Monday 1st September
Paula Ryan at The Last Drop Inn, 27 Colliergate, York
Celtic Singer-songwriter
Acushla at Woodlark Folk Club, Lambley, Nottingham
Kirsty McGee and Matt Martin at The Nexus Art Cafe, Manchester
'shivering, hollering, edgy, dark, delightful, disturbing, involving, beautifully phrased, acoustic music' - the living tradition
Debby McClatchy at The Town Hall, Sedbergh, Cumbria 01833 637 469
"wonderful performer with a magnificent repertoire of old-timey material. Her combination of goodtime, old-time banjo, glorious singing- with occasional outbreaks of mountain fiddling and freestyle Appalachian stepping make for an unmissable evening."
Eileen McGann at Stirling Folk Club, Stirling
"Described as “one of the folk scene’s most breathtaking voices”, whenever Eileen McGann steps onto the stage she brings with her three things - her incredible, clear, breathtaking voice, a wealth of musical experience, and a fantastic collection of traditional and contemporary songs, taken from all over the world. Irish-Canadian by birth, Eileen’s repertoire includes traditional songs from both of these countries as well as England and Scotland, and she also regularly tackles songs by more contemporary writers, including a number of beautiful self-penned songs. Hauntingly emotive, her gorgeous voice is able to expertly communicate the emotion of every song she sings, and all of her live performances are infused with vibrancy, laughter, stories and songs that can truly capture the heart."
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Tuesday 2nd September
Reg Meuross and Phil Beer at Winkleigh Village Hall, Winkleigh, Devon
'One of Britains finest Singer/Songwriters' - Time Out Magazine.
Folk Singaround Session at The Good Intent, John Street, Rochester, Kent
Nancy Kerr & James Fagan at Dartford Folk Club, Dartford, Kent
"This well-loved duo combine highly skilful and innovative performance with accessibility, warmth and stage presence. Rarely are duos so full in sound; Nancy’s earthy and exquisite fiddle and viola playing dances with the striking rhythmic texture of James’s guitar-bouzouki, while their rich singing both as soloists and in harmony evokes the stories of the songs they choose and write. They approach their music with energy and infectious smiles."
John Kirkpatrick at The Hoy at Anchor Folk Club, Leigh on Sea, Essex
"one of the most prolific figures on the English folk scene, performing solo, in duos, acoustic groups and electric bands, and has established an enviable reputation as an instrumental virtuoso and session musician, as well as a leading interpreter of English folk music."
Barrow Sessions at The Six Bells Pub, Barrow on Humber, North Lincolnshire
20.30 onwards, singers & musicians
Jon Woode and Lucy Kitt at The Island Folk Club, Broadstairs, Kent
Ed Rennie at St Neots Folk Club, St Neots, Cambridge
"Ed is the squeezebox player with The Bismarks and has been a solo artist for a few years. He sings and plays cittern, guitar and melodeon with material drawn from a wide range of ancient and modern, English and further a field. There will be songs of love, life and laughs with plenty of joining in! "
Informal singaround at Ringwood Folk Club, The Elm Tree Hightown, Ringwood, Hampshire
"Tunes, unes, songs and poems"
Steve Turner at The Brit Folk Club, The Britannia, Archer Street, Darlington
Steve Turner has been turning into one of this country's finest male singers and performers of folk-song [...] with him you can truly say that he has shown all the qualities of a great singer and interpreter of folk song. Swing 51, National Folk Magazine
Kirsty McGee and Matt Martin at The View Two Gallery, Liverpool
'shivering, hollering, edgy, dark, delightful, disturbing, involving, beautifully phrased, acoustic music' - the living tradition
James Hollingsworth at The Merchants Inn, 5 Little Church Street, Rugby, Warwickshire
"James Hollingsworth’s main stage set on the Saturday afternoon of the festival ranged from what was grounded in the traditional – a voice buzzing in the ear, the familiar plucked guitar – to what seemed to border on the celestial, as both voice and a much effected, but delicately measured, acoustic guitar swept back and forth across the arena. James’ performance was captivating…truly so, as many followed him to the intimate surroundings of the Bar Stage later in the afternoon, where an equally diverse mixture of songs and styles was in evidence." - Abbey Mill Folk Festival, 2006
Anthony John Clarke at Cramlington Folk Club, Cramlington, Northumberland
Singer Songwriter
Lori Watson and Rule of Three at The Leith Folk Club, Leith, Edinburgh
"A very welcome back to Lori, Innes and Fiona - known in these parts as the giggles! Always fun, always charming, and always superb! This will be a lovely evening in the company of three of the brightest rising stars in the cosmos of Scottish traditional music."
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Wednesday 3rd September
Needleandthread presents the redstar open mic, The Redstar, 319 Camberwell Road, London
"with free entrance, live music, and two for one cocktails all night, it'll be a good one.. Live music celebrated in all its forms.. if you want to play, sign ups are from seven thirty pm.. bring your instruments, and play your own songs, to an appreciative audience.. or come be a part of the crowd! We welcome all styles.. spoken word, and acoustic acts are catered fully, with a nice sound system, monitoring, and sound engineer on hand.."
Folkadot Featuring The Vatican Cellars + Jonny Berliner + Rob Sharples at The Green Note Cafe, Camden, London
The Vatican Cellars: Some call it heartbreak in a glass. Some call it “night-folk”. But why don’t we all just agree on “excellent” for now.
Jonny Berliner: A battered guitar, a whisky tinged voice and songs that range from humour and irony to sadness, transport and spiritual justice. Accompanied by John Cottle on the cello, this is destined to be a gig not to miss from Folkadot’s resident musician.
Rob Sharples: “...With his shock of curly hair and winsome good looks Sharples has not only the look, not only the talent, but also that indefinable essence of greatness about him. Much, much bigger stages are predicted...” Terrascope
Rory Ellis at The Half Moon, Putney, West London
Rory Ellis is one of those quintessential Australian singer songwriters with buckets of talent, heaps of stories to tell, and impossible to pigeonhole. He's got blues man in him, and some "soul-belter, red-dirt country, and home-grown folkie",Jeff Glorfeld The Age