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

September 2010 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.
For this month see the calendar to the right or for months ahead see:
October, November, December

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Wednesday 1st September 2010

Kit & Cutter + Signe Madsen + Beacons at SoftlySoftly, The Albert & Pearl, 181 Upper Street, Islington, London N1 1RQ
Kit and Cutter - Glorious unaccompanied traditional folk songs in two-part harmonies from two girls who run also their own club in south London.
Signe Madsen - Laid-back, accomplished chilled out acoustic pop from Danish songstress.
Beacons - Lovely, sunny, lo-fi folky acoustica.

Singaround at The White Horse Folk Club, The Fox Inn, Swindon Street, Highworth, Wiltshire

Pokey LaFarge & The South City 3 at The Arts Centre, Norwich, Norfolk
“Lawd knows we need people like Pokey LaFarge. Coming on like a b*st*rd son (ed for firewall lunacy) of Woody Guthrie and Blind Blake, this is the kind of stuff Ry Cooder’s been trying to do for decades: no-holds-barred, honest-to-goodness sheet-kicking music of the highest order. Pokey’s forte are hot little vignettes like Walk Your Way Out Of This Town and I Don’t Mind Dyin’, dusty slices of timeless Americana coloured with peeping harmonica and blasting kazoo. ............ A lo-fi gem from an, as yet, unsung troubadour” Julian Piper, Acoustic magazine

Hans Theessink at 'The Portwell Angel' 26 Market Place, Faringdon Oxfordshire
Hans Theessink is hailed as "A master of the blues guitar", described by Bo Diddley as "one helluva guitar player" and by the US 'Blues Revue' as "An international blues treasure".

Singers Night at Rivelin Folk Club, Hillsborough, Sheffield, South Yorkshire
"The club enjoys acoustic music in a wide variety of genres including traditional, roots revival, blues, jazz, country and americana. Unaccompanied singers, instrumentalists and singer/players are all equally welcomed. The club is particularly eager to welcome beginners."

Richard Shindell at The Trades Club, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire
"An expatriate New Yorker now living in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Richard Shindell is a meticulous craftsman of song whose six studio albums and one live recording have been revered by critics and fans alike. Innovative, original and occasionally spiritual, Shindell’s songs weave tales that interchangeably champion the downtrodden, exalt the disaffected or wax empathetic to those lost to society’s fringes"

Bill Adair at Dunfermline Folk Club, Dunfermline, Fife
“Lanarkshire bluesman”

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Thursday 2nd September 2010

Martin Harley at The Green Note, Camden, London
"The Martin Harley Band are the UK’s premier blues and roots-influenced acoustic combo. Fronted by the inimitable singer and guitarist Martin Harley (also an accomplished solo performer), and based around his sublime songwriting, the MHB (as their fans know them) truly are a band like no other. With a strong DIY ethic and a love of unusual instrumentation, from Martin’s distinctive lap-slide guitar to balalaikas, double bass and tiny cocktail drumkits, and bolstered by delectable three-part harmonies, the band have crafted a unique, timeless sound that has seen them develop a sizeable following both in the UK and abroad."

Majagua at The National Theatre Foyer, South Bank, Waterloo, London 5:45pm Free
"South American folk and Afro-Colombian rhythms"

Maz O'Connor at Islington Folk Club, Clerkenwell, London
"Maz O'Connor is a 19 year old folk singer from Cumbria. She sings unaccompanied traditional songs, and has also performed with Last Orders, the winners of the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award 2007. She reached the final of the awards herself in 2009. She recently won the Fred Jordan Memorial Singing Competition at Bromyard Folk Festival, and the first TRAD2MAD competition run by Islington Folk Club."

The Lantern Society at The Betsey Trotwood, Farringdon Road, London, EC1R 3BL 8.30 pm
"'Trevor Moss & Hannah-Lou's Lantern Society is rightly billed as London's Finest Folk Club. Upstairs in the convivial surroundings of the Dickensian Betsey Trotwood, in the City of London, the finest folk from all over the capital and beyond congregate to regale one another with story and song. Although first and foremost what they nobley achieve is to have a good old knees up.'
The night is accompanied by the Lantern Society Radio Hour, a fornightly online free radio show bringing you the best performances from the lantern society stage."

Irish Traditional Folk Session at The Drifwood Spars, Trevaunance Cove, St. Agnes, Cornwall 8:30 onwards
All Welcome

Brixham Folk Night at The Ernie Lister Bar, Quayside Hotel, King Street Brixham. Devon
Resident live folk band playing electric/acoustic folk and roots. Guests very welcome to perform in the middle of the evening.
Accompaniment can sometimes be provided if required. Lots of different styles featured.
All welcome.

Hans Theessink at Jazz @ Future Inns, Bristol
Hans Theessink is hailed as "A master of the blues guitar", described by Bo Diddley as "one helluva guitar player" and by the US 'Blues Revue' as "An international blues treasure".

Stompin' Dave at The Joshua Tree, Southampton, Hampshire
"Stompin' Dave Allen performs American roots music on guitar, five-string banjo, fiddle, piano, harmonica, vocals & tap dancing. Dave specializes in American roots music: old-time, bluegrass, blues, country blues, folk, vintage country & hillbilly. Traditional songs & tunes, originals & covers."

Spider John Koerner at Folk at The Royal Oak, Lewes, Sussex
"Traditional American folk and country blues musician, rhythmic guitarist, song-crafter, singer and living legend with his fiddle playing friend."

Ian Petrie at Orpington Folk Club, Orpington, Kent

Steve Turner at Whitstable Folk Club, Whitstable, Kent
A shining example of the music the British folk scene is capable of producing.
FRoots

The Mersea Session at The Coast Inn, West Mersea, Essex
If you are looking for the rockingest acoustic session in Essex, it's on at the Coast Inn, in West Mersea, 8 miles south of Colchester, every Thursday night. The acoustic of the venue is excellent, wooden floor, no soft furnishings and varied ceiling heights. The beer is excellent, currently Green King IPA, Mersea Island Brewery's Yo Boy! and Maldon Gold, Champion Beer of Britain 2007. But be warned, musician seats fill up fast, as do the remainder for listeners/drinkers, so it's wise to arrive about 8pm. And don't expect an early night - the music usually finishes about 11.30. Music style is widely varied, from Irish, Scottish, English and American tunes to bluegrass, jazz and rock, with songs from many genres. It is a completely inclusive session, with no cliques or rules, just respect for fellow singers and musicians.

Richard Shindell at The Market House', Minchinhampton, Gloucestershire
"An expatriate New Yorker now living in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Richard Shindell is a meticulous craftsman of song whose six studio albums and one live recording have been revered by critics and fans alike. Innovative, original and occasionally spiritual, Shindell’s songs weave tales that interchangeably champion the downtrodden, exalt the disaffected or wax empathetic to those lost to society’s fringes"

Singaround at The Tump Folk Club, Coombe Social Club, Brinklow Road, Coventry, West Midlands

Traditional Song Session at The Kitchen Garden Café, York Road, Birmingham
"Traditional music sessions take place in pubs all over the city but traditional singing is also alive and well. Here's a chance to sing and listen to traditional songs in a friendly and informal environment."

Sam Carter at The Market Harborough Theatre, Market Harborough, Leicestershire
"Winner of 2010 bbc folk horizon award for best newcomer Sam Carter is a precocious young singer and guitarist from Rutland. Since moving to London in 2004 he has been busily honing his craft as a writer and performer. Sam has studied guitar with Martin Simpson and supported Bellowhead on their ‘Matachin’ album launch tour, which led Bellowhead lead singer Jon Boden to hail him as ‘the finest English-style finger-picking guitarist of his generation’."

Beeston Acoustic Night at The Commerical Inn, 19 Wollaton Road, Beeston, Nottinghamshire
Singing songs and playing tunes
All welcome - Thursday nights upstairs
Contact niallb@live.co.uk for more details

Dumbles Folk Singaround at The Dumbles Pub, Westhorpe, Southwell, Nottinghamshire
"At the Dumbles Folk we welcome all musicians, singers, poets and listeners"

Live Klezmer music from Deli Babies and friends at The Kings Arms, Bloom Street, Salford, M3 6NA, 9.30pm.
Contact Ros for more info on rosfish@o2.co.uk

Steve Tilston at Topic Folk Club, Bradford, West Yorkshire
"...that very rare combination of singer, songwriter and guitarist who actually excels in all departments..." Froots

Pokey LaFarge & The South City 3 at The Tolbooth, Stirling
“Lawd knows we need people like Pokey LaFarge. Coming on like a b*st*rd son (ed for firewall lunacy) of Woody Guthrie and Blind Blake, this is the kind of stuff Ry Cooder’s been trying to do for decades: no-holds-barred, honest-to-goodness sheet-kicking music of the highest order. Pokey’s forte are hot little vignettes like Walk Your Way Out Of This Town and I Don’t Mind Dyin’, dusty slices of timeless Americana coloured with peeping harmonica and blasting kazoo. ............ A lo-fi gem from an, as yet, unsung troubadour” Julian Piper, Acoustic magazine

Jake Cogan and the Liberty Roses at Eddys Acoustic Nights, Kirkcaldy, Fife
"'Jake Cogan and the Liberty Roses play Eddy’s as part of their debut album pre-launch tour. The self-titled album featuring BBC Radio 2's multi-award winning artist Kris Drever will be officially released on December 5th 2010 in the bands hometown Edinburgh-with support from Vivienne Bern + other special guests. Having already been hotly tipped by industry insiders for wide recognition and radio success, this debut promises to deliver!"

Kirsty McGee and Mat Martin at Leith Folk Club, Edinburgh
"Described as ‘bewitching and exquisite’ (Q) and ‘one of the greatest groups in the current music scene’ (maverick), the spine tingling simplicity and beauty of Kirsty and Mat's music is once heard, never forgotten."

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Friday 3rd September 2010

Kosmos Ensemble at The Green Note, London
"Vibrant, innovative Kosmos trio joined by international prize-winning accordionist Milos Milivojevic explore the boundaries of Western Classical and Contemporary and World music through Arabic, Gypsy, Balkan, Jazz, Klezmer and Tango."

The Demon Barber Roadshow at The Purcell Room, South Bank, Waterloo, London
Youthful, enthralling, charismatic, and with bags of attitude, The Demon Barbers combine solid traditional acoustic instruments and songs with the added oomph of a superbly tight rhythm section, making a unique and captivating sound. Energetic fiddle and passionate, distinctive vocals ‘with driven punchy tunes and songs, drum ‘n’ bass grooves, the odd touch of ska and an ever present feel that this lot know how to party’ result in ‘one of the most exciting acts around… check them out....’ fRoots

Hans Theessink at Brooks Blues Bar, Putney, West London
Hans Theessink is hailed as "A master of the blues guitar", described by Bo Diddley as "one helluva guitar player" and by the US 'Blues Revue' as "An international blues treasure".

Wendy Arrowsmith at Bodmin Folk Club, Bodmin, Cornwall
"Born and raised in the suburbs of Glasgow, Wendy’s musical influences as a child were mostly Trad Jazz or Church hymns! Although she learnt Burns and other traditional Scottish songs at school, it wasn’t until she moved to England to marry that she began to really delve into traditional folk music. Wendy has sung many different styles of music – ranging from large scale classical choral works, operetta and musicals to backing vocalist for a prog rock band! But with folk music she has found songs that come from the heart and allow great emotional expression and social commentary. She describes herself as “a singer who plays guitar”, but this shouldn’t detract from Wendy’s musical abilities not just on guitar, but also on whistles, bodhran, mandolin and most recently accordion."

Buddy Mondlock at The Blue Walnut, Walnut Road, Chelston, Torquay, Devon
"Buddy Mondlock writes songs. He does it so well that some great songwriters have recorded his songs on their own albums. Guy Clark, Art Garfunkel, Nanci Griffith and Janis Ian, to name just a few. But there's nothing like hearing the guy who wrote 'em sing 'em. He's not going to pin your ears back with those songs. He's going to draw you into his world. Where a single snowflake follows the trajectory of a relationship, where you get your pocket picked by a Roman cat, where morning tumbles into noon and where dreams that don't come true still count."

Open House at Swindon Folk Singers Club, Swindon, Wiltshire
"You can come along and just listen, or you can sing a song or play a tune. Our material is mainly traditional, but with a large smattering of songs from the current folk scene, as well as other stuff.
We welcome performers of all abilities. The atmosphere is friendly and encouraging, so come along and have a go! It doesn’t matter how good you are – we all had to start somewhere!"

No Fixed Abode at The Trouper Inn, Sturminster Newton, Dorset
"No Fixed Abode are a blend of Una Walsh (vocals) and Tony Dean (guitar). Una originates in Ireland and has a voice as rich and smooth as the finest Irish malt whiskey. Tony’s guitar playing provides the ice. Together they invite you to sit back relax and enjoy Their mix of original acoustic songs blended together in a unique way that will take you on a magical mystery tour of your emotions."

Nicky Swann at The Farncombe Tavern, Farncombe, Surrey
"Nicky Swann is developing into a fine singer-songwriter. Her delivery is warm, soulful (sometimes gritty) but always spiritually tinged. She lists Patsy Cline, Carole King and Janis Joplin as her big three. A passionate performer, she uses elements of folk, blues and country to tell her tales of love, hope and death."

Benny Gallagher at The Ram Folk Club, Thames Ditton, Surrey
"Right from his early days at the Beatles' Apple label (where he teamed up with Graham Lyle) and McGuiness Flint, the sheer quality of Benny’s songs has shone through; When I'm Dead and Gone, Breakaway, Stay Young, I Wanna Stay With You, Heart in New York and Heart on My Sleeve were huge hits for Art Garfunkel, Garth Brooks, Bryan Ferry and many more, as well as for themselves. He continues to perform, and in 2008 released a new CD ‘At The Edge of a Wave’ (his first in 14 years), which is full of class songs that sound like they have always been around. Benny was aided and abetted by the Ram’s own finger-meister BOB WOOD who will be joining him tonight, along with (hopefully) a couple of other musicians too!"

Suntrap at Brighton Folk and Blues Club, The Open House, 146 Springfield Road, Brighton, Sussex
"Suntrap have developed a distinctive sound. Once described as Fairport meets Fleetwood Mac, the songs clearly take influence from both English folk and Americana. Bert Jansch-like guitar coupled with big ‘wall of sound’ vocal harmonies and a strong dose of driving fiddles."

Carl Jones & Beverly Smith at The Milkmaid Folk Club, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk
"For Years Carl Jones and Beverly Smith have appeared on the traditional music scene, at festivals, on record, at contests and dances, in various bands and formations, playing just about anything with strings or tossing in vocal harmonies wherever there was the oppportunity. In their recordings they bring those years of experience to the art of the duet—songs and tunes, old and new, done simply and with love."

Open Stage at Cambridge Folk Club, Cambridge

Singers Night at The Valley Folk Club, Pontardawe, West Glamorgan

Richard Shindell at The Walker Theatre, Shrewsbury, Shropshire
"An expatriate New Yorker now living in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Richard Shindell is a meticulous craftsman of song whose six studio albums and one live recording have been revered by critics and fans alike. Innovative, original and occasionally spiritual, Shindell’s songs weave tales that interchangeably champion the downtrodden, exalt the disaffected or wax empathetic to those lost to society’s fringes"

Pete Morton at Northwich Folk Club, Northwich, Cheshire
"Folk singer Pete Morton is a songwriter and performer originally from Leicester, in the English midlands, who currently lives in London. With a wealth of great songs and stage presence, his show is dynamic and intense as well as approachable and fun loving."

Blackheart at The Great Moor Club, Store St. Stockport, Cheshire
"Urban Folk band Blackheart are taking a break from their 2010 tour to play a fundraiser for Kinder Mountain Rescue Team on 3 September 2010. Blackheart are Chrissy Mostyn and Rick Pilkington Their songwriting blends folk, country and even rock influences to create a unique style of beautifully crafted, instantly memorable songs that has been christened by the media ‘urban folk’. Having built a reputation on outstanding live concerts and two albums , they are widely regarded as the fastest rising stars of the new folk generation."

Steve Tilston at Porkies Folk Club, Poynton, Cheshire
"...that very rare combination of singer, songwriter and guitarist who actually excels in all departments..." Froots

The Hale & Hearty Folk Club at The Cross Keys Hotel, Milnthope, Cumbria. 8:30pm
An open door folk club of 25 years standing guaranteeing a lively and entertaing evening of both contemporary and traditional folk song in a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. We have a residency of ten established perfomers who host the evenings in turn.

Kristina Olsen and Peter Grayling at Carlisle Folk and Blues Club, Carlisle, Cumbria
"A fine instrumentalist (acoustic guitar, steel-body slide guitar, saxophone, concertina and piano) as well as a powerful songwriter with a big bluesy voice, Kristina has audiences around the world coming back for more.
Her mix of strong songs in the troubadour tradition, some jazz-inspired sounds and powerful bottleneck blues (as well as her hilarious storytelling) makes for a diverse and satisfying musical experience, on stage and on disc."

Rachel Harrington and Rod Clements at Porters Coffee House, North Shields, North Tyneside
“Compared favourably with Gillian Welch and the young Emmylou Harris, Seattle's Rachel Harrington is the rising star of Americana and keeping the ancient art of the musical storyteller alive. For her 2010 tour she is accompanied by master slide guitarist, Bert Jansch collaborator Lindisfarne founder member, Rod Clements."

