2013

John Jones and the Reluctant Ramblers at Hailsham Pavilion, Hailsham, Sussex
"John Jones and the Reluctant Ramblers is led by John Jones of Oysterband and the Reluctant Ramblers are: Dil Davies (Oysterband’s drummer); Al Scott (Oysterband producer) and Tim Cotterell, who plays with McDermott’s 2 hours and with Martha Tilston and the Woods. They will be joined by guest musicians on various dates of this tour."

HOZA AFRIKA - A Celebration of African Cultures in Norfolk at Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, Norfolk 12PM- 5PM : FREE ENTRY
Tambai Community Projects hosts a day to celebrate all of the different African cultures now residing in Norfolk. There will be stalls selling African inspired goods and crafts, an African BBQ in the garden and live music in the cafe bar.

Anna Mudeka Band at Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, Norfolk
"Anna Mudeka is energetic and passionate about her music and cultural roots. Having grown up in a musical family in Zimbabwe her musical career has moved from strength to strength and she uses her profile to raise funds to help improve the education of disadvantaged children in her homeland. The band will be launching their EP (produced by John Vigar for Tontena Records) to coincide with the gig."

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Monday 27th May 2013

Auriyga at Green Note, Camden, London
'Auriyga play a mixture of traditional and contemporary Folk Music. Auriyga came together in January 2011. They met whilst studying at the Birmingham Conservatoire. Since then, they have been on tour in 2012, and have been lucky enough to perform alongside many great people including, John Kirkpatrick, David Gibb and Elly Lucas and Elliott Morris.'

A celebration of the music of Patsy Cline at The Lord Nelson, Trafalgar Street, Brighton, Sussex
A live band show by the Shauna Parker Band (aka Crazy Shauna) featuring a posse a Brighton’s best musicians, including Glen Richardson (Brighton Beach Boys) on keyboards, Francois DeVille (The Diablos) on pedal steel, Scott Warman (Saloon Bar Band) on double bass, Matt Windler (Long Tall Texans) on guitar and Dil Davies (Oysterband) on percussion.

John Jones and the Reluctant Ramblers at The Trevor Arms, Hailsham, Sussex
"John Jones and the Reluctant Ramblers is led by John Jones of Oysterband and the Reluctant Ramblers are: Dil Davies (Oysterband’s drummer); Al Scott (Oysterband producer) and Tim Cotterell, who plays with McDermott’s 2 hours and with Martha Tilston and the Woods. They will be joined by guest musicians on various dates of this tour."
Session – bring your instruments or just come and listen! No tickets but a collection on the night for the band. Guests include Boff Whalley (Chumbawamba), Benji Kirkpatrick (Bellowhead) and members of The Copper Family.

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Tuesday 28th May 2013

Martin Simpson at The Old Queens Head, Islington, London
"Martin has been nominated an astounding 26 times in the eleven years of the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards - more than any other performer - with 10 consecutive years as nominee for Musician of The Year, which he has won twice. 2008 saw an incredible 5 nominations for "Prodigal Son' and 2 wins, whilst in 2010 he had an unprecedented 6 nominations for his CD, "True Stories" and a win for Best Traditional Track, "Sir Patrick Spens".

Reg Meuross at Bradford Folk Club, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire
Reg’s imaginative and finely crafted songs have earned him the title of Master Storyteller (Pennyblack Music), and prompted Mike Harding to introduce him onto the stage of The Royal Albert Hall as One of the finest singer-songwriters this country has produced. Reg’s brand new album LEAVES & FEATHERS was recorded at the legendary Abbey Road studios and captures some of the warmth and intimacy of Reg’s live performances. Mike Harding says: “I think this is stunning!”

John Jones and the Reluctant Ramblers at The Hassocks Hotel, Station Approach, Hassocks, West Sussex
"John Jones and the Reluctant Ramblers is led by John Jones of Oysterband and the Reluctant Ramblers are: Dil Davies (Oysterband’s drummer); Al Scott (Oysterband producer) and Tim Cotterell, who plays with McDermott’s 2 hours and with Martha Tilston and the Woods. They will be joined by guest musicians on various dates of this tour."

Open Night at The Hoy at Anchor Folk Club, Westcliff 0n Sea, Essex
"As usual our open nights are a showcase for our regular local musicians and singers as well as any newcomers or visitors who might wish to perform."