Pokey LaFarge & The South City 3 at The Cluny, Newcastle Upon Tyne
“Lawd knows we need people like Pokey LaFarge. Coming on like a b*st*rd son (ed for firewall lunacy) of Woody Guthrie and Blind Blake, this is the kind of stuff Ry Cooder’s been trying to do for decades: no-holds-barred, honest-to-goodness sheet-kicking music of the highest order. Pokey’s forte are hot little vignettes like Walk Your Way Out Of This Town and I Don’t Mind Dyin’, dusty slices of timeless Americana coloured with peeping harmonica and blasting kazoo. ............ A lo-fi gem from an, as yet, unsung troubadour” Julian Piper, Acoustic magazine

Singers Night at The Rolling Hills Folk Club, Melrose, Scottish Borders

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Saturday 4th September 2010

The Magpies Nest at The South Bank Centre, Waterloo, London 12 Noon - 3:00pm - Free
Featuring: Dogan Mehmet and The Deerhunters (12 noon), The Hut People (1pm) and Mawkin

The Way of the Morris at The South Bank Centre, Waterloo, London (4:00pm)
The documentary Way of the Morris follows filmmaker Tim Plester's search for a connection with the native dance traditions of his family.
Screenings begin at 4pm. Saturday's screening is followed by a Q&A with Tim Plester and fellow director Rob Curry.

Beverley Smith and Carl Jones at The Cellar Upstairs Folk Club, Euston, London
American Old Time Duo

Phil Beer at The Acorn Folk Club, Minehead, Somerset
"Phil Beer is the multi-instrumentalist half of England's foremost acoustic duo ‘Show of Hands’. His instrumental wizardry is well documented and has been utilised by countless artists over the years, the most notable being The Rolling Stones, Mike Oldfield and Steve Harley."

Bob Fox and Billy Mitchell at The David Hall, South Petherton, Somerset
"Bob Fox is a folk singer from the north east of England who has been performing for over 35 years. In that time he has earned two nominations for Best Folk Singer at the BBC Folk Awards and a nomination for best Traditional Track for, Here’s the Tender Coming. In that time he has worked with many of the greats of the folk scene including Fairport Convention and John Tams. For this tour he teams up with ex-Lindisfarne front man Billy Mitchell. Their previous tour produced the acclaimed album, Five-star B&B."

No Fixed Abode at The Royal Oak, Charmouth, Dorset
"No Fixed Abode are a blend of Una Walsh (vocals) and Tony Dean (guitar). Una originates in Ireland and has a voice as rich and smooth as the finest Irish malt whiskey. Tony’s guitar playing provides the ice. Together they invite you to sit back relax and enjoy Their mix of original acoustic songs blended together in a unique way that will take you on a magical mystery tour of your emotions."

Jazz & Folk Garden Party at The Fox Revived, Norwood Hill, Horley, Surrey 12:00pm - 11:00pm
With: Ann Odell Collective, Shane Hill, Sam Walker & Friends, Allan Bailey, Rawbones
01293 862312, info@thefoxrevived.co.uk

The Jones Boys at The Old Neptune, Marine Terrace, Whitstable, Kent
"Mandolin/Mandola/Accordian based folk from this award-winning 3-piece"

Flaxenby at The George Inn, Bridgnorth, Shropshire
Flaxenby provide a timeless, contemporary tilt on folk...The lyrical quality of the songwriting portrays an edgy, graceful energy, interwoven with experienced musical skill that creates that Flaxenby sound...
Sam McLeod blends her folk, rock and jazz influences with a bluesy depth with instinctive, vocal versitility. Chris Buttery's earthy vocals and americana influenced songwriting has stood him in good stead in the past as a founder member of Bill Caddick's 'Jackfield Riverbillies'. Andy Jones's perfect expression on the fiddle complements with soft celtic undertones.

Rachel Harrington and Rod Clements at The Studio, Hartlepool, Cleveland
“Compared favourably with Gillian Welch and the young Emmylou Harris, Seattle's Rachel Harrington is the rising star of Americana and keeping the ancient art of the musical storyteller alive. For her 2010 tour she is accompanied by master slide guitarist, Bert Jansch collaborator Lindisfarne founder member, Rod Clements."

Pokey LaFarge & The South City 3 at Eastgate Theatre, Peebles, Scottish Borders
“Lawd knows we need people like Pokey LaFarge. Coming on like a b*st*rd son (ed for firewall lunacy) of Woody Guthrie and Blind Blake, this is the kind of stuff Ry Cooder’s been trying to do for decades: no-holds-barred, honest-to-goodness sheet-kicking music of the highest order. Pokey’s forte are hot little vignettes like Walk Your Way Out Of This Town and I Don’t Mind Dyin’, dusty slices of timeless Americana coloured with peeping harmonica and blasting kazoo. ............ A lo-fi gem from an, as yet, unsung troubadour” Julian Piper, Acoustic magazine

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Sunday 5th September 2010

The Magpies Nest at The South Bank Centre, Waterloo, London 12 Noon - 3:00pm - Free
Featuring: The Hut People, Jigjaw and Zoox

Hans Theessink at Walthamstow Folk Club, Walthamstow, East London
Hans Theessink is hailed as "A master of the blues guitar", described by Bo Diddley as "one helluva guitar player" and by the US 'Blues Revue' as "An international blues treasure".

The Imagined Village at The Queen Elizabeth Hall, South Bank, Waterloo, London
"One of the most unusual collaborations of the past decade, The Imagined Village made a significant impression with their critically acclaimed and commercially successful début album (released via Peter Gabriel’s Real World label). They toured extensively, appeared on TV's Later…With Jools show and won out at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. If the band had initially developed as a loose collective of singers and musicians, they have subsequently consolidated into a working, growing, organic aggregation."

Richard Shindell at Twickfolk, Twickenham, West London
"An expatriate New Yorker now living in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Richard Shindell is a meticulous craftsman of song whose six studio albums and one live recording have been revered by critics and fans alike. Innovative, original and occasionally spiritual, Shindell’s songs weave tales that interchangeably champion the downtrodden, exalt the disaffected or wax empathetic to those lost to society’s fringes"

Singers/Musicians Night at Wheal Dream Folk, Wendron, Nr. Helston, Cornwall
There is a warm welcome for all singers and musicians. Or, just come along and enjoy the best Folk Music in West Cornwall

No Fixed Abode at The Anchor Inn, Beer, Devon, 1:00pm
"No Fixed Abode are a blend of Una Walsh (vocals) and Tony Dean (guitar). Una originates in Ireland and has a voice as rich and smooth as the finest Irish malt whiskey. Tony’s guitar playing provides the ice. Together they invite you to sit back relax and enjoy Their mix of original acoustic songs blended together in a unique way that will take you on a magical mystery tour of your emotions."

Open Mic Folk Night at The Nelson Tavern, Mudeford, Christchurch, Dorset
Open mic night hosted by Alex Hall, a local artist.
All artists who take part are eligable for a free pint / small glass of wine / soft drink at the bar once they've played.
It's a great, growing, laid back night in a cosy non-judgemental environment. All artists are welcome, with artists so far playing anything from covers of The Beatles to more folk-styled self-written songs.

Elliot Brood at The Railway, Winchester, Hampshire
"Stalking shadows on the prairies with a compass and set of matches, shaking the mountains loose with howls and footstomps and, settled in meadows, while whispering tales under darkening skies, obsessed with history or historically obsessed, either way, Elliott BROOD have a penchant for stories they just can’t shake."

Portsmouth Multicultural Festival at Castle Field, Southsea, Portsmouth, Hampshire
"The 15th annual Multicultural Festival takes place this year on Sunday 5 September 10am – 6pm on Castle Field, Southsea, Portsmouth. This free and popular outdoor event kicks off at 10am and will feature live music on two stages, children and adult workshops, ethnic crafts stalls and world food to tantalise your palate."

Jazz & Folk Garden Party at The Fox Revived, Norwood Hill, Horley, Surrey 12:00pm - 9:00pm
With: Ann Odell Collective, Shane Hill, Sam Walker & Friends, Allan Bailey, Rawbones
01293 862312, info@thefoxrevived.co.uk

Get Rhythm Presents... Americana Unplugged, at The Foundry, 13-14 Foundry St Brighton, BN1 4AT
Every Sunday from 7.30 the best Americana and American roots artists from Brighton, Sussex and beyond play live and unplugged.
The atmosphere and acoustics of this comfy, candlelit, intimate space make it perfect for listening to completely acoustic Americana

Singers Night at The Forest Folk Club, Miners Arms, Whitecroft, near Lydney, Gloucestershire

The Eduardo Niebla Experience at The Palm House, Sefton Park, Liverpool, Merseyside
Described as "a world class virtuoso” by Time Out, Spanish guitarist and composer EDUARDO NIEBLA is one of the most brilliant and emotive performers on the world circuit today, fusing flamenco gypsy jazz with Arabic, Indian, Latin and classical influences, to create a truly stunning and exhilarating musical experience full of hot, dark Mediterranean passion.
His trio, The Eduardo Niebla Experience, is completed by Carl Herring on accompanying guitar and Dharmesh Parmar on tabla. Although he has 23 albums to his name, no recording can do justice do what The Scotsman called, "the thunderstorm of this incredible musician in full flow”

Ian Wingate at The Hole Note Acoustic Club, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

Johnny Silvo at The Davy Lamp Folk Club, Washington, Tyne and Wear
"Johnny's main aim as an entertainer has always been to make people happy. He has continuously succeeded in this over the years by mixing excellent music, brilliantly performed, with a large measure of humour. "

Rachel Harrington and Rod Clements at The Glass House Wigton, Cumbria (Advance Booking Only)
“Compared favourably with Gillian Welch and the young Emmylou Harris, Seattle's Rachel Harrington is the rising star of Americana and keeping the ancient art of the musical storyteller alive. For her 2010 tour she is accompanied by master slide guitarist, Bert Jansch collaborator Lindisfarne founder member, Rod Clements."

Pokey LaFarge & The South City 3 at Crofthead Hall, Neilston, Glasgow
“Lawd knows we need people like Pokey LaFarge. Coming on like a b*st*rd son (ed for firewall lunacy) of Woody Guthrie and Blind Blake, this is the kind of stuff Ry Cooder’s been trying to do for decades: no-holds-barred, honest-to-goodness sheet-kicking music of the highest order. Pokey’s forte are hot little vignettes like Walk Your Way Out Of This Town and I Don’t Mind Dyin’, dusty slices of timeless Americana coloured with peeping harmonica and blasting kazoo. ............ A lo-fi gem from an, as yet, unsung troubadour” Julian Piper, Acoustic magazine

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Monday 6th September 2010

The Askew Sisters and support from Laura Victoria at MondayMonday, The Green Note, Camden, London
"Emily and Hazel Askew are a young duo making waves on the folk scene with their energetic brand of English folk music. Using fiddle and melodeon, they play and sing with an infectious enjoyment and love for the music, winning them fans wherever they go. From rhythmic foot stomping tunes to powerful interpretations of songs and ballads, their playing always guarantees to engage and inspire those who hear. They've spent the last couple of years playing at venues across the country, from top festivals and folk clubs to London's National Theatre and National Portrait Gallery. "Hazel's rich gutsy voice and inventive melodeon playing combined with the skill of Emily's singing fiddle or soulful cello are a new force to be reckoned with!" Stirrings Magazine "What the Askew Sisters do so well is tell the story and allow the music accompanying to help that story-telling along."

Rebetiko Jam Session at The Horseshoe, Clerkenwell Close, London EC4 (Farringdon tube)
A monthly Rebetiko jam session is held on the first monday of every month
Entry is free. All are welcome to play, dance, sing or listen to the music at London's best Greek music party night.
Contact Andy on 07910 160 114 or Chris on 07950 660361. E mail andy@rebetikoodysseyband.com or Christopherjones99@yahoo.co.uk

Richard Shindell at Saint Bonaventure's Parish Social Club, Bristol
"An expatriate New Yorker now living in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Richard Shindell is a meticulous craftsman of song whose six studio albums and one live recording have been revered by critics and fans alike. Innovative, original and occasionally spiritual, Shindell’s songs weave tales that interchangeably champion the downtrodden, exalt the disaffected or wax empathetic to those lost to society’s fringes"

Stompin' Dave at The Boot Inn, Weymouth, Dorset
"Stompin' Dave Allen performs American roots music on guitar, five-string banjo, fiddle, piano, harmonica, vocals & tap dancing. Dave specializes in American roots music: old-time, bluegrass, blues, country blues, folk, vintage country & hillbilly. Traditional songs & tunes, originals & covers."

Bob Fox and Billy Mitchell at Croydon Folk Club, Croydon, Surrey
"Bob and Billy continue working as an occasional duo and already have a number of gigs arranged for the Autumn of 2010. This unique combination will entertain people of all shapes and sizes with their wonderful selection of northern songs that spans Jimmy Nail’s ‘Big River’ to Lindisfarne’s ‘Meet Me On The Corner’ all delivered with consummate musicianship. The duo’s on-stage banter has also been known to regularly reduce audiences to gibbering wrecks."

Crayside Folk Club, at The Seven Stars, Foots Cray High Street, Sidcup, Kent
Informal Session/Singaround

Hans Theessink at Sheppey Folk and Blues Club, Liberty Hall, Union Road, Sheerness, Kent
Hans Theessink is hailed as "A master of the blues guitar", described by Bo Diddley as "one helluva guitar player" and by the US 'Blues Revue' as "An international blues treasure".

Singers Night at The Tudor Folk Club, Chesham, Buckinghamshire

Elliot Brood at Brudenell Social Club, Hyde Park, Leeds, West Yorkshire
"Stalking shadows on the prairies with a compass and set of matches, shaking the mountains loose with howls and footstomps and, settled in meadows, while whispering tales under darkening skies, obsessed with history or historically obsessed, either way, Elliott BROOD have a penchant for stories they just can’t shake."

Jinkski at Skipton Folk Unplugged, The Narrow Boat, 38 Victoria Street, Skipton, North Yorkshire
Singer Songwriter

Club Night at The Bridge Folk Club, Newcastle Upon Tyne

The Roots Of England Heritage Club at Lowick Community Hall, Lowick, Ulverston, Cumbria
The ‘Roots Of England’ Folk Heritage Club hosted by Phil Drane. For an evening of acoustic Traditional and Contemporary English Folk music, join us at Lowick Community Hall, Lowick in the beautiful Crake Valley, just north of Ulverston; postcode LA12 8EE. Adult listeners will be relieved of £2; performers £1 and under 16s free. Floor spots are on offer to singers and musicians and if you’d like to perform, contact Phil beforehand to book a spot.

Pokey LaFarge & The South City 3 at The Classic Grand, Glasgow
“Lawd knows we need people like Pokey LaFarge. Coming on like a b*st*rd son (ed for firewall lunacy) of Woody Guthrie and Blind Blake, this is the kind of stuff Ry Cooder’s been trying to do for decades: no-holds-barred, honest-to-goodness sheet-kicking music of the highest order. Pokey’s forte are hot little vignettes like Walk Your Way Out Of This Town and I Don’t Mind Dyin’, dusty slices of timeless Americana coloured with peeping harmonica and blasting kazoo. ............ A lo-fi gem from an, as yet, unsung troubadour” Julian Piper, Acoustic magazine

Kristina Olsen and Peter Grayling at Glenfarg Folk Club, Glenfarg, Perth
"A fine instrumentalist (acoustic guitar, steel-body slide guitar, saxophone, concertina and piano) as well as a powerful songwriter with a big bluesy voice, Kristina has audiences around the world coming back for more.
Her mix of strong songs in the troubadour tradition, some jazz-inspired sounds and powerful bottleneck blues (as well as her hilarious storytelling) makes for a diverse and satisfying musical experience, on stage and on disc."

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Tuesday 7th September 2010

Bist Meshugeh at The National Theatre Foyer, South Bank, Waterloo, London 5:45pm Free
"Yiddish and Israeli folk song, klezmer and Simcha dance music on violin, piano and double bass."

Seend Acoustic Club at Seend Community Centre, Rusty Lane, Seend, Wiltshire
£2 entrance, £1 for performers for open floor evenings, more for spotlight nights depending on the act. Completely acoustic, no amps. Drinks at club prices, plenty of car parking. Telephone Malcolm Shipp on 01380 827041 or 07894 707965 .

Phil Rosenthal at Amberley Folk Club, Amberley, Sussex
"Phil Rosenthal is a nationally renowned singer, songwriter, recording artist and record producer. For many years the lead singer and guitarist in the popular bluegrass group The Seldom Scene, he is also highly respected for his instrumental skills on banjo and mandolin."

Steve Tilston at Dartford Folk Club, Dartford, Kent
"...that very rare combination of singer, songwriter and guitarist who actually excels in all departments..." Froots

Folk at The Greyhound at the Greyhound, Flempton Nr. Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk
Folk Session, All Welcome

The Globe Acoustic Sessions at The Globe Pub, Winfield Street, Dunstable, Bedfordshire
All styles are welcome, it's totally acoustic and we have everything from bluegrass, contemporary self-penned and trad folk going on.
contact email is flashmeister84@gmail.com

The Fay Hield Trio at Great Knight Folk Club, Northampton
"Fay Hield has been singing traditional songs from an early age. She was active in the lively music scene at the Famous Bacca Pipes Folk Club; subsequently she helped form the female a Capella group The Witches of Elswick. After a year or two off the folk radar, she is touring with Rob Harbron (English Acoustic Collective) and Sam Sweeney (Bellowhead)."

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

Jack Lawrence and Richard Plank at The Brown Cow Folk Club, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
'On a rare visit from the USA, we welcome Jack Lawrence (Doc Watson’s musical partner & one of the most influential flat picking guitarist around) who is playing tonight with Richard Plank from the UK. Jack and Richard will be coming direct from the Didmarton Bluegrass Festival'

Les Barker at The Vernon Arms Folk Club, 21 Locko Rd, Spondon. Derby
The one and only Les Barker, poet and raconteur extraordinaire!

Singers Night at Belper Folk Club, Belper, Derbyshire

Rachel Harrington and Rod Clements at The Processed Pea, Beverley, East Yorkshire
“Compared favourably with Gillian Welch and the young Emmylou Harris, Seattle's Rachel Harrington is the rising star of Americana and keeping the ancient art of the musical storyteller alive. For her 2010 tour she is accompanied by master slide guitarist, Bert Jansch collaborator Lindisfarne founder member, Rod Clements."

Singers Night at Cramlington Folk Club, Dewley, Cramlington, Northumberland

Elliot Brood at The Captains Rest, Glasgow
"Stalking shadows on the prairies with a compass and set of matches, shaking the mountains loose with howls and footstomps and, settled in meadows, while whispering tales under darkening skies, obsessed with history or historically obsessed, either way, Elliott BROOD have a penchant for stories they just can’t shake."

Pokey LaFarge & The South City 3 at The Old Library Centre 9 High Barholm, Kilbarchan, Renfrewshire
“Lawd knows we need people like Pokey LaFarge. Coming on like a b*st*rd son (ed for firewall lunacy) of Woody Guthrie and Blind Blake, this is the kind of stuff Ry Cooder’s been trying to do for decades: no-holds-barred, honest-to-goodness sheet-kicking music of the highest order. Pokey’s forte are hot little vignettes like Walk Your Way Out Of This Town and I Don’t Mind Dyin’, dusty slices of timeless Americana coloured with peeping harmonica and blasting kazoo. ............ A lo-fi gem from an, as yet, unsung troubadour” Julian Piper, Acoustic magazine

Steve Turner at Leith Folk Club, Edinburgh
"A shining example of the music the British folk scene is capable of producing."
FRoots

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Wednesday 8th September 2010

Phil Rosenthal at Baldock and Letchworth Folk Club, Baldock, Hertfordshire
"Phil Rosenthal is a nationally renowned singer, songwriter, recording artist and record producer. For many years the lead singer and guitarist in the popular bluegrass group The Seldom Scene, he is also highly respected for his instrumental skills on banjo and mandolin."

Folk Session at The White Horse Inn, Edwardstone, Suffolk
All Welcome

Folk at The Bull at The Bull, The Street, Woolpit, Nr. Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk
Folk Session, All Welcome

'Folk, Roots and Blues' at Falcon Inn, Hinstock, Market Drayton, Shropshire
Good music, company, beer and food, need more info call John 07800 663 953

Elliot Brood at The Cluny, Newcastle Upon Tyne
"Stalking shadows on the prairies with a compass and set of matches, shaking the mountains loose with howls and footstomps and, settled in meadows, while whispering tales under darkening skies, obsessed with history or historically obsessed, either way, Elliott BROOD have a penchant for stories they just can’t shake."

Just Voices at Dunfermline Folk Club, Dunfermline, Fife
“Acappella group of women who sing an eclectic mix of songs, old and new, from around the world. Alison Goodmin, Alison Vasey, Irene Railley, Kath Latham, Linda MacPhee, Ulla Lorrimer, and Yvonne Eardley.”

Pokey LaFarge & The South City 3 at Carnegie Hall, Dunfermline, Fife
“Lawd knows we need people like Pokey LaFarge. Coming on like a b*st*rd son (ed for firewall lunacy) of Woody Guthrie and Blind Blake, this is the kind of stuff Ry Cooder’s been trying to do for decades: no-holds-barred, honest-to-goodness sheet-kicking music of the highest order. Pokey’s forte are hot little vignettes like Walk Your Way Out Of This Town and I Don’t Mind Dyin’, dusty slices of timeless Americana coloured with peeping harmonica and blasting kazoo. ............ A lo-fi gem from an, as yet, unsung troubadour” Julian Piper, Acoustic magazine

Hans Theessink at Irvine Folk Club, Irvine
Hans Theessink is hailed as "A master of the blues guitar", described by Bo Diddley as "one helluva guitar player" and by the US 'Blues Revue' as "An international blues treasure".

Steve Turner at Haddington Folk club, The Mercati Hotel, Haddington, Mid Lothian
"A shining example of the music the British folk scene is capable of producing."
FRoots

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Thursday 9th September 2010

Fay Hield at The Green Note, Camden, London
"Fay Hield has been singing traditional songs from an alarmingly early age. She was active in the lively music scene centred around the Famous Bacca Pipes Folk Club in Keighley, was instrumental in launching the Haworth Arts Festival and the Three’s Company folk agency and promotions organisation, and was part of a highly-regarded duo with Damien Barber."

Foghorn Leghorn at The Betsy Trotwood, Clerkenwell, London
Monthly Bluegrass Night

Pete Morton at Islington Folk Club, Clerkenwell, London
"Folk singer Pete Morton is a songwriter and performer originally from Leicester, in the English midlands, who currently lives in London. With a wealth of great songs and stage presence, his show is dynamic and intense as well as approachable and fun loving."

In the English Tradition at The Kings Place Arts Centre, Islington, London
"This fantastic evening of concerts brings together four of English folk music’s most influential and popular performers: Eliza Carthy, Martin Carthy, Dave Swarbrick and Chris Wood."

Elliot Brood at The Borderline, London
"Stalking shadows on the prairies with a compass and set of matches, shaking the mountains loose with howls and footstomps and, settled in meadows, while whispering tales under darkening skies, obsessed with history or historically obsessed, either way, Elliott BROOD have a penchant for stories they just can’t shake."

Drew Nelson at The Windjammer, Dartmouth, Devon
"Drew Nelson is one of my favorite new artists. He is an excellent guitarist as well as an accomplished songwriter. His songs sound like the rest of us feel. Drew's characters are anything but defeated. They are dazed,angry, amazed and climbing." -John Gorka

The Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band at Bournemouth Folk Club, Centre Stage, Queens Road, Bournemouth, Dorset
'The Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band consists of dyed-in-the wool traditional players with over 100 years of combined live gigging experience. Joining guitarist Peter Rowan are Jody Stecher, mandolin; Keith Little, banjo; and Paul Knight, bass. The ensemble has graced the stages of Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, Grey Fox, Merlefest, Rothbury and numerous other festivals, entertaining audiences with original songs executed in vibrant harmony.'

Taffy Thomas and Aimee Thomas at Folk at The Royal Oak, Lewes, Sussex
"Britain’s first Laureate for Storytelling and an MBE for services to storytelling and charity shares the evening with his daughter’s lovely singing voice."

Singers and Musicians Night at Orpington Folk Club, Orpington, Kent

Richard Kitson at The Acoustic Cafe, Arrington, Cambridgeshire

Phil Rosenthal at Cwmaman Institute & Public Hall, Alice Place, Aberdare, Rhondda Cynon Taf
"Phil Rosenthal is a nationally renowned singer, songwriter, recording artist and record producer. For many years the lead singer and guitarist in the popular bluegrass group The Seldom Scene, he is also highly respected for his instrumental skills on banjo and mandolin."

Jez Lowe and The Bad Pennies at Bromsgrove Folk Club, Bromsgrove, West Midlands
"Jez Lowe and The Bad Pennies have been playing their songs and music of Northern England for a decade and a half around the folk festivals, clubs and concert stages of the world. "Acoustic simplicity coupled with electric vitality" was how they were described in their early days, and with half a dozen albums to their credit, along with solo albums by Jez and by other members of the group, their following has continued to increase."

Singaround at The Tump Folk Club, Coombe Social Club, Brinklow Road, Coventry, West Midlands

Singers Night at Gregson Lane Folk Club, Gregson Lane, Hoghton, Lancashire

Rachel Harrington and Rod Clements at Garstang Unplugged Garstang, Lancashire
“Compared favourably with Gillian Welch and the young Emmylou Harris, Seattle's Rachel Harrington is the rising star of Americana and keeping the ancient art of the musical storyteller alive. For her 2010 tour she is accompanied by master slide guitarist, Bert Jansch collaborator Lindisfarne founder member, Rod Clements."

Eilidh Grant & Peter Cooke at Crail Folk Club, Crail, Fife
"Eilidh’s stunning voice beautifully renders both classic folk songs and original material. With a love for traditional and contemporary folk alike, underpinned by a passion for Burns, Eilidh has made a considerable impression on the Scottish and Irish folk scene. Her vocal style, with shades of a Caledonian Joni Mitchell, won her the Danny Kyle Award at the 2004 Celtic Connections festival."

Skee 'n' Doo at Eddys Acoustic Nights, Kirkcaldy, Fife
"Levenmouth band Skee'n'Doo are a musically energised trio who strive to keep the traditional spirit of Scotland alive. They compose their own songs as well as revitalising traditional tunes with their own, unique style. The previous summer they recorded their debut CD "And Then There Were Three" and more recently have been busking at The Tartan Heart festival in Belladrum, and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. They have been playing... celtic music together for four years and their passion and chemistry on stage is reflected by an up-beat, stamp your feet, energy."

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Friday 10th September 2010

SOLD OUT The Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band at The Green Note, Camden, London - SOLD OUT
"The Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band consists of dyed-in-the wool traditional players with over 100 years of combined live gigging experience. Joining guitarist Peter Rowan are Jody Stecher, mandolin; Keith Little, banjo; and Paul Knight, bass. The ensemble has graced the stages of Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, Grey Fox, Merlefest, Rothbury and numerous other festivals, entertaining audiences with original songs executed in vibrant harmony.
In 2010, the Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band signed to roots-music label Compass Records and are slated to record their first album in April 2010 in Nashville, Tennessee. The new album, featuring traditional and original compositions, will be produced by Compass owner/recording artist Alison Brown and feature very special guests, soon to be announced.”

Folk Made in the UK at The Kings Place Arts Centre, Islington, London
"Red Orange audience and arts development present three different approaches to folk music in the UK: interpretations of traditional English tunes and songs; happy, non-stop, danceable Gaelic folk/roots/world music; and new folk adventures based on international explorations."
Featuring: Nick Wyke and Becki Driscoll, Monster Ceilidh Band and Andrew Cronshaw and Tigran Aleksanyan

Tatcho Drom at Upstairs at The Ritzy, Brixton, South London
"Tatcho Drom, which means "true journey" in the Romany tongue, is a London-based quintet playing acoustic music from the Balkans and beyond with the flair and passion of generations past. They bring an infectious energy, spirit and humour to their performances, enchanting their audiences onto the dance floor."

Steve Turner at The Goose is Out Folk Club, The Magnolia, 211 Lordship Lane, East Dulwich, South London SE22 8HA
A shining example of the music the British folk scene is capable of producing.
FRoots

La Paranza Del Geco - Tarantella & Pizzica at The Inn on the Green, Ladbroke Grove, West London
Italian Traditional Song and Dance

Drew Nelson at Café No 8, Launceston, Cornwall 01566 777369
"Drew Nelson is one of my favorite new artists. He is an excellent guitarist as well as an accomplished songwriter. His songs sound like the rest of us feel. Drew's characters are anything but defeated. They are dazed,angry, amazed and climbing." -John Gorka

Reg Meuross at Bath Folk Club, Bath, Somerset
'One of Britains finest Singer/Songwriters' - Time Out Magazine.
'There's something special about the way he writes and delivers a song' - Townes Van Zandt

James Hollingsworth at The Bear, 1 High Street, Marlborough, Wiltshire
"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

Stompin' Dave at The Platform Tavern, Southampton, Hampshire
"Stompin' Dave Allen performs American roots music on guitar, five-string banjo, fiddle, piano, harmonica, vocals & tap dancing. Dave specializes in American roots music: old-time, bluegrass, blues, country blues, folk, vintage country & hillbilly. Traditional songs & tunes, originals & covers."

Kristina Olsen & Peter Grayling at The Ram Folk Club, Thames Ditton, Surrey
"San Francisco-born KRISTINA is one of the most entertaining and powerful performers on the international folk circuit. A wonderful multi-instrumentalist (acoustic guitar, steel-body slide guitar, saxophone, concertina and piano) and songwriter with a big raw velvet bluesy voice, Kristina is a true troubadour. Her strong songs - from hilarious tales of love-gone-wrong to others of rare insight and compassion - have been much-covered but are most compelling when sung by their maker. Cellist and long-time collaborator PETER takes an instrument rarely seen off the classical stage (he is Principal Cellist with Australia’s top Symphony orchestras) and weaves it through Kristina's songs, enriching the ballads with a gorgeous, mellow sound and driving along the bluesy numbers with punchy playing and recklessly passionate solos. And it works beautifully!"

Get Rhythm Presents...Hootenanny @ The Worlds End, Brighton
Every 2nd Friday of the month at The Worlds End, London Rd, Brighton - not only will there be some truly amazing country, bluegrass and Americana bands (plugged IN) but also Straw & Bunting! From 8, free entry + pass the hat

Sam Carter at The Crown, Otford, Kent
"Winner of 2010 bbc folk horizon award for best newcomer Sam Carter is a precocious young singer and guitarist from Rutland. Since moving to London in 2004 he has been busily honing his craft as a writer and performer. Sam has studied guitar with Martin Simpson and supported Bellowhead on their ‘Matachin’ album launch tour, which led Bellowhead lead singer Jon Boden to hail him as ‘the finest English-style finger-picking guitarist of his generation’."

Pete Morton at Waveney Folk Club, Crown Street Hall, Factory St Entrance, Lowestoft, Suffolk
"Folk singer Pete Morton is a songwriter and performer originally from Leicester, in the English midlands, who currently lives in London. With a wealth of great songs and stage presence, his show is dynamic and intense as well as approachable and fun loving."

Chris Newman and Maire Ni Chathasaigh at Cambridge Folk Club, Cambridge
"The singing and playing are so moving, so wonderfully executed with such technical brilliance and beauty... that they actually bring tears to one's eyes... a lasting and unforgettable memory" - Irish Music Magazine

Singers Night at The Woodman Folk Club, Kingswinford, West Midlands
All Welcome

Rachel Harrington and Rod Clements at The Rock Maltby, Nr Rotherham, South Yorkshire
“Compared favourably with Gillian Welch and the young Emmylou Harris, Seattle's Rachel Harrington is the rising star of Americana and keeping the ancient art of the musical storyteller alive. For her 2010 tour she is accompanied by master slide guitarist, Bert Jansch collaborator Lindisfarne founder member, Rod Clements."

Little Giants at The Peacock Lounge, 6 Railway Arches, Viaduct Street, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire
"LITTLEgiants’ music is a unique blend of old time, blues, country, bluegrass, rockabilly and just about anything as long as it’s raw, and passionate."

Cloudstreet at Reeth Memorial Hall, Reeth nr Richmond, North Yorkshire
"Cloudstreet's Nicole Murray and John Thompson perform New Australian folk music, a combination of Anglo-Celtic and Australian traditional songs and tunes, coupled with trad-styled original songs. They take traditional folk song, shake it vigorously, add exquisite harmonies and a mountain of fun to produce heart-lifting shows that excite, entertain and delight. In concert, they deliver a powerful and moving musical experience, whether to dozens or thousands"

Blueflint at Hootanannys, 67 Church Street, Inverness
"Stories of heartbreak, revenge and plenty more drama...Their sublime delicate vocal harmonising adds a layer of achingly melancholy beauty to every song...their wonderful take on Americana could warm the coldest of hearts."

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Saturday 11th September 2010

Folkworks – Tradition and Innovation at The Kings Place Arts Centre, Islington, London
"A series of three concerts celebrating the folk and traditional music of our islands with some of the country’s best-loved and well-established names as well as newer artists who are taking the tradition forwards."
Featuring: John Kirkpatrick, Jonny Kearney and Lucy Farrell, The Askew Sisters and Nancy Kerr and James Fagan

Drew Nelson at The Blue Walnut Cafe, Chelston, Torquay, Devon
"Drew Nelson is one of my favorite new artists. He is an excellent guitarist as well as an accomplished songwriter. His songs sound like the rest of us feel. Drew's characters are anything but defeated. They are dazed,angry, amazed and climbing." -John Gorka

Stompin' Dave at The Wheatsheaf Inn, Shedfield, Southampton, Hampshire
"Stompin' Dave Allen performs American roots music on guitar, five-string banjo, fiddle, piano, harmonica, vocals & tap dancing. Dave specializes in American roots music: old-time, bluegrass, blues, country blues, folk, vintage country & hillbilly. Traditional songs & tunes, originals & covers."

Uiscedwr at The Phoenix Arts Centre, Hastings, East Sussex
“Uiscedwr (pronounced "ish-ka-dooer") is a trio which plays British folk music influenced by world music. The group was originally based in Manchester and went on to win the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award in 2002.
Their first album gained them a nomination for the Horizon Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards in 2005. By this time, Uiscedwr was mixing British folk music with a strong Celtic bias with other influences including jazz, European folk and world musics."

Rachel Harrington and Rod Clements at Acoustic Routes, Cambridge
“Compared favourably with Gillian Welch and the young Emmylou Harris, Seattle's Rachel Harrington is the rising star of Americana and keeping the ancient art of the musical storyteller alive. For her 2010 tour she is accompanied by master slide guitarist, Bert Jansch collaborator Lindisfarne founder member, Rod Clements."

Steve Tilston at The Red Shed, 18 Vicarage Street, Wakefield, West Yorkshire
"...that very rare combination of singer, songwriter and guitarist who actually excels in all departments..." Froots

Jez Lowe and The Bad Pennies at Lamplight Arts Centre, Stanley, County Durham
"Jez Lowe and The Bad Pennies have been playing their songs and music of Northern England for a decade and a half around the folk festivals, clubs and concert stages of the world. "Acoustic simplicity coupled with electric vitality" was how they were described in their early days, and with half a dozen albums to their credit, along with solo albums by Jez and by other members of the group, their following has continued to increase."