The Handsome Band at Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, Norfolk
"Their music has always been Americana in the truest sense— echoing everything from medieval ballad to Appalachian holler to Tin Pan Alley and punk rock. The husband and wife collaboration has produced songs that are full of an awed sense of emotion in the face of nature’s mysterious beauty and the wonders of everyday life."

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Wednesday 29th May 2013

Sean Taylor at Green Note, Camden, London
“Sean Taylor is a wonderfully talented modern troubadour whose sincere, thoughtful songs pull you in. He swings. Check him out!” Eric Bibb

John Jones and the Reluctant Ramblers at The George & Dragon, Houghton, Arundel, West Sussex
"John Jones and the Reluctant Ramblers is led by John Jones of Oysterband and the Reluctant Ramblers are: Dil Davies (Oysterband’s drummer); Al Scott (Oysterband producer) and Tim Cotterell, who plays with McDermott’s 2 hours and with Martha Tilston and the Woods. They will be joined by guest musicians on various dates of this tour."

O'Hooley & Tidow at Llantrisant Folk Club, Pontyclun, Rhondda Cynon Taff
“Hailed as the best act of the prestigious Cambridge Folk Festival 2012 by The Guardian; the multi award-winning Belinda O’Hooley (Rachel Unthank & The Winterset, Nic Jones Trio, Jackie Oates) and Heidi Tidow are now one of the most popular and unique acts on the contemporary folk scene. "

Session Night at Dunfermline Folk Club, Dunfermline, Fife
"Come along and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of our monthly session night. Share a story or a song, give us a tune, or just sit back and be inspired by some of our home grown talent. Free"

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Thursday 30th May 2013

Phillip Henry & Hannah Martin at Green Note, Camden, London
"Phil and Hannah play songs and tunes on Dobro, fiddle and harmonica that are textured, hypnotic and utterly captivating. Phillip Henry is a master craftsman on the slide-guitar and harmonica and has a fine, clear voice...he is one of the most extraordinary musicians around." Steve Knightley, Show Of Hands

Tir Eolas at The Forge, Camden, London
"A young contemporary folk group, Tir Eolas play inspired arrangements of traditional material including Irish, Swedish, Breton, Canadian, as well as their own lively folk-influenced pieces."

John Jones and the Reluctant Ramblers at Elsted Village Hall, Station Rd, Elsted, Midhurst, West Sussex
"John Jones and the Reluctant Ramblers is led by John Jones of Oysterband and the Reluctant Ramblers are: Dil Davies (Oysterband’s drummer); Al Scott (Oysterband producer) and Tim Cotterell, who plays with McDermott’s 2 hours and with Martha Tilston and the Woods. They will be joined by guest musicians on various dates of this tour."
This will be a gig within a session – bring your instruments or just come and listen! No tickets but a collection on the night for the band. Guests include Boff Whalley (Chumbawamba) and Benji Kirkpatrick (Bellowhead).

Lady Maisery at Folk at the Unicorn, Unicorn Theatre, Abingdon, Oxfordshire
"Lady Maisery is a new vocal trio from Hannah James, Hazel Askew and Rowan Rheingans. Inspired by folk singing traditions of the UK and northern Europe, Lady Maisery sing songs and ballads both unaccompanied, and with backing from their combined instrumental talents on accordion, harp and fiddle."

Bruce Molsky at The Black Swan Folk Club, York, North Yorkshire
"Bruce Molsky stands today as the premier old-time fiddler in the world, the defining virtuoso of Appalachia's timeless folk music traditions."

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Friday 31st May 2013

Hank Wangford - with Brad Breath & Spanner Robinson at Green Note, Camden, London
"Hank Wangford and Brad Breath (Andy Roberts) are back at the Green Note joined this time by the Country stylings and sweet harmonies of newcomer Spanner Robinson. Together the three of them will sing you original heartbreakers, toetappers and scuffed jewels scraped from the underbelly of Country. And however summery it is outside Hank’s fresh cut slices of life and Brad’s glimpses of gloom should keep the spirits low and the misery high."