The Fay Hield Trio at The Davy Lamp Folk Club, Washington, Tyne and Wear
"Fay Hield has been singing traditional songs from an early age. She was active in the lively music scene at the Famous Bacca Pipes Folk Club; subsequently she helped form the female a Capella group The Witches of Elswick. After a year or two off the folk radar, she is touring with Rob Harbron (English Acoustic Collective) and Sam Sweeney (Bellowhead)."

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Sunday 12th September 2010

Khyam Allami & Nicoletta Demetrious at Green Note, Camden, London Doors 1:00pm
An exciting and exclusive series of collaborations by London based Iraqi ‘Ud player Khyam Allami focusing on music from the Middle East, the Mediterranean and elsewhere. A perfect way to spend an autumn Sunday. Second and last Sunday afternoon of the month. Each session will feature two sets with two different groups of musicians performing different repertoire.
After a hectic year of travels and major performances at WOMAD and the Royal Albert Hall as part of the Proms, Khyam will kick off this series of collaborations with a set of solo ‘Ud followed by a set with Cypriot singer Nicoletta Demetriou. Following their beautiful session for BBC R3's World Routes earlier this year, this is their first proper live performance.

Jim Causley at Walthamstow Folk Club, Walthamstow, East London
"Former Mawkin:Causley frontman, Devon born Jim has established himself as one of the key figures in the contemporary folk scene."

Sona Jobarteh at The Front Room, South Bank, Waterloo, London 4:00pm Free
"Sensational new kora player Sona Jobarteh brings freshness to the sound of the kora with modern music."

Reg Meuross at Twickfolk, Twickenham, West London
'One of Britains finest Singer/Songwriters' - Time Out Magazine.
'The best high tenor voice this side of the Atlantic' - Hank Wangford

Singers/Musicians Night at Wheal Dream Folk, Wendron, Nr. Helston, Cornwall
There is a warm welcome for all singers and musicians. Or, just come along and enjoy the best Folk Music in West Cornwall

The Curst Sons at The Bee Hive, Prospect Hill, Swindon, Wiltshire 3:00pm
The Curst Sons - Inspired by American traditional music with an added shot of urban grit and dose of wry humour the Sons powerful rootsy songs combine Old Time, Hillbilly and Hellfire Gospel. The powerful stripped down live shows are a wonder to behold.

Liz Simcock at Reading Folk Club, Reading, Berkshire
"Liz is a great songwriter and gorgeous singer with a relaxed and very endearing stage presence. She is going from strength to strength as a performer and stands alongside any of the female singer/songwriters currently working on the acoustic/folk music scene. In '99 she featured on the excellent Playpen Album of New Acoustic Music alongside Eliza Carthy, Billy Bragg and Eddy Reader, but now concentrates on her solo studio career or performing in the trio with Ian Newman (bass) and Warwick Jones (guitar)."

Jez Lowe and The Bad Pennies at Hitchin Folk Club, Hitchin, Hertfordshire
"Jez Lowe and The Bad Pennies have been playing their songs and music of Northern England for a decade and a half around the folk festivals, clubs and concert stages of the world. "Acoustic simplicity coupled with electric vitality" was how they were described in their early days, and with half a dozen albums to their credit, along with solo albums by Jez and by other members of the group, their following has continued to increase."

The Carnival Band at St Marys Church, Church Lane, Cropredy, Oxfordshire
"The Carnival Band - 5 Musical Explorers, 5 voices, 25 instruments, 5 dozen styles of music and 5 hundred fresh ideas for music-making, combining music from across the centuries with sounds from around the world in an irreverently joyous mix!"

Singers and Musicians Acoustic session at The Bell Inn, Newport Road, Tong Shropshire (12 noon and 4pm) 01952 850210
The event will be held in our function room on the 1st floor, Food is available all day from 12 noon, Carvery etc between 12 noon and 3PM,full menu and specials there after until 9.30pm.
Open Fires lit throughout the winter months.
Admission is FREE

Flaxenby at The Wheatsheaf, 50 High Street, Shrewsbury, Shropshire
Flaxenby provide a timeless, contemporary tilt on folk...The lyrical quality of the songwriting portrays an edgy, graceful energy, interwoven with experienced musical skill that creates that Flaxenby sound...
Sam McLeod blends her folk, rock and jazz influences with a bluesy depth with instinctive, vocal versitility. Chris Buttery's earthy vocals and americana influenced songwriting has stood him in good stead in the past as a founder member of Bill Caddick's 'Jackfield Riverbillies'. Andy Jones's perfect expression on the fiddle complements with soft celtic undertones.

Sweng at Calver Village Hall, Calver, Derbyshire
"Sweng are traditional music quartet playing music from England and Sweden on three fiddles and a bass drone mandola."

No Fixed Abode at The Bath Hotel, Sheffield, South Yorkshire
"No Fixed Abode are a blend of Una Walsh (vocals) and Tony Dean (guitar). Una originates in Ireland and has a voice as rich and smooth as the finest Irish malt whiskey. Tony’s guitar playing provides the ice. Together they invite you to sit back relax and enjoy Their mix of original acoustic songs blended together in a unique way that will take you on a magical mystery tour of your emotions."

Sam Baker at The Brudenell Social Club, Leeds, West Yorkshire
Americana Singer Songwriter

Moishe's Bagel at The Catstrand, High St, New Galloway, Castle Douglas, Kirkcudbrightshire
Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk music with the excitement and soul of improvisation. Enjoy a concert of thrillingly original cutting-edge klezmer and folk music from some of Scotland’s finest musicians. An intoxicating, life-affirming mix of Eastern European dance music, Middle Eastern rhythms and virtuoso performances.
‘Exhilarating, full-flavoured stuff, often breath-takingly intricate but played with jubilation...the Bagel acquires the momentum of an express train’ The Herald

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Monday 13th September 2010

Korean Music Ensemble: Baramgot at The Purcell Room, South Bank, Waterloo, London 7:45pm
"Leading a new wave of Korean traditional music Baramgot (led by Won, Il) bring a fresh approach to the mystical, dynamic sounds of their country's musical heritage."

Bob Rafkin at The Slaughtered Lamb, Clerkenwell, London
"Legendary finger-style guitarist and instrument maker, Bob Rafkin made his name in New York’s Greenwich Village in the 1960s, contributing to recordings by Joni Mitchell, Tim Buckley, Gene Vincent, The Everly Brothers and Randy Newman. He has had one of his songs recorded by The Byrds and since toured as support to Willie Nelson and Don Williams."

Drew Nelson at The 12 Bar Club, Soho, London
"Drew Nelson is one of my favorite new artists. He is an excellent guitarist as well as an accomplished songwriter. His songs sound like the rest of us feel. Drew's characters are anything but defeated. They are dazed,angry, amazed and climbing." -John Gorka

Flossie Malavialle at Croydon Folk Club, Croydon, Surrey
"Flossie Malavialle is a French singer who started getting involved in the British folk scene in 2000-2001. Her repertoire is very open as she likes all sorts of different music genres. Her songs include famous numbers, including Allan Taylor’s “Roll on the day”, Kieran Halpin’s “Making up the miles”, Colum Sands’ “The child who asks why”, Starrett and Laird’s “John Condon” So even if you have never seen or heard her before, surely there will be something in her repertoire to suit your taste!"

Crayside Folk Club, at The Seven Stars, Foots Cray High Street, Sidcup, Kent
Informal Session/Singaround

Dave & Issy Emeney & Kate Riaz at The Tudor Folk Club, Chesham, Buckinghamshire
"Issy & David are great - I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone who loves quality folk music" Vin Garbutt

Singaround at The Vernon Arms Folk Club, 21 Locko Rd, Spondon. Derby

Singers Night at Skipton Folk Unplugged, The Narrow Boat, 38 Victoria Street, Skipton, North Yorkshire
Singers, musicians, poets and all always welcome

Club Night at The Bridge Folk Club, Newcastle Upon Tyne

Moishe's Bagel at Paisley Arts Centre, Paisley, Renfrewshire
Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk music with the excitement and soul of improvisation. Enjoy a concert of thrillingly original cutting-edge klezmer and folk music from some of Scotland’s finest musicians. An intoxicating, life-affirming mix of Eastern European dance music, Middle Eastern rhythms and virtuoso performances.
‘Exhilarating, full-flavoured stuff, often breath-takingly intricate but played with jubilation...the Bagel acquires the momentum of an express train’ The Herald

Hans Theessink at Glenfarg Folk Club, Glenfarg, Perth
Hans Theessink is hailed as "A master of the blues guitar", described by Bo Diddley as "one helluva guitar player" and by the US 'Blues Revue' as "An international blues treasure".

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Tuesday 14th September 2010

Kristina Olsen and Peter Grayling at The Future Inn, Bristol
"A fine instrumentalist (acoustic guitar, steel-body slide guitar, saxophone, concertina and piano) as well as a powerful songwriter with a big bluesy voice, Kristina has audiences around the world coming back for more.
Her mix of strong songs in the troubadour tradition, some jazz-inspired sounds and powerful bottleneck blues (as well as her hilarious storytelling) makes for a diverse and satisfying musical experience, on stage and on disc."

Drew Nelson at Mrs Yarringtons Music Club, Crowhurst Park, Battle, Sussex
"Drew Nelson is one of my favorite new artists. He is an excellent guitarist as well as an accomplished songwriter. His songs sound like the rest of us feel. Drew's characters are anything but defeated. They are dazed,angry, amazed and climbing." -John Gorka

Joe Broughton & Kevin Dempsey at The Hoy at Anchor Folk Club, Leigh on Sea, Essex
"These two virtuosi of guitar and fiddle like to do their own thing, when they're not earning their crusts in big bands, jazz-rock, pop and soul gigs and the likes of Whippersnapper and the Albion Band. Joe has been playing since he was in the pram and has a PhD in circus skills and mad banter. Kevin has been around a bit longer and has played a few more notes. Musically they're tighter than two coats of paint. Expect anything!"

David Rotheray, Bella Hardy & Jim Causley at The Stables, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire

"Highly successful songwriter and instigator of The Beautiful South with Paul Heaton, David Rotheray releases his latest album in July 2010. Entitled The Life Of Birds, the album is a modern folk concept album, featuring collaborations with many singer/songwriters from the contemporary scene, including Jim Causley and Bella Hardy who will guest with him tonight. An intriguing collision between Nashville and Whitby, where Rotheray's country instincts blend naturally with the folkier leanings of his collaborators.
“The subtle British humour of the Beautiful South is ever present in Rotheray’s lyrics, turning the everyday into objects of musical poetry…” Maverick magazine"

Singers Night at The Brown Cow Folk Club, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
"all singers, musicians & listeners welcome "

Open Mic at The Vernon Arms Folk Club, 21 Locko Rd, Spondon. Derby

Singers Night at Belper Folk Club, Belper, Derbyshire

John Kirkpatrick at Kiveton Park Folk Club, Kiveton Park, South Yorkshire
"One of the most prolific figures on the English Folk Scene with an enviable reputation as an instrumental virtuoso and songwriter."

Moishe's Bagel at The Tolbooth, Jail Wynd, Stirling
Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk music with the excitement and soul of improvisation. Enjoy a concert of thrillingly original cutting-edge klezmer and folk music from some of Scotland’s finest musicians. An intoxicating, life-affirming mix of Eastern European dance music, Middle Eastern rhythms and virtuoso performances.
‘Exhilarating, full-flavoured stuff, often breath-takingly intricate but played with jubilation...the Bagel acquires the momentum of an express train’ The Herald

Phil Rosenthal at Leith Folk Club, Edinburgh
"For many years the lead singer and guitarist in the popular bluegrass group The Seldom Scene, he is also highly respected for his instrumental skills on banjo and mandolin."

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Wednesday 15th September 2010

Bob Rafkin + Andrew Duhon + Kyle Grace at SoftlySoftly, The Albert & Pearl, 181 Upper Street, Islington, London N1 1RQ
Bob Rafkin - With roots going back to 60s Greenwich village scene, Florida singer-songwriter Rafkin has performed as a back up guitarist for many artists including; Joni Mitchell, Arlo Guthrie, Phil Ochs, The Everly Brothers and Eric Andersen. His song Lazy Waters was recorded by the Byrds. A great solo rootsy performer with accomplished fingerpicking style and strong vocals.
Andrew Duhon - All the way from Louisiana, another accomplished US troubadour, with shades of Ray LaMontagne, Duhon sings poetic, soulful, emotion-filled songs, sometimes with a country/bluesy melancholy touch.
Kyle Grace - A regular performer at SoftlySoftly, Grace has recently returned to songwriting and presents some of his recent acoustic repertoire.

Kristina Olsen and Peter Grayling at The Gallery, Queens Theatre, Barnstaple, Devon
"A fine instrumentalist (acoustic guitar, steel-body slide guitar, saxophone, concertina and piano) as well as a powerful songwriter with a big bluesy voice, Kristina has audiences around the world coming back for more.
Her mix of strong songs in the troubadour tradition, some jazz-inspired sounds and powerful bottleneck blues (as well as her hilarious storytelling) makes for a diverse and satisfying musical experience, on stage and on disc."

Singaround at The White Horse Folk Club, The Fox Inn, Swindon Street, Highworth, Wiltshire

Jonny Kearney & Lucy Farrell at The Prince Albert, Brighton, Sussex

Drew Nelson at The Bluebell Inn, Saffron Walden, Essex
"Drew Nelson is one of my favorite new artists. He is an excellent guitarist as well as an accomplished songwriter. His songs sound like the rest of us feel. Drew's characters are anything but defeated. They are dazed,angry, amazed and climbing." -John Gorka

The Spikedrivers at The Malt Shovel, 121 Bridge Street, Northampton
'One of the most original, innovative and exciting bands around, their combination of gutsy slide guitar, rock-solid bass, infectious grooves and highly distinctive vocals, creates a sound that is uniquely their own. They take you on a journey, from southern juke-joints and lazy front porches to the huge open spaces of dust bowls and railroad tracks disappearing into the distance..... '

The Jo Freya Trio at Llantrisant Folk Club, The Windsor Hotel, Llantrisant Road, Pontyclun, Mid Glamorgan
"comes from a pioneering background in folk and acoustic music. You will have seen her performing live as part of Blowzabella, The Old Swan Band, Coope/Boyes/Simpson/Freya/Fraser/Boyes, Token Women, Scarp, and previously as a duo with Kathryn Locke, Pete Morton and in recorded collaborations with Lal Waterson, Annie Williamson and Anne Lister."

The Old Dance School and Sweng at The Hare and Hounds, Birmingham
The Old Dance School: One of the young folk scene’s hottest up and coming acts, this Birmingham based septet offers evocative images, blistering tunes and vivid songs whilst drawing from their classical and jazz informed backgrounds.
"Sweng are traditional music quartet playing music from England and Sweden on three fiddles and a bass drone mandola."

Birmingham Storytelling Cafe featuring: Xanthe Gresham - Witches and Wishes at The Kitchen Garden Cafe, York Road, Kings Heath, Birmingham
“Gresham is a composite storyteller who unwraps each story like the petals of a lotus flower” – British Theatre Review

Corinne West & Kelly-Jo Phelps at The Palm House, Sefton Park, Liverpool, Merseyside
Different Strings in association with Colin Hall present Corinne West who performs a unique blend of elegant, sexy, acoustic jazz-rock-folk, with gorgeous vocal infusions of honey and smoke. The strength of her songwriting, the power of her voice and her magnetic stage presence bring the promise of a captivating evening.
Joining Corinne is Kelly Joe Phelps, who plays, sings, and writes smouldering, lonesome blues. His bourbon and tobacco shrouded music has received some amazing reviews - both for his albums and his live shows.

Tom McConville and David Newey at The Old Ship Inn, Lowdham, Nottinghamshire
"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 Turner at The Old Oak, Horsley Woodhouse, Derbyshire
"A shining example of the music the British folk scene is capable of producing."
FRoots

Joe Broughton & Kevin Dempsey at Burnley Folk Club, Burnley, Lancashire
"These two virtuosi of guitar and fiddle like to do their own thing, when they're not earning their crusts in big bands, jazz-rock, pop and soul gigs and the likes of Whippersnapper and the Albion Band. Joe has been playing since he was in the pram and has a PhD in circus skills and mad banter. Kevin has been around a bit longer and has played a few more notes. Musically they're tighter than two coats of paint. Expect anything!"

Sean Donnelly at Dunfermline Folk Club, Dunfermline, Fife
".... the unmistakable voice of northern Irish Folk singing presents his fine collection of songs performed with love and gentle care. This is as real as it gets!" ... Andy Irvine "There is a gentleness in the mans voice and a kindness in the guitar that unwrinkles the mind and body and you are glad you came along "... Tommy Sands.

Hans Theessink at Edinburgh Folk Club, Edinburgh
Hans Theessink is hailed as "A master of the blues guitar", described by Bo Diddley as "one helluva guitar player" and by the US 'Blues Revue' as "An international blues treasure".

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Thursday 16th September 2010

Darden Smith at Green Note, Camden, London
"Darden Smith’s latest album ‘After all this time’ draws prime cuts from all 10 of Smith’s acclaimed studio albums including his collaboration with Boo Hewerdine, Evidence, and celebrates his 25 years of creating distinguished music of the highest quality, literacy, emotional impact and allure. Hailed by critics as a “a singer/songwriter blessed with an uncommon degree of intelligence, depth, and compassion” (All Music Guide) and “an artist beyond category” (No Depression), he boasts a broad appeal from how he has woven rock, pop, country, folk, Americana, jazz and his Texas musical roots into a distinctive body of work."

Sweng at The National Theatre Foyer, South Bank, Waterloo, London 5:45pm Free
"Sweng are traditional music quartet playing music from England and Sweden on three fiddles and a bass drone mandola."

Sweng at Islington Folk Club, Clerkenwell, London
"Sweng are traditional music quartet playing music from England and Sweden on three fiddles and a bass drone mandola."

Irish Traditional Folk Session at The Drifwood Spars, Trevaunance Cove, St. Agnes, Cornwall 8:30 onwards
All Welcome

Lil' Kitties at Wick Village Hall Manor Road, Wick, South Gloucestershire
"Formally of the American oldtime band the Kittyhawks, Lucy Ray (mandolin) and Mo Jackson (clawhammer banjo), play both originals and many traditional oldtime songs from Appalachia. The special ingredients of Lucy’s dark, authentic American voice combined with Mo’s sweet haunting harmonies is as compelling as ever. Good ol’ mountain music, which will appeal to fans of ‘Oh Brother where art thou’."

Rachel Harrington and Rod Clements at Bournemouth Folk Club, Centre Stage, Queens Road, Bournemouth, Dorset
'From the crossroads of country, folk & bluegrass, acclaimed American singer-songwriter Rachel Harrington is a roots musician in the purest sense whose unique artistry captures the deep links between country, gospel and soul. Her songs are a primer in Americana, telling personal and mythical stories from the American West. Championed by Bob Harris of Radio 2, her two acclaimed albums hit the top spot of the Euro-Americana Chart. Rachel will be performing with master guitarist and ex-Lindisfarne hitmaker Rod Clements whose consummate musicianship and illustrious folk-roots credentials ensure the perfect accompaniment to Rachel's haunting songs.'

Wokingham Folk and Blues Club at The Hope and Anchor, Station Road, Wokingham , Berkshire
"If you play an acoustic instrument and/or sing and love performing, the Wokingham Folk and Acoustic Blues Club is for you.
The inspiration of Bruce Neil and Chris Jones, the Club is designed to provide a forum where like-minded musicians can come together, exchange ideas and play for and with each other."

John Conolly at Folk at The Royal Oak, Lewes, Sussex
"The internationally-respected songwriter with his universally known “Fiddlers’ Green” and many other fine songs"

John Breeze at Orpington Folk Club, Orpington, Kent

Liz Simcock at Stortfolk, Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire
"Liz is a great songwriter and gorgeous singer with a relaxed and very endearing stage presence. She is going from strength to strength as a performer and stands alongside any of the female singer/songwriters currently working on the acoustic/folk music scene. In '99 she featured on the excellent Playpen Album of New Acoustic Music alongside Eliza Carthy, Billy Bragg and Eddy Reader, but now concentrates on her solo studio career or performing in the trio with Ian Newman (bass) and Warwick Jones (guitar)."

Singaround at The Tump Folk Club, Coombe Social Club, Brinklow Road, Coventry, West Midlands

Steve Tilston at Newport Folk Club, Newport, South Wales
"...that very rare combination of singer, songwriter and guitarist who actually excels in all departments..." Froots

Dumbles Folk Singaround at The Dumbles Pub, Westhorpe, Southwell, Nottinghamshire
"At the Dumbles Folk we welcome all musicians, singers, poets and listeners"

Marie Little at The Hungry Horse Acoustic Folk Club, The Rake (Pub/Restaurant), Rake Lane, Little Stanney, near Ellesmere Port, Cheshire
"Marie Little has been around the folk scene for many years and performs a wonderful range of songs from cotton and mining songs, music hall and country music and pop songs, Marie is a warm, funny, relaxed, down to earth singer with an amazing voice."

Joe Broughton & Kevin Dempsey at Alexanders Bar, Rufus Court, Chester, Cheshire
"These two virtuosi of guitar and fiddle like to do their own thing, when they're not earning their crusts in big bands, jazz-rock, pop and soul gigs and the likes of Whippersnapper and the Albion Band. Joe has been playing since he was in the pram and has a PhD in circus skills and mad banter. Kevin has been around a bit longer and has played a few more notes. Musically they're tighter than two coats of paint. Expect anything!"

Hannah James and Sam Sweeney at The Alma Inn, Derby Road, Melbourne, Derby
Recently nominated for the Horizon Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Hannah James and Sam Sweeney are clearly a duo on the rise. But they are no strangers to each other having performed together since their teens in the four-piece Kerfuffle.In 2009 they quickly cemented their reputation as rising stars with debut album “Catches and Glees”.
Hannah has a superb voice and is a step dancer in the award winning act The Demon Barber Roadshow. Sam plays fiddle and Northumbrian pipes and is a member of in Bellowhead. As a duo they have great energy and an infectious spontaneity.

Hans Theessink at The Black Swan Folk Club, York
Hans Theessink is hailed as "A master of the blues guitar", described by Bo Diddley as "one helluva guitar player" and by the US 'Blues Revue' as "An international blues treasure".

Gary Stewart at at Brudenell Social Club, Hyde Park, Leeds
Called 'Boy Cries Wolf', and released 13th Sept on iTunes, Bandcamp, & Amazon, features contributions from Ellen Smith of Ellen & The Escapades, India Patel, Rosie Doonan, Sam Lawrence of Wilful Missing, Ric Stephenson & Ed Dawson of The Avenues, Martyn Roper of Lovesick Cowboys, among others.

Jon Harvison at Fleetwood Folk Club, Fleetwood, Lancashire
"One of contemporary folk music’s finest exponents" Folk on Tap

Billy Mitchell & Bob Fox at Rothbury Roots, Rothbury, Northumberland
An amazing collaboration that needs no introduction, (This will be TICKET ONLY at £12 –See the venues website for details)

Sam Carter at The Fallen Angels Club, Glasgow
"Winner of 2010 bbc folk horizon award for best newcomer Sam Carter is a precocious young singer and guitarist from Rutland. Since moving to London in 2004 he has been busily honing his craft as a writer and performer. Sam has studied guitar with Martin Simpson and supported Bellowhead on their ‘Matachin’ album launch tour, which led Bellowhead lead singer Jon Boden to hail him as ‘the finest English-style finger-picking guitarist of his generation’."

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Friday 17th September 2010

Lil' Kitties at The Green Note, Camden, London
"Formally of the American oldtime band the Kittyhawks, Lucy Ray (mandolin) and Mo Jackson (clawhammer banjo), play both originals and many traditional oldtime songs from Appalachia. The special ingredients of Lucy’s dark, authentic American voice combined with Mo’s sweet haunting harmonies is as compelling as ever. Good ol’ mountain music, which will appeal to fans of ‘Oh Brother where art thou’."

Inu at The Village Pump Folk Club, Trowbridge, Wiltshire
"Inu's inventive mix of traditional and contemporary songs and tunes draws inspiration from the Celtic and Balkan traditions but is refreshingly different. Delicious tunes all played with flair that perfectly balances the darker songs and ballads." The Bath Chronicle

The Spikedrivers at The Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis, Dorset
'One of the most original, innovative and exciting bands around, their combination of gutsy slide guitar, rock-solid bass, infectious grooves and highly distinctive vocals, creates a sound that is uniquely their own. They take you on a journey, from southern juke-joints and lazy front porches to the huge open spaces of dust bowls and railroad tracks disappearing into the distance..... '

Rachel Harrington and Rod Clements at The West End Centre, Aldershot, Hampshire
“Compared favourably with Gillian Welch and the young Emmylou Harris, Seattle's Rachel Harrington is the rising star of Americana and keeping the ancient art of the musical storyteller alive. For her 2010 tour she is accompanied by master slide guitarist, Bert Jansch collaborator Lindisfarne founder member, Rod Clements."

Steve Tilston at The Ram Folk Club, Thames Ditton, Surrey
"...that very rare combination of singer, songwriter and guitarist who actually excels in all departments..." Froots

Richard Grainger at The Milkmaid Folk Club, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk
Singer Songwriter

Edwina Hayes at The Stables, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire

"Edwina Hayes is a singer/songwriter described by Nanci Griffith as “the sweetest voice in England”. She spends most of her time on the road performing her songs to an ever-increasing audience of fans and supporting major artists on tour, opening for Van Morrison, Nanci Griffith, Roger McGuinn, Jools Holland, Loudon Wainwright III, Daniel Beddingfield, KT Tunstall, Ruby Turner and Lulu. In 2008 she released her well received second album Pour Me A Drink and is currently making her third album Good Things Happen Over Coffee.
“Haunting honeyed solo songwriter.” The Guardian"

Phil Rosenthal at The Valley Folk Club, Pontardawe, West Glamorgan
"Phil Rosenthal is a nationally renowned singer, songwriter, recording artist and record producer. For many years the lead singer and guitarist in the popular bluegrass group The Seldom Scene, he is also highly respected for his instrumental skills on banjo and mandolin."

Hickman and Quinn at The Woodman Folk Club, Kingswinford, West Midlands
"Hickman and Quinn are a folk and roots duo who play original and traditional songs and instrumentals. James Hickman and Chris Quinn share lead and back up roles on guitar and vocals as they play their exciting array of material that draws its influences from Britain, Ireland and America."

Joe Broughton & Kevin Dempsey at The Dog & Partridge, Palmerston St, Bollington, Macclesfield, Cheshire
"These two virtuosi of guitar and fiddle like to do their own thing, when they're not earning their crusts in big bands, jazz-rock, pop and soul gigs and the likes of Whippersnapper and the Albion Band. Joe has been playing since he was in the pram and has a PhD in circus skills and mad banter. Kevin has been around a bit longer and has played a few more notes. Musically they're tighter than two coats of paint. Expect anything!"

Marie Little at Leigh Folk Club, Conservative Club, Railway Road, Leigh, Lancashire
"Most singers feel it important to include a high measure of 'topical' songs that show some social conscience. This has always been the case with singers like Marie, and yet it is obvious to her that entertainment is the name of the game. Hence her repertoire of songs veers through cotton songs, mining songs, music hall, country and pop songs, and judging by her popularity it is a winning combination, yet she manages to stamp her style on each song with ease" Jez Lowe

Hannah James and Sam Sweeney at The Frazer Theatre, Knaresborough, North Yorkshire
Recently nominated for the Horizon Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Hannah James and Sam Sweeney are clearly a duo on the rise. But they are no strangers to each other having performed together since their teens in the four-piece Kerfuffle.In 2009 they quickly cemented their reputation as rising stars with debut album “Catches and Glees”.
Hannah has a superb voice and is a step dancer in the award winning act The Demon Barber Roadshow. Sam plays fiddle and Northumbrian pipes and is a member of in Bellowhead. As a duo they have great energy and an infectious spontaneity.

Megson at The Victoria Hall, Settle, North Yorkshire
“This is first rate - if you don’t like this music you have a problem! Megson are a couple of potential stars, peaches and cream harmonies, melodic roots consciousness and a huge sense of individuality. ” fRoots

Chris While and Julie Matthews at Carlisle Folk and Blues Club, Carlisle, Cumbria
"Internationally acclaimed, Chris & Julie continue to be a leading force on the UK's acoustic/roots arts circuit. Their songs cover life as they see it, from the industrial waste lands of the north, to injustice and freedom, matters of the heart and everything in between. Chris and Julie have nine duo albums and a songbook to their credit as well as six solo albums between them, a Blue Tapestry album and five St Agnes Fountain CDs. "

Singers Night at The Rolling Hills Folk Club, Melrose, Scottish Borders

Sam Carter at The Blue Lamp, Aberdeen
"Winner of 2010 bbc folk horizon award for best newcomer Sam Carter is a precocious young singer and guitarist from Rutland. Since moving to London in 2004 he has been busily honing his craft as a writer and performer. Sam has studied guitar with Martin Simpson and supported Bellowhead on their ‘Matachin’ album launch tour, which led Bellowhead lead singer Jon Boden to hail him as ‘the finest English-style finger-picking guitarist of his generation’."

Moishe's Bagel at Birnam Institute, Birnam, Perth and Kinross
Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk music with the excitement and soul of improvisation. Enjoy a concert of thrillingly original cutting-edge klezmer and folk music from some of Scotland’s finest musicians. An intoxicating, life-affirming mix of Eastern European dance music, Middle Eastern rhythms and virtuoso performances.
‘Exhilarating, full-flavoured stuff, often breath-takingly intricate but played with jubilation...the Bagel acquires the momentum of an express train’ The Herald

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Saturday 18th September 2010

Little Johnny England at The David Hall, South Petherton, Somerset
"Little Johnny England is a unit comprising five musicians, all of whom have worked within the folk/traditional and mainstream for many years. Their aim in the last 10 years has been to take traditional and contemporary folk music to a wider audience."

No Fixed Abode at The Rest and Be Thankful, Wheddon Cross, Somerset
"No Fixed Abode are a blend of Una Walsh (vocals) and Tony Dean (guitar). Una originates in Ireland and has a voice as rich and smooth as the finest Irish malt whiskey. Tony’s guitar playing provides the ice. Together they invite you to sit back relax and enjoy Their mix of original acoustic songs blended together in a unique way that will take you on a magical mystery tour of your emotions."

Rachel Harrington and Rod Clements at The Arts Centre, Bath, Somerset
“Compared favourably with Gillian Welch and the young Emmylou Harris, Seattle's Rachel Harrington is the rising star of Americana and keeping the ancient art of the musical storyteller alive. For her 2010 tour she is accompanied by master slide guitarist, Bert Jansch collaborator Lindisfarne founder member, Rod Clements."

Lil' Kitties at The Jolly Anglers 314 Kennetside, Reading, Berkshire
"Formally of the American oldtime band the Kittyhawks, Lucy Ray (mandolin) and Mo Jackson (clawhammer banjo), play both originals and many traditional oldtime songs from Appalachia. The special ingredients of Lucy’s dark, authentic American voice combined with Mo’s sweet haunting harmonies is as compelling as ever. Good ol’ mountain music, which will appeal to fans of ‘Oh Brother where art thou’."

Phil Rosenthal at The Hafod Hotel, Devil's Bridge, Aberystwyth
"Phil Rosenthal is a nationally renowned singer, songwriter, recording artist and record producer. For many years the lead singer and guitarist in the popular bluegrass group The Seldom Scene, he is also highly respected for his instrumental skills on banjo and mandolin."

WaterAid Ceilidh, Great Barr, Birmingham
“Have a great night out, dance your socks off, and raise money for WaterAid "

Drew Nelson at The Queen’s Head, Belper, Derbyshire
"Drew Nelson is one of my favorite new artists. He is an excellent guitarist as well as an accomplished songwriter. His songs sound like the rest of us feel. Drew's characters are anything but defeated. They are dazed,angry, amazed and climbing." -John Gorka

Reg Meuross at Wortley Folk Club, Wortley, Sheffield
'One of Britains finest Singer/Songwriters' - Time Out Magazine.
'There's something special about the way he writes and delivers a song' - Townes Van Zandt

The Tom McConville Band at The Davy Lamp Folk Club, Washington, Tyne and Wear
"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

Moishe's Bagel at Brunton Theatre, Musselburgh , Edinburgh
Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk music with the excitement and soul of improvisation. Enjoy a concert of thrillingly original cutting-edge klezmer and folk music from some of Scotland’s finest musicians. An intoxicating, life-affirming mix of Eastern European dance music, Middle Eastern rhythms and virtuoso performances.
‘Exhilarating, full-flavoured stuff, often breath-takingly intricate but played with jubilation...the Bagel acquires the momentum of an express train’ The Herald

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Sunday 19th September 2010

Robb Johnson at Walthamstow Folk Club, Walthamstow, East London
"Widely regarded as one of the best songwriters working in this country at the moment, Robb's songs run from rabble rousing anthems to deeply personal reflections on love, death and politics"

Brother Mule at Twickfolk, Twickenham, West London
'Brother Mule in concert is a musical conversation between three of America’s most gifted acoustic musicians. The bandmates share the spotlight in a three-ringed circus of extraordinary talent and variety. Brian Wicklund ignites the stage with his fiery fiddling, Ben Winship plays tasty mandolin as he croons one of his finely crafted songs, while Eric Thorin pushes the boundaries of bass playing as an extreme sport.'

Singers/Musicians Night at Wheal Dream Folk, Wendron, Nr. Helston, Cornwall
There is a warm welcome for all singers and musicians. Or, just come along and enjoy the best Folk Music in West Cornwall

Miranda Sykes and Rex Preston at Topsham Folk Club, Topsham, Devon
'Miranda has been described as a ‘musical chameleon’ reflecting the way that she so easily slips between musical genres as diverse as folk, jazz and rock / pop. She continues to build a solo repertoire of contemporary and narrative songs that are showcased to critical acclaim on her recent album “Bliss”.'

No Fixed Abode at The Bottom Ship, Porlock Weir, Somerset 2:00pm
"No Fixed Abode are a blend of Una Walsh (vocals) and Tony Dean (guitar). Una originates in Ireland and has a voice as rich and smooth as the finest Irish malt whiskey. Tony’s guitar playing provides the ice. Together they invite you to sit back relax and enjoy Their mix of original acoustic songs blended together in a unique way that will take you on a magical mystery tour of your emotions."

Rachel Harrington and Rod Clements at The American Museum, Bath, Somerset 2:00pm
“Compared favourably with Gillian Welch and the young Emmylou Harris, Seattle's Rachel Harrington is the rising star of Americana and keeping the ancient art of the musical storyteller alive. For her 2010 tour she is accompanied by master slide guitarist, Bert Jansch collaborator Lindisfarne founder member, Rod Clements."

The Askew Sisters at Horsham Folk Club, Horsham, Sussex
"Emily and Hazel Askew are a young duo making waves on the folk scene with their energetic brand of English folk music. Using fiddle and melodeon, they play and sing with an infectious enjoyment and love for the music, winning them fans wherever they go. From rhythmic foot stomping tunes to powerful interpretations of songs and ballads, their playing always guarantees to engage and inspire those who hear."