Alasdair Roberts at The Goose Is Out, The Crown and Greyhound, Dulwich, South London
"Alasdair is one of those singers who just could not possibly be mistaken for anybody else, having his own very individual style.....
Based in Scotland, he released his first solo album of traditional songs, "The Crook of my Arm", in 2001. His second album "Farewell Sorrow" was one of the Observer's top albums of the year (note - that's top albums, not top folk albums! Amazing for a folk album!), and consists of beautiful self-written songs which are totally personal yet clearly influenced by the folk tradition."

Clive Gregson at The Village Pump Folk Club, Lamb Inn, Mortimer Street, Trowbridge, Wiltshire
"emotionally charged singer and a prolific songwriter whose songs with their mix of folk and pop styles have been recorded by many top artists. These include Nanci Griffith whose version of his ‘I love this town’ with Jimmy Buffet became a hit on both sides of the Atlantic. He first came to prominence in the folk clubs in the 1980s working with singer Christine Collister and went on to work with Richard Thompson as a member of his band and with Eddi Reader. Expect a relaxed evening listening to mesmerising songs and guitarwork. Support from Liz Simcock, a fine singer who is based in the south-east and has a growing reputation for her faultless performances and sparse and intelligent songwriting skill. "

John Jones and the Reluctant Ramblers at The King’s Head, The Square Wickham, Fareham, Hampshire
"John Jones and the Reluctant Ramblers is led by John Jones of Oysterband and the Reluctant Ramblers are: Dil Davies (Oysterband’s drummer); Al Scott (Oysterband producer) and Tim Cotterell, who plays with McDermott’s 2 hours and with Martha Tilston and the Woods. They will be joined by guest musicians on various dates of this tour."

Elbow Jane at The Ram Folk Club, Thames Ditton, Surrey
"Brilliant five-piece from the Wirral comprising KEVIN BYRNE (guitar, keyboards, vocals), RICHARD WOODS (guitar, bouzouki, vocals), JOE TOPPING (guitar, mandolin, vocals, harmonica), CHRIS CHESTERS (bass guitar) & STEVE FINNEGAN (percussion), they are contemporary acoustic music at its best. By rights these young lads should be huge, like Mumford and Sons - and they probably will soon be if there is any justice in the world. They write and sing strong, highly catchy, melodic songs both thoughtful and upbeat, they harmonise wonderfully and their instrumental skills are top notch. They also throw in some choice covers in their own highly individual style and have a great line in banter. They'll make you laugh, they'll make you cry and they'll leave you wanting more. Last time they packed the place out, so come in good time! "

Maggie Boyle & Paul Downes at The Everyman Folk Club, Saxmundham, Suffolk
"Maggie last performed at the Everyman with Grace Notes. As well as being a very fine singer indeed, she also plays flute and bodhran, and she continues the tradition of music passed on by her Irish family. Paul was last at the Club with Mick Ryan, and is one of the most respected musicians on the acoustic music scene. Preferring to be known as a singer of songs rather than a guitar technician, he is a truly consummate musician on the guitar and other stringed instruments."

Birmingham Conservatoire Folk Ensemble at Cornerstone, Didcot, Oxfordshire
"Tremendously exhilarating and joyously life-affirming…"

Lo'Jo at Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan, Ceredigion
"Based in Angers in the Loire Valley, where they live communally in a rambling old farmhouse, Lo’Jo have been at the epicentre of an extended counter-cultural tribe of musicians, painters, poets, film-makers, acrobats and circus artists for more than 30 years. Their music cultivates all that is poetic and trancelike, a blend of multicultural inspiration including Arabic, Berber, gypsy, French chanson, dub, funky beats, African and pop. Their sound is something you’re unlikely to hear anywhere else on the planet or forget in a long, long time. Lo’Jo weave diverse world influences into a stream of surreal poetry, global beats and café chanson, with a timelessly Gallic theatricality that the likes of Edith Piaf and Jean Renoir would have recognised. Collaborators with Tinariwen on the first Festival In The Desert 2001. Truly stunning! "

Bruce Molsky at The Rodewald Suite, Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool, Merseyside
"Bruce Molsky stands today as the premier old-time fiddler in the world, the defining virtuoso of Appalachia's timeless folk music traditions."

Phil Beer at The Gateway Arts Centre, Shrewsbury, Shropshire
The multi-instrumental half of the west country's award winning acoustic duo, Show of Hands
Tickets from vicky@firebrandmusic.co.uk