The Curst Sons at Fiery Foods Festival, Victoria Gardens, Brighton 4:00pm
The Curst Sons - Inspired by American traditional music with an added shot of urban grit and dose of wry humour the Sons powerful rootsy songs combine Old Time, Hillbilly and Hellfire Gospel. The powerful stripped down live shows are a wonder to behold.

Johnny Dickinson at Hitchin Folk Club, Hitchin, Hertfordshire
"I'd go a long way to listen to Johnny Dickinson. You hear a lot of good influences in his music but the result is something special. For me his playing really hits the spot." John Renbourn

Malinky at The Forest Folk Club, Miners Arms, Whitecroft, near Lydney, Gloucestershire
Scotland’s finest folk song quintet, who combines the very best of tradition and contemporary, hard earned experience and revitalised modernity. "One of the best bands of 2009"-- Guardian

James Hollingsworth at The Queens Head Inn, St. James Street, Monmouth, Monmouthshire
"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

Flaxenby at Rattlingfolk, The Horseshoe Inn, The Bridges, Rattlinghope, Shropshire
Flaxenby provide a timeless, contemporary tilt on folk...The lyrical quality of the songwriting portrays an edgy, graceful energy, interwoven with experienced musical skill that creates that Flaxenby sound...
Sam McLeod blends her folk, rock and jazz influences with a bluesy depth with instinctive, vocal versitility. Chris Buttery's earthy vocals and americana influenced songwriting has stood him in good stead in the past as a founder member of Bill Caddick's 'Jackfield Riverbillies'. Andy Jones's perfect expression on the fiddle complements with soft celtic undertones.

Tom McConville and David Newey at Bothy Folk Club, Southport, Merseyside
"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.

Simon Kempston at The Hole Note Acoustic Club, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire
Singer Songwriter

The Carnival Band at Helperby Millennium Hall, Helperby, Nr Thirsk, North Yorkshire
"The Carnival Band - 5 Musical Explorers, 5 voices, 25 instruments, 5 dozen styles of music and 5 hundred fresh ideas for music-making, combining music from across the centuries with sounds from around the world in an irreverently joyous mix!"

Sam Carter at The Gala Theatre, Durham
"Winner of 2010 bbc folk horizon award for best newcomer Sam Carter is a precocious young singer and guitarist from Rutland. Since moving to London in 2004 he has been busily honing his craft as a writer and performer. Sam has studied guitar with Martin Simpson and supported Bellowhead on their ‘Matachin’ album launch tour, which led Bellowhead lead singer Jon Boden to hail him as ‘the finest English-style finger-picking guitarist of his generation’."

Moishe's Bagel at The Old Laundry Theatre, Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere, Cumbria
Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk music with the excitement and soul of improvisation. Enjoy a concert of thrillingly original cutting-edge klezmer and folk music from some of Scotland’s finest musicians. An intoxicating, life-affirming mix of Eastern European dance music, Middle Eastern rhythms and virtuoso performances.
‘Exhilarating, full-flavoured stuff, often breath-takingly intricate but played with jubilation...the Bagel acquires the momentum of an express train’ The Herald

Drew Nelson at Sunday Session @ The Argyll Arms, 27 Watergate, Rothesay, Isle of Bute
"Drew Nelson is one of my favorite new artists. He is an excellent guitarist as well as an accomplished songwriter. His songs sound like the rest of us feel. Drew's characters are anything but defeated. They are dazed,angry, amazed and climbing." -John Gorka

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Monday 20th September 2010

Darren Black and Louise Jordan at MondayMonday, The Green Note, Camden, London
"Darren Black is a musician with a rapidly growing profile on the folk/acoustic scene. Described by Rock 'n' Reel magazine as 'a name to note', he hails from a quiet corner of the Welsh valleys and carries a heart-felt honesty in his music. Originally a classical violinist, he later taught himself guitar and folk fiddle. Inspired by bands such as Led Zeppelin and the poignant, melodic lyricism of Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell, musing soon progressed to song-writing. Several spells in underground indie/folk bands got the Jimmy Page out of his system, but ultimately served only to lure him back to his acoustic roots."
"Louise Jordan is a young folk singer who provides an enchanting twist on the traditional British folk song. Louise has an “individual approach to traditional songs, firmly keeping alive the spirit and beauty of each, whilst adding her own personality and fresh interpretation.” (Dennis Homes) Having lived, worked and studied in Wiltshire, Birmingham, London and Essex, Louise draws on her varied experience to tell songs of love, loss and betrayal with a “beautiful sweet rippling voice and delicate guitar style.” (Havering Folk Club)
As a performer Louise has an enormous capacity to empathise and immerses herself in a story as if it were her own."

Singers & Musicians Nights at Croydon Folk Club, Croydon, Surrey
"No need to book just come along to sing and play! £3"

Crayside Folk Club, at The Seven Stars, Foots Cray High Street, Sidcup, Kent
Informal Session/Singaround

Hans Theessink at Colchester Folk Club, Colchester, Essex
Hans Theessink is hailed as "A master of the blues guitar", described by Bo Diddley as "one helluva guitar player" and by the US 'Blues Revue' as "An international blues treasure".

Feature Night with Hamish Currie at The Tudor Folk Club, Chesham, Buckinghamshire

Haconby Hare Traditional Music Sessions, at The Hare & Hounds pub, 2 West Road, Main St, Haconby, Bourne, Lincolnshire
"These are cracking evenings of traditional music - mainly english polkas, jigs, reels, hornpipes and waltzes, played on acoustic-only instruments, typically fiddles, melodeons, guitars, flutes, bodhrans and even the odd hammered dulcimer and double bass."

Mike Nicholson at The Vernon Arms Folk Club, 21 Locko Rd, Spondon. Derby
"Those who have heard Mike Nicholson sing will not need me to tell them what a delightful experience that is. When Mike sings a song it stays sung - and you won't forget it" Bob Copper, Copper Family

Moishe's Bagel at The Cumberland Arms, Newcastle Upon Tyne
Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk music with the excitement and soul of improvisation. Enjoy a concert of thrillingly original cutting-edge klezmer and folk music from some of Scotland’s finest musicians. An intoxicating, life-affirming mix of Eastern European dance music, Middle Eastern rhythms and virtuoso performances.
‘Exhilarating, full-flavoured stuff, often breath-takingly intricate but played with jubilation...the Bagel acquires the momentum of an express train’ The Herald

Drew Nelson at The Coffee Shop, Strathpeffer Cromarty Buildings, Strathpeffer, Ross and Cromarty
"Drew Nelson is one of my favorite new artists. He is an excellent guitarist as well as an accomplished songwriter. His songs sound like the rest of us feel. Drew's characters are anything but defeated. They are dazed,angry, amazed and climbing." -John Gorka

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Tuesday 21st September 2010

Sarah McQuaid at The Cellars, 56 Cromwell Road, Eastney, Hampshire
"Renowned for her warm, engaging stage presence, Sarah McQuaid is a versatile and beguiling performer. In addition to her own elegantly crafted originals, she interprets traditional Irish and Appalachian folk songs, Elizabethan ballads, 1930s jazz numbers, surprise covers and lively guitar instrumentals with panache and poignance."

The Grassroots Band & Friends at The Eight Bells, Hawkhurst, Near Tunbridge, Kent (Singers and musicians welcome)
"Formed in 1973, the band have a long and exciting CV working both in the UK and abroad, even journeying to the US in the late 1970s where they had the privilege of sharing a stage with the "father of bluegrass", legendary mandolin player Bill Monroe! Featuring guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle and double bass, complete with stunning trademark vocal harmonies, the band have spent a collective lifetime bringing bluegrass to new audiences by way of their highly entertaining and accessible live act."

Hans Theessink at Dartford Folk Club, Dartford, Kent
Blues Guitarist

Martin Carthy and Dave Swarbrickat Great Knight Folk Club, Northampton
"Two legends of the folk world touring touring together" Contact the club for ticket details

Moishe's Bagel at Ludlow Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, Shropshire
Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk music with the excitement and soul of improvisation. Enjoy a concert of thrillingly original cutting-edge klezmer and folk music from some of Scotland’s finest musicians. An intoxicating, life-affirming mix of Eastern European dance music, Middle Eastern rhythms and virtuoso performances.
‘Exhilarating, full-flavoured stuff, often breath-takingly intricate but played with jubilation...the Bagel acquires the momentum of an express train’ The Herald

Open Mic at The Vernon Arms Folk Club, 21 Locko Rd, Spondon. Derby

Pete Coe at Belper Folk Club, Belper, Derbyshire
"Nowhere do you find all the threads of song, dance, musician, caller & organiser woven together in such a rich tapestry." Living Tradition

Jackie Oates at The Musician, Leicester
"Jackie Oates is a singer and fiddle player hailing from Staffordshire. Her unique treatment of English ballads and songs, and pure, haunting singing style has attracted increasing attention. "

Feature night with Dick Pike and floor spots at The Brown Cow Folk Club, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
"All Welcome"

No Fixed Abode at The Junction Inn, Otley, West Yorkshire
"No Fixed Abode are a blend of Una Walsh (vocals) and Tony Dean (guitar). Una originates in Ireland and has a voice as rich and smooth as the finest Irish malt whiskey. Tony’s guitar playing provides the ice. Together they invite you to sit back relax and enjoy Their mix of original acoustic songs blended together in a unique way that will take you on a magical mystery tour of your emotions."

Singers Night at Cramlington Folk Club, Dewley, Cramlington, Northumberland

Drew Nelson at Leith Folk Club, Edinburgh
"Drew Nelson is one of my favorite new artists. He is an excellent guitarist as well as an accomplished songwriter. His songs sound like the rest of us feel. Drew's characters are anything but defeated. They are dazed,angry, amazed and climbing." -John Gorka

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Wednesday 22nd September 2010

Ron Trueman-Border at Folk Mob, Blackheath, South East London
"Ron Trueman-Border has gained an enviable reputation as one of the folk and acoustic scene's most popular singer/songwriters"

Andy Irvine at The Future Inn, Bristol
"Andy Irvine has been hailed as "a tradition in himself." Musician, singer and songwriter, Andy has maintained both personal integrity and highly individual performing skills throughout his 40-year career. From Sweeney's Men in the mid sixties to the enormous success of Planxty in the 70s, to THE Irish super group, Patrick Street, in the 80s, Andy has been a world music pioneer and icon for traditional music and musicians."

Stompin' Dave at The Dolphin, St Denys, Hampshire
"Stompin' Dave Allen performs American roots music on guitar, five-string banjo, fiddle, piano, harmonica, vocals & tap dancing. Dave specializes in American roots music: old-time, bluegrass, blues, country blues, folk, vintage country & hillbilly. Traditional songs & tunes, originals & covers."

Sam Carter at The School Creative Centre, New Road,Rye, East Sussex
Armed with a ‘killer voice’ (according to MOBO Award-winning Nitin Sawhney) and the ability to play his guitar ‘like a harp’ (Time Out), as well as an unerring ability to put his personal experiences into a wider perspective, the east London-based songsmith Sam Carter has already had an amazing year after winning Best Newcomer at the BBC Folk Awards in February. Since then he has continued to impress and inspire, receiving adulation from audiences and fellow artists alike.

Rachel Harrington and Rod Clements at The Iron Works, Oswestry, Shropshire
“Compared favourably with Gillian Welch and the young Emmylou Harris, Seattle's Rachel Harrington is the rising star of Americana and keeping the ancient art of the musical storyteller alive. For her 2010 tour she is accompanied by master slide guitarist, Bert Jansch collaborator Lindisfarne founder member, Rod Clements."

No Fixed Abode at The Swan Inn, Stone, Staffordshire
"No Fixed Abode are a blend of Una Walsh (vocals) and Tony Dean (guitar). Una originates in Ireland and has a voice as rich and smooth as the finest Irish malt whiskey. Tony’s guitar playing provides the ice. Together they invite you to sit back relax and enjoy Their mix of original acoustic songs blended together in a unique way that will take you on a magical mystery tour of your emotions."

Steve Tilston at The Musician, Leicester
"...that very rare combination of singer, songwriter and guitarist who actually excels in all departments..." Froots

Carrie Rodriguez at Chads Theatre, Cheadle Hulme, Greater Manchester
"Carrie Rodriguez new album, Love & Circumstance was released in April. It was produced by Lee Townsend (Bill Frisell, Loudon Wainwright III, etc) and is a great collection of songs written by the likes of Buddy & Julie Miller, John Hiatt/Ry Cooder/Nick Lowe/Jim Keltner (aka Little Village), David Rodriguez (her Dad), M. Ward, Lucinda Williams; Richard Thompson, Sandrine, Gillian Welch & Dave Rawlings; Bonnie Owens & Merle Haggard, Townes van Zandt, Hank Williams, & Sosa Tomas Mendez (a song her Great Aunt, Ava Garza sang). It was recorded with her world-class touring band: Hans Holzen (guitars), Kyle Kegerreis (bass), and Eric Platz (drums). Special guests joining in on the recording include Bill Frisell, Buddy Miller, Greg Leisz, and Aoife O'Donovan."

Moishe's Bagel at The Grand, Clitheroe, Lancashire
Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk music with the excitement and soul of improvisation. Enjoy a concert of thrillingly original cutting-edge klezmer and folk music from some of Scotland’s finest musicians. An intoxicating, life-affirming mix of Eastern European dance music, Middle Eastern rhythms and virtuoso performances.
‘Exhilarating, full-flavoured stuff, often breath-takingly intricate but played with jubilation...the Bagel acquires the momentum of an express train’ The Herald

Clydebuilt at Dunfermline Folk Club, Dunfermline, Fife
"5 piece band from Clydeside with songs about West Coast life"

Tom McConville at Edinburgh Folk Club, Edinburgh
"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.

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Thursday 23rd September 2010

Moishe's Bagel at The Lexington, Islington, London
Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk music with the excitement and soul of improvisation. Enjoy a concert of thrillingly original cutting-edge klezmer and folk music from some of Scotland’s finest musicians. An intoxicating, life-affirming mix of Eastern European dance music, Middle Eastern rhythms and virtuoso performances.
‘Exhilarating, full-flavoured stuff, often breath-takingly intricate but played with jubilation...the Bagel acquires the momentum of an express train’ The Herald

John Kirkpatrick at Islington Folk Club, Clerkenwell, London
Accordion, concertina and melodeon player and singer of songs... and Musician of the Year in the 2010 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards!

James Hollingsworth at The Royal Seven Stars Hotel, The Plains, Totnes, Devon
"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

Steve Tilston at St Georges, Bristol
"...that very rare combination of singer, songwriter and guitarist who actually excels in all departments..." Froots

Issy and David Emeney with Kate Riaz at The Sunray Folk Club, Broadmayne Village Hall, Dorchester, Dorset
"Issy & David are great - I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone who loves quality folk music" Vin Garbutt

The Old Dance School at Bournemouth Folk Club, Bournemouth, Dorset
'Seven of the exciting young folk scene's finest musicians bring a virtuosity and vitality to newhorizons, blistering tunes, evocative textures and songs vivid withinspiration from their adventures across the richness of British landscape.'

Geoff Higginbottom at Orpington Folk Club, Orpington, Kent
"Geoff plays six-string and 12-string guitars, Appalachian dulcimer and bodhran. His repertoire includes traditional and modern songs on a wide range of topics plus a few lively shanties and irresistible chorus-singing opportunities."

Fran McGillivray and Mike Burke at The Poacher, Roots, Blues and Jazz evening, Hartlake Road, Tudeley, Tonbridge, Kent
Vibrant original songs complemented by soulful, dynamic and powerful interpretations of blues, and British and American folk songs.
“A gritty combination of acoustic blues, country, folk and Celtic influences” Rock ‘n’ Reel Magazine

Uiscedwr at The Stables, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire

"Phenomenal folk trio Uiscedwr (pronounced “ish-ka-dooer”) are one of Britain’s most exciting contemporary bands. Featuring Anna Esslemont on fiddle and vocals, with guitar and six-string bass wizard Nick Waldock and Cormac Byrne (of Seth Lakeman Band fame) on bodhran and percussion, this is the most thrilling modern folk music you’re ever likely to hear. Fatter, funkier and folkier than ever before, their eclectic repertoire is tempered by a dash of Latin, jazz, blues and klezmer."

Lucy Bunce at The Acoustic Cafe, Arrington, Cambridgeshire

Fiddlers Bid at Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, Norfolk
“The musical tornado” known as Fiddlers’ Bid are internationally respected as Leading exponents of Shetland’s rich fiddle tradition. Their music is created through a distinctive bond of seven formidable musicians."

Singaround at The Tump Folk Club, Coombe Social Club, Brinklow Road, Coventry, West Midlands

Tales and Ales Storytelling Session, 157 Barford Street, Birmingham
“Share stories in one of Birmingham's finest real ale pubs"

Drew Nelson at Crewe Roots @ The Horseshoe, Crewe, Cheshire
"Drew Nelson is one of my favorite new artists. He is an excellent guitarist as well as an accomplished songwriter. His songs sound like the rest of us feel. Drew's characters are anything but defeated. They are dazed,angry, amazed and climbing." -John Gorka

Hannah James and Sam Sweeney at The Barn, Baston, Lincolnshire
Recently nominated for the Horizon Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Hannah James and Sam Sweeney are clearly a duo on the rise. But they are no strangers to each other having performed together since their teens in the four-piece Kerfuffle.In 2009 they quickly cemented their reputation as rising stars with debut album “Catches and Glees”.
Hannah has a superb voice and is a step dancer in the award winning act The Demon Barber Roadshow. Sam plays fiddle and Northumbrian pipes and is a member of in Bellowhead. As a duo they have great energy and an infectious spontaneity.

Cool Acoustics presents Leeds Womens Aid III at the Royal Park Cellars, Hyde Park, Leeds
5 act music fundraiser for a charity for female victims of Domestic Violence,
with Oui Bee, David Henshaw, Hannah Trigwell, Amelia Orgill, & Pippa Lloyd.

Sarah McQuaid at The Topic Folk Club, Bradford
"Renowned for her warm, engaging stage presence, Sarah McQuaid is a versatile and beguiling performer. In addition to her own elegantly crafted originals, she interprets traditional Irish and Appalachian folk songs, Elizabethan ballads, 1930s jazz numbers, surprise covers and lively guitar instrumentals with panache and poignance."

Singers Night at Crail Folk Club, Crail, Fife

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Friday 24th September 2010

Plastikes Karekles at The Green Note, Camden, London
"Greek traditional music and classical fusion will have you meandering through the searching improvisations of Asia Minor's modal music to the barn stomping rhythms of the Greek Rebetes!!!"

Steve Tilston at Calstock Hall, Calstock, Cornwall
"...that very rare combination of singer, songwriter and guitarist who actually excels in all departments..." Froots

Hannah James and Sam Sweeney at Nailsea Folk Club, Nailsea, Somerset
Recently nominated for the Horizon Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Hannah James and Sam Sweeney are clearly a duo on the rise. But they are no strangers to each other having performed together since their teens in the four-piece Kerfuffle.In 2009 they quickly cemented their reputation as rising stars with debut album “Catches and Glees”.
Hannah has a superb voice and is a step dancer in the award winning act The Demon Barber Roadshow. Sam plays fiddle and Northumbrian pipes and is a member of in Bellowhead. As a duo they have great energy and an infectious spontaneity.

Bob Brozman at Colston Hall, Bristol
'Redefining musical diversity worldwide, Bob Brozman is a remarkably prolific artist whose wit, energy, and musical technique combine powerfully to create an unforgettable live performance. A master of slide, fingerstyle, and percussive guitar, Bob's exhilarating show spans the global and musical spectrum, and keeps audiences enthralled, begging for more of his endearing, infectious energy.'

Jody Kruskal at Swindon Folk Singers Club, Swindon, Wiltshire
"American singer and concertina player"

John Tams and Barry Coope at Village Pump Friday Folk Club, Trowbridge, Wiltshire
'John Tams is best known for his work at the National Theatre and on TV as an actor, songwriter and musician, as well as with the Albion Band and others. Barry is a masterful keyboard player and singer. Together their spine tingling music is rich, diverse, contemporary and utterly compelling.'

James Hollingsworth at The Square and Compass, Worth Matravers, Swanage, 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

Mary Jane at The Hobbit, Bevois Valley, Southampton, Hampshire
"MARY JANE play a highly original blend of acoustic & electric psychedelic folk-rock."

Andy Irvine at The Ram Folk Club, Thames Ditton, Surrey
"One of Ireland's finest - a true legend who 'never tires of the road' - ANDY is a solo artist in the old style, a teller of stories and maker of music who continues to follow in the footsteps of his hero Woody Guthrie as he travels the globe. His mandola & bouzouki playing is dazzlingly good and his pedigree is longer than an ol' freight train (Planxty, Paul Brady, De Dannan and currently Mozaic & Patrick Street). Andy’s solo show features Irish traditional songs, ballads, tunes from Europe and America and many original songs in his own unique style. And after more than a decade he has finished a splendid new solo CD, ‘Abocurragh’, produced by Dónal Lunny! Jump aboard and hitch a ride with this mesmerising performer."

BarronBrady at Seaford Folk Club, Seaford, Sussex
"Two performers who confidently uphold the richness of the British folk tradition with superbly crafted self-written songs and fine interpretations of English folk song, beautifully sung with great sincerity and with impeccable musical accompaniment. Their beguiling lyrics often draw upon the stories, legends and folklore of the South-West."

La Mére Folle at The Milkmaid Folk Club, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk
French Traditional Quartet

Phil Drane at Waveney Folk Club, Crown Street Hall, Factory St Entrance, Lowestoft, Suffolk
"Eclectic repertoire of songs, uniquely arranged; smooth vocals underpinned by subtle finger-style guitar work reminiscent of the very best in that genre - Nic Jones and Bob Fox." .... Dave Goulder, Rosedale Folk Club, Scotland.

Uiscedwr at The Cornerstone Arts Centre, Didcot, Oxfordshire
“Uiscedwr (pronounced "ish-ka-dooer") is a trio which plays British folk music influenced by world music. The group was originally based in Manchester and went on to win the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award in 2002.
Their first album gained them a nomination for the Horizon Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards in 2005. By this time, Uiscedwr was mixing British folk music with a strong Celtic bias with other influences including jazz, European folk and world musics."

Kevin Dempsey and Joe Broughton at The Woodman Folk Club, Kingswinford, West Midlands
"Kevin Dempsey and Joe Broughton have been playing together since 2000. Following the success of their first two albums "Every Other World" and "Freehand" they are currently working on their third album due to be released summer 2009. Kevin and Joe have toured together extensively in Italy, Holland, Belgium, France, Germany, Austria and USA as well as in the UK."

The Askew Sisters at Cheltenham Folk Club, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
"Emily and Hazel Askew are a young duo making waves on the folk scene with their energetic brand of English folk music. Using fiddle and melodeon, they play and sing with an infectious enjoyment and love for the music, winning them fans wherever they go. From rhythmic foot stomping tunes to powerful interpretations of songs and ballads, their playing always guarantees to engage and inspire those who hear."

Matt Andersen at The Flying Club Cafe Bar, Rhoose, Barry, South Glamorgan
"Canada`s greatest guitarist made one guitar sound like a fully staffed band.Outrageous skill and contagious joy."The Times.

Moishe's Bagel at The Town Hall, High St, Wem, Shropshire
Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk music with the excitement and soul of improvisation. Enjoy a concert of thrillingly original cutting-edge klezmer and folk music from some of Scotland’s finest musicians. An intoxicating, life-affirming mix of Eastern European dance music, Middle Eastern rhythms and virtuoso performances.
‘Exhilarating, full-flavoured stuff, often breath-takingly intricate but played with jubilation...the Bagel acquires the momentum of an express train’ The Herald

Steve Turner at Gainsborough Folk Club, Gainsborough, Lincolnshire
"A shining example of the music the British folk scene is capable of producing."
FRoots

Drew Nelson at The Ropewalk, Barton upon Humber, Lincolnshire
"Drew Nelson is one of my favorite new artists. He is an excellent guitarist as well as an accomplished songwriter. His songs sound like the rest of us feel. Drew's characters are anything but defeated. They are dazed,angry, amazed and climbing." -John Gorka

Fiddlers Bid at The Lakeside Theatre, Nottingham
“The musical tornado” known as Fiddlers’ Bid are internationally respected as Leading exponents of Shetland’s rich fiddle tradition. Their music is created through a distinctive bond of seven formidable musicians."

No Fixed Abode at The Dovecote Inn, Laxton, Nottinghamshire
"No Fixed Abode are a blend of Una Walsh (vocals) and Tony Dean (guitar). Una originates in Ireland and has a voice as rich and smooth as the finest Irish malt whiskey. Tony’s guitar playing provides the ice. Together they invite you to sit back relax and enjoy Their mix of original acoustic songs blended together in a unique way that will take you on a magical mystery tour of your emotions."

Carrie Rodriguez at The Musician, Leicester
Texan Americana Fiddler and Singer

Tommy R Jones at Last Friday Folk Club, The Venue, Samuel Fox Suite, 650 Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, Sheffield
"Multi-instrumentalist, Tommy R Jones is just as comfortable performing with his trusty guitar or taking on something entirely different with his piano. He's a sensitive storyteller, influenced by artists from Neil Young to ACDC. Tommy usually takes to the stage with rock group, Stonerun as lead vocalist, but tonight we get him all to ourselves."

Sarah McQuaid at Partick Folk Club, Glasgow
"Renowned for her warm, engaging stage presence, Sarah McQuaid is a versatile and beguiling performer. In addition to her own elegantly crafted originals, she interprets traditional Irish and Appalachian folk songs, Elizabethan ballads, 1930s jazz numbers, surprise covers and lively guitar instrumentals with panache and poignance."

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Saturday 25th September 2010

Keith Pearson’s Coup de Grass at Green Note, Camden, London
"The music, ranging from fast, dazzling banjo and harmonica solos to poignant ballads of exceptional beauty, is an exciting mixture of all that is great in Bluegrass and in Folk."

Brian Peters at The Cellar Upstairs Folk Club, Euston, London
"Traditional songs and music from England with squeezeboxes and guitar"

Andy Irvine at The Irish Cultural Centre, Hammersmith, West London
"Andy Irvine has been hailed as "a tradition in himself." Musician, singer and songwriter, Andy has maintained both personal integrity and highly individual performing skills throughout his 40-year career. From Sweeney's Men in the mid sixties to the enormous success of Planxty in the 70s, to THE Irish super group, Patrick Street, in the 80s, Andy has been a world music pioneer and icon for traditional music and musicians."

Bob Brozman at The Phoenix, Exeter, Devon
'Redefining musical diversity worldwide, Bob Brozman is a remarkably prolific artist whose wit, energy, and musical technique combine powerfully to create an unforgettable live performance. A master of slide, fingerstyle, and percussive guitar, Bob's exhilarating show spans the global and musical spectrum, and keeps audiences enthralled, begging for more of his endearing, infectious energy.'

Bag of Rats at Stoke Club, 12-14 High Street, Stoke Sub Hamdon, Somerset
"A rich brew of traditional English tea, blues, reds, Irish, Jazz and Country; a smidgeon of pigeon Ska, a hint of alternative and a peppering of psychedelic skiffle."

Reg Meuross at Oake & District Hall, Saxon Close, Oake, Somerset
'One of Britains finest Singer/Songwriters' - Time Out Magazine.
'There's something special about the way he writes and delivers a song' - Townes Van Zandt

Moishe's Bagel at The Anvil, Basingstoke, Hampshire
Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk music with the excitement and soul of improvisation. Enjoy a concert of thrillingly original cutting-edge klezmer and folk music from some of Scotland’s finest musicians. An intoxicating, life-affirming mix of Eastern European dance music, Middle Eastern rhythms and virtuoso performances.
‘Exhilarating, full-flavoured stuff, often breath-takingly intricate but played with jubilation...the Bagel acquires the momentum of an express train’ The Herald

The Curst Sons at The Seal, Selsey, West Sussex
The Curst Sons - Inspired by American traditional music with an added shot of urban grit and dose of wry humour the Sons powerful rootsy songs combine Old Time, Hillbilly and Hellfire Gospel. The powerful stripped down live shows are a wonder to behold.

Contra Dances & Workshops in Ashford, Kent
Funky American Style Barn Dancing for the 21st Century with fantastic, live music from the USA and the UK.There is a free introductory workshop to get you started, and then the caller walks through the figures before each dance, so that anyone can join in easily.
Come and join the fun!
2:00pm to 5:00pm: Workshops with John & Karen Sweeney - Contra styling, swinging, contra waltz
7:30pm to 8:00pm: Free introductory contra dance workshop for beginners
8:00pm to 11:00pm: Contra dance

Sam Carter and Megson at The Junction, Cambridge
"Winner of 2010 bbc folk horizon award for best newcomer Sam Carter is a precocious young singer and guitarist from Rutland. Since moving to London in 2004 he has been busily honing his craft as a writer and performer. Sam has studied guitar with Martin Simpson and supported Bellowhead on their ‘Matachin’ album launch tour, which led Bellowhead lead singer Jon Boden to hail him as ‘the finest English-style finger-picking guitarist of his generation’."
“This is first rate - if you don’t like this music you have a problem! Megson are a couple of potential stars, peaches and cream harmonies, melodic roots consciousness and a huge sense of individuality. ” fRoots

Uiscedwr at Rugby Roots, Rugby, Warwickshire
“Uiscedwr (pronounced "ish-ka-dooer") is a trio which plays British folk music influenced by world music. The group was originally based in Manchester and went on to win the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award in 2002.
Their first album gained them a nomination for the Horizon Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards in 2005. By this time, Uiscedwr was mixing British folk music with a strong Celtic bias with other influences including jazz, European folk and world musics."

Hannah James and Sam Sweeney at Folk In The Cellar, Lincoln, Lincolnshire
Recently nominated for the Horizon Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Hannah James and Sam Sweeney are clearly a duo on the rise. But they are no strangers to each other having performed together since their teens in the four-piece Kerfuffle.In 2009 they quickly cemented their reputation as rising stars with debut album “Catches and Glees”.
Hannah has a superb voice and is a step dancer in the award winning act The Demon Barber Roadshow. Sam plays fiddle and Northumbrian pipes and is a member of in Bellowhead. As a duo they have great energy and an infectious spontaneity.

Rachel Harrington and Rod Clements at The Guitar Bar, Nottingham
“Compared favourably with Gillian Welch and the young Emmylou Harris, Seattle's Rachel Harrington is the rising star of Americana and keeping the ancient art of the musical storyteller alive. For her 2010 tour she is accompanied by master slide guitarist, Bert Jansch collaborator Lindisfarne founder member, Rod Clements."

No Fixed Abode at The King William IV, Milford, Derbyshire
"No Fixed Abode are a blend of Una Walsh (vocals) and Tony Dean (guitar). Una originates in Ireland and has a voice as rich and smooth as the finest Irish malt whiskey. Tony’s guitar playing provides the ice. Together they invite you to sit back relax and enjoy Their mix of original acoustic songs blended together in a unique way that will take you on a magical mystery tour of your emotions."

The Wilson Family at The Royal Traditions, Dungworth, Near Sheffield, South Yorkshire
"There`s a musical honesty about them that links past and present together. They are among the people who go about singing traditional songs that move me - which I really love, because that's what I try to do. But what appeals to me about them, apart from their musical skill, is their honesty. They are what they are and do what they do and say what they say and it's very direct and I love that. They're not pretenders." - Dick Gaughan

The Young'uns at Kirkby Fleetham Folk Club, Kirkby Fleetham, Nr Northallerton, North Yorkshire
The Young'uns are a Hartlepool-based folk and maritime trio, recognised locally, nationally and internationally

Cloudsteet and support from Rebekah Findlay at Reeth Memorial Hall, Reeth, Nr Richmond, North Yorkshire
Cloudstreet present high-quality concert performances of new Australian folk music. Incorporating traditional and contemporary influences from England, Ireland and Australia, their music is engaging, exciting and fun. Cloudstreet's trademark is their innovative use of two-part vocal harmony, supported by driving guitar, soaring wooden flute along with concertina and percussion. They will draw you into the stories behind the songs, lifting your spirits with laughter, delighting you with their musicality and sharing with you their passion for the great songs of the Australian tradition. Support is by Rebekah Finlay (following her airplay on Mike Harding last week). Mike said this about her debut album, Northern Skies: "It's a brilliant cd ... great young singer".

The Paul McKenna Band at The Davy Lamp Folk Club, Washington, Tyne and Wear
"Combining a love of traditional music as well as original songs and tunes the Paul McKenna Band have been playing together since 2006. With a contemporary approach to songs, although not straying too far from their roots, their arrangements are both fresh and innovative.

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Sunday 26th September 2010

Andy Irvine at Walthamstow Folk Club, Walthamstow, East London
"Andy Irvine has been hailed as "a tradition in himself." Musician, singer and songwriter, Andy has maintained both personal integrity and highly individual performing skills throughout his 40-year career. From Sweeney's Men in the mid sixties to the enormous success of Planxty in the 70s, to THE Irish super group, Patrick Street, in the 80s, Andy has been a world music pioneer and icon for traditional music and musicians."

Kris Drever with Anna Massie at Twickfolk, Twickenham, West London
'Kris Drever Hails from Orkney and now lives in Edinburgh Scotland. Drever is a multi instrumentalist, songwriter and singer who following two low key releases with the Scottish group Fine Friday and one with Session A9, released his debut album "Black Water" for indie label Reveal Records (October 2006). ‘Black Water’ brought him to the attention of the BBC Folk Awards who honoured him with the Horizon Award for Best Newcomer and the album has since sold in excess of 10,000 copies in the UK alone.'

Stompin' Dave at The Bell, Bath, Somerset 1pm-3pm
"Stompin' Dave Allen performs American roots music on guitar, five-string banjo, fiddle, piano, harmonica, vocals & tap dancing. Dave specializes in American roots music: old-time, bluegrass, blues, country blues, folk, vintage country & hillbilly. Traditional songs & tunes, originals & covers."

Martin Carthy and Dave Swarbrick at The Folk House, Bristol
"`Arguably the greatest English folk song performer, writer, collector and editor of them all' Q Magazine (2004) A startlingly intense reunion from this legendary, ground-breaking duo. All the old skills are demonstrated with a new collection of traditional songs and instrumentals. Their experienced approach to their art lacks none of the fervour of their early days, and brings a maturity born of many years living with the music that is an integral part of their beings. Dave Swarbrick Regarded by many as Britain’s finest folk fiddler Dave Swarbrick has inspired and influenced countless musicians over five decades."

Bob Brozman at The Arts Centre, Salisbury, Wiltshire
'Redefining musical diversity worldwide, Bob Brozman is a remarkably prolific artist whose wit, energy, and musical technique combine powerfully to create an unforgettable live performance. A master of slide, fingerstyle, and percussive guitar, Bob's exhilarating show spans the global and musical spectrum, and keeps audiences enthralled, begging for more of his endearing, infectious energy.'

Drew Nelson at Farncombe Cavern, The Freeholders, St. John's Street, Farncombe, Surrey
"Drew Nelson is one of my favorite new artists. He is an excellent guitarist as well as an accomplished songwriter. His songs sound like the rest of us feel. Drew's characters are anything but defeated. They are dazed,angry, amazed and climbing." -John Gorka

Fran McGillivray and Mike Burke at The Ranelagh Arms, 2-3 High Street, Brighton BN2 1RP
Vibrant original songs complemented by soulful, dynamic and powerful interpretations of blues, and British and American folk songs.
“A gritty combination of acoustic blues, country, folk and Celtic influences” Rock ‘n’ Reel Magazine

The Curst Sons at Robertsbridge Village Hall, Robertsbridge, East Sussex 4:00pm
The Curst Sons - Inspired by American traditional music with an added shot of urban grit and dose of wry humour the Sons powerful rootsy songs combine Old Time, Hillbilly and Hellfire Gospel. The powerful stripped down live shows are a wonder to behold.

Le Trio Joubran at The Stables, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire

"Le Trio Joubran are the sons of a master luthier, who is the son of a master luthier; their family is steeped in the 4,000-year history of the oud, ancestor of the guitar. This instrument is their passion, their skill and their life and they perform on ouds built by brother Wissam, who was the first Arabic luthier to graduate from the Stradivarius Institute in Cremona, Italy. Their mastery of this beautiful, exotic instrument is complete as they join us to tour their new album Majâz. The title means “metaphor”, appropriate to an ensemble that plays instrumental music inspired by poetry. "

Rachel Harrington and Rod Clements at Lichfield Guildhall, Lichfield, Staffordshire
“Compared favourably with Gillian Welch and the young Emmylou Harris, Seattle's Rachel Harrington is the rising star of Americana and keeping the ancient art of the musical storyteller alive. For her 2010 tour she is accompanied by master slide guitarist, Bert Jansch collaborator Lindisfarne founder member, Rod Clements."

No Fixed Abode at The Paddock, Melbourne, Derbyshire 2:00-4:00pm
"No Fixed Abode are a blend of Una Walsh (vocals) and Tony Dean (guitar). Una originates in Ireland and has a voice as rich and smooth as the finest Irish malt whiskey. Tony’s guitar playing provides the ice. Together they invite you to sit back relax and enjoy Their mix of original acoustic songs blended together in a unique way that will take you on a magical mystery tour of your emotions."

Chatham County Line at The Brudenell Social Club, Leeds, West Yorkshire
Bluegrass Quartet

James Keelaghan at Helmsley Arts Centre, Helmsley, North Yorkshire
"It was Dave Marsh, the award-winning American music critic and historian who not so long ago stated that James Keelaghan is “Canada’s finest songwriter.” Those few but powerful words of praise say it all about an artist who continues to set the bar at a lofty height. James Keelaghan is an artist who has proven to be a man for all seasons. As the calendar pages have turned, for almost a quarter of a century now, this poet of the folk and roots music world has gone about his work with a combination of passion, curiosity intent and intensity. His masterful story telling has, over the course of nine recordings, been part of the bedrock of his success, earning Keelaghan nominations and awards - including a Juno (Canada's Grammy) - and acclaim from Australia to Scandinavia."

Sarah McQuaid at Falkirk Folk Club, Falkirk
"Renowned for her warm, engaging stage presence, Sarah McQuaid is a versatile and beguiling performer. In addition to her own elegantly crafted originals, she interprets traditional Irish and Appalachian folk songs, Elizabethan ballads, 1930s jazz numbers, surprise covers and lively guitar instrumentals with panache and poignance."

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Monday 27th September 2010

Steve Ashley at Croydon Folk Club, Croydon, Surrey
"Steve Ashley has long been regarded as one of British folk’s finest singer-songwriters. His reputation for writing contemporary songs inspired by the English Tradition was established in 1974 with his innovative debut album, Stroll On. Since then his songs have been recorded by many leading folk artists including Fairport Convention, Martin and Jessica Simpson, Grace Notes, Phil Beer, Maggie Boyle and The Bushwackers. He has also played a significant role in the development of British folk-rock, performing as a lead singer with the first Albion Country Band."

Crayside Folk Club, at The Seven Stars, Foots Cray High Street, Sidcup, Kent
Informal Session/Singaround

Bob Brozman at Marr's Bar, Worcester, Worcestershire
'Redefining musical diversity worldwide, Bob Brozman is a remarkably prolific artist whose wit, energy, and musical technique combine powerfully to create an unforgettable live performance. A master of slide, fingerstyle, and percussive guitar, Bob's exhilarating show spans the global and musical spectrum, and keeps audiences enthralled, begging for more of his endearing, infectious energy.'

Club Night at The Bridge Folk Club, Newcastle Upon Tyne

Fiddlers Bid at Melrose Corn Exchange, Melrose, Scottish Borders 01896 822 376
“The musical tornado” known as Fiddlers’ Bid are internationally respected as Leading exponents of Shetland’s rich fiddle tradition. Their music is created through a distinctive bond of seven formidable musicians."

Sarah McQuaid at Glenfarg Folk Club, Glenfarg, Perth
"Renowned for her warm, engaging stage presence, Sarah McQuaid is a versatile and beguiling performer. In addition to her own elegantly crafted originals, she interprets traditional Irish and Appalachian folk songs, Elizabethan ballads, 1930s jazz numbers, surprise covers and lively guitar instrumentals with panache and poignance."

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Tuesday 28th September 2010

Bob Brozman at The Half Moon, Putney, West London
'Redefining musical diversity worldwide, Bob Brozman is a remarkably prolific artist whose wit, energy, and musical technique combine powerfully to create an unforgettable live performance. A master of slide, fingerstyle, and percussive guitar, Bob's exhilarating show spans the global and musical spectrum, and keeps audiences enthralled, begging for more of his endearing, infectious energy.'

The Diablos at The Seagull Inn, South Road, Bream Sands, Somerset
Country Rock

Spiers and Boden at The David Hall, South Petherton, Somerset
"Described by The Guardian as “the finest instrumental duo on the traditional scene” and twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk award for Best Duo, John Spiers and Jon Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground."

Andy Irvine at Dartford Folk Club, Dartford, Kent
"Andy Irvine has been hailed as "a tradition in himself." Musician, singer and songwriter, Andy has maintained both personal integrity and highly individual performing skills throughout his 40-year career. From Sweeney's Men in the mid sixties to the enormous success of Planxty in the 70s, to THE Irish super group, Patrick Street, in the 80s, Andy has been a world music pioneer and icon for traditional music and musicians."

Hannah James and Sam Sweeney at The Moonshine Room, Worcester, Worcestershire
Recently nominated for the Horizon Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Hannah James and Sam Sweeney are clearly a duo on the rise. But they are no strangers to each other having performed together since their teens in the four-piece Kerfuffle.In 2009 they quickly cemented their reputation as rising stars with debut album “Catches and Glees”.
Hannah has a superb voice and is a step dancer in the award winning act The Demon Barber Roadshow. Sam plays fiddle and Northumbrian pipes and is a member of in Bellowhead. As a duo they have great energy and an infectious spontaneity.

Singers Night at The Brown Cow Folk Club, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
"all singers, musicians & listeners welcome "

Open Mic at The Vernon Arms Folk Club, 21 Locko Rd, Spondon. Derby

Singers Night at Cramlington Folk Club, Dewley, Cramlington, Northumberland

Fiddlers Bid at Brunton Theatre, Musselburgh, Midlothian
“The musical tornado” known as Fiddlers’ Bid are internationally respected as Leading exponents of Shetland’s rich fiddle tradition. Their music is created through a distinctive bond of seven formidable musicians."

Sarah McQuaid at Leith Folk Club, Edinburgh
"Renowned for her warm, engaging stage presence, Sarah McQuaid is a versatile and beguiling performer. In addition to her own elegantly crafted originals, she interprets traditional Irish and Appalachian folk songs, Elizabethan ballads, 1930s jazz numbers, surprise covers and lively guitar instrumentals with panache and poignance."

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Wednesday 29th September 2010

She’Koyokh at The Green Note, London
"Wild Eastern European Jewish and Balkan dance music performed with magnetic dynamism and rousing energy alongside soulful Gypsy anthems and Sephardic love songs."

The Old Dance School and Jamie Harrison at The Magpies Nest Folk Club, Islington, London
"Harnessing energy from the elements, and inspiration from their adventures across wild British Landscape, the much anticipated colourful new release from The Old Dance School offers evocative images, blistering tunes and vivid songs with a virtuosity and vitality which draws from their classical and jazz informed backgrounds."
"Jamie Harrison sings about the struck world and plays death-rattle guitar rags for mothers on the stairs. He has tinnitus of the heart-valves."

The Diablos at The Seagull Inn, South Road, Bream Sands, Somerset
Country Rock

Steve Turner at Dorking Folk Club, Dorking, Surrey
"A shining example of the music the British folk scene is capable of producing."
FRoots

Andy Irvine at Baldock and Letchworth Folk Club, Baldock, Hertfordshire
"Andy Irvine has been hailed as "a tradition in himself." Musician, singer and songwriter, Andy has maintained both personal integrity and highly individual performing skills throughout his 40-year career. From Sweeney's Men in the mid sixties to the enormous success of Planxty in the 70s, to THE Irish super group, Patrick Street, in the 80s, Andy has been a world music pioneer and icon for traditional music and musicians."

Bob Brozman at The Assembly House, Norwich, Norfolk
'Redefining musical diversity worldwide, Bob Brozman is a remarkably prolific artist whose wit, energy, and musical technique combine powerfully to create an unforgettable live performance. A master of slide, fingerstyle, and percussive guitar, Bob's exhilarating show spans the global and musical spectrum, and keeps audiences enthralled, begging for more of his endearing, infectious energy.'

'Fiddle n Folk' at The Three Horse Shoes, Sambrook, Nr Newport, Shropshire
good music, company, beer and food, need more info call John 07800 663 953

Justin Rutledge & Amelia Curran at Henry Boons, Westgate, Wakefield. West Yorkshire 01924 378126 (£8 advance)
Canadian singer-songwriter double bill

Session at Dunfermline Folk Club, Dunfermline, Fife
"All musicians and listeners welcome. Always a great night. Free."

Wizz Jones at Edinburgh Folk Club, Edinburgh
"There are few artists with more claim to being a 'musician's musician' than Wizz Jones. Inspired by Big Bill Broonzy, Rambling Jack Elliot, Alexis Korner and Ewan MacColl, and learning his guitar licks from the likes of Davy Graham and Long John Baldry while playing in the coffee bars of London's Soho during the late nineteen fifties."

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Thursday 30th September 2010

Tradicional Cubano Trio at The National Theatre Foyer, South Bank, Waterloo, London 5:45pm Free
"Traditional Cuban music of the 1920s and 40s"

Jackie Oates and support from Belinda O'Hooley and Heidi Tidow at Cecil Sharp House, Camden, London
"Winner of two BBC Folk Awards 2009 Jackie Oates is a singer and fiddle player hailing from Staffordshire. Her unique treatment of English ballads and songs, and pure, haunting singing style has attracted increasing attention. In September she performs at Cecil Sharp House with material from her new album Hyperboreans, nominated for the BBC Folk Awards 2010 Album of the Year.
Support comes from dapper-suited gentlewomen Belinda O'Hooley and Heidi Tidow, who bring their intensely beautiful, poetic and wryly observant take on the human condition to the contemporary folk scene."

Eilen Jewell at The Luminaire, Kilburn, London
Eilen Jewell burst onto the Boston music scene with her 2005 debut, Boundary Country. Reaction to her music was swift, with many comparing her talents to those of Lucinda Williams, Gillian Welch and June Carter Cash. Jewell’s heart-achingly hushed style and intimate grasp of roots music have earned her rave reviews, both nationally and abroad. No Depression wrote "Jewell is showing she can wander with the best of them, and write riveting song-stories about her adventures along the way."

Sam Carter at The Lexington, Islington, London
"Winner of 2010 bbc folk horizon award for best newcomer Sam Carter is a precocious young singer and guitarist from Rutland. Since moving to London in 2004 he has been busily honing his craft as a writer and performer. Sam has studied guitar with Martin Simpson and supported Bellowhead on their ‘Matachin’ album launch tour, which led Bellowhead lead singer Jon Boden to hail him as ‘the finest English-style finger-picking guitarist of his generation’."

Jody Kruskal at Islington Folk Club, Clerkenwell, London
"American singer and concertina player"

Irish Traditional Folk Session at The Drifwood Spars, Trevaunance Cove, St. Agnes, Cornwall 8:30 onwards
All Welcome

Spiers and Boden at Bath Folk Club, Bath, Somerset
"Described by The Guardian as “the finest instrumental duo on the traditional scene” and twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk award for Best Duo, John Spiers and Jon Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground."

The Old Dance School at The Left Bank Bar, Bristol
'Seven of the exciting young folk scene's finest musicians bring a virtuosity and vitality to newhorizons, blistering tunes, evocative textures and songs vivid withinspiration from their adventures across the richness of British landscape.'

Stompin' Dave at The R.M.A., Southsea, Hampshire
"Stompin' Dave Allen performs American roots music on guitar, five-string banjo, fiddle, piano, harmonica, vocals & tap dancing. Dave specializes in American roots music: old-time, bluegrass, blues, country blues, folk, vintage country & hillbilly. Traditional songs & tunes, originals & covers."

The Claque at Folk at The Royal Oak, Lewes, Sussex
"Tom Addison, Barry Lister, Dave Lowry and Sean O’Shea. Distilled from the legendary groups of old, four voices of depth and maturity blended to bring warmth and harmony to the English Tradition."

The Curst Sons at The Stag Centre, London Rd, Sevenoaks, Kent
The Curst Sons - Inspired by American traditional music with an added shot of urban grit and dose of wry humour the Sons powerful rootsy songs combine Old Time, Hillbilly and Hellfire Gospel. The powerful stripped down live shows are a wonder to behold.

Singaround at The Tump Folk Club, Coombe Social Club, Brinklow Road, Coventry, West Midlands

Kevin Dempsey and Joe Broughton at Chequemates Folk Club, Tamworth & Hopwas Social Club, School Lane, Hopwas, Nr Tamworth, Staffordshire
"These two virtuosi of guitar and fiddle like to do their own thing, when they're not earning their crusts in big bands, jazz-rock, pop and soul gigs and the likes of Whippersnapper and the Albion Band. Joe has been playing since he was in the pram and has a PhD in circus skills and mad banter. Kevin has been around a bit longer and has played a few more notes. Musically they're tighter than two coats of paint. Expect anything!"

Dumbles Folk Singaround at The Dumbles Pub, Westhorpe, Southwell, Nottinghamshire
"At the Dumbles Folk we welcome all musicians, singers, poets and listeners"

Andy Irvine at The Musician, Leicester
"Andy Irvine has been at the core of many of the great Irish traditional groups, from the groundbreaking Sweeney's Men to the classic Planxty and more recently in Patrick Street. He has also had an extensive solo career and collaborated with Dick Gaughan, Paul Brady, Davy Spillane and others."

John Tams and Barry Coope at The Topic Folk Club, Bradford, West Yorkshire
'John Tams is best known for his work at the National Theatre and on TV as an actor, songwriter and musician, as well as with the Albion Band and others. Barry is a masterful keyboard player and singer. Together their spine tingling music is rich, diverse, contemporary and utterly compelling.'

Wendy Arrowsmith at Barnard Castle Folk Club, The Beaconsfield, 105 Galgate, Barnard Castle, County Durham
"Born and raised in the suburbs of Glasgow, Wendy’s musical influences as a child were mostly Trad Jazz or Church hymns! Although she learnt Burns and other traditional Scottish songs at school, it wasn’t until she moved to England to marry that she began to really delve into traditional folk music. Wendy has sung many different styles of music – ranging from large scale classical choral works, operetta and musicals to backing vocalist for a prog rock band! But with folk music she has found songs that come from the heart and allow great emotional expression and social commentary. She describes herself as “a singer who plays guitar”, but this shouldn’t detract from Wendy’s musical abilities not just on guitar, but also on whistles, bodhran, mandolin and most recently accordion."

Marie Little at Darlington Folk Club, The Arts Centre, Darlington, County Durham
"Most singers feel it important to include a high measure of 'topical' songs that show some social conscience. This has always been the case with singers like Marie, and yet it is obvious to her that entertainment is the name of the game. Hence her repertoire of songs veers through cotton songs, mining songs, music hall, country and pop songs, and judging by her popularity it is a winning combination, yet she manages to stamp her style on each song with ease" Jez Lowe

Rachel Harrington (with Rod Clements) at Rothbury Roots, Rothbury, Northumberland
From the USA, this supremely talented lady led one reviewer to say "... as good an example of traditional Americana as you’ll find anywhere ... a great storyteller ...It’s been a good year for Americana already, and Harrington has just made it a lot better." Rachel and Rod are already receiving rave reviews for this tour. With support from local band TRIAD.

Fiddlers Bid at The Playhouse, Alnwick, Northumberland
“The musical tornado” known as Fiddlers’ Bid are internationally respected as Leading exponents of Shetland’s rich fiddle tradition. Their music is created through a distinctive bond of seven formidable musicians."

Sarah McQuaid at Denholm Folk Club, Denholm, Scottish Borders
"Renowned for her warm, engaging stage presence, Sarah McQuaid is a versatile and beguiling performer. In addition to her own elegantly crafted originals, she interprets traditional Irish and Appalachian folk songs, Elizabethan ballads, 1930s jazz numbers, surprise covers and lively guitar instrumentals with panache and poignance."

The True Gents at Eddys Acoustic Nights, Kirkcaldy, Fife
The True Gents have played extensively around Scotland, alongside the likes of Shooglenifty, The Levellers, Findlay Napier and Bombscare, and have performed at venues and events such as Jura Festival, Eden Festival,Celtic Connections, Dougie Maclean’s Perthshire Amber (where Euan and Toby also won the songwriting competition), Perth Theatre, Ben Nevis Centre and have headlined their own ‘Brockstock’ event at Burghead.

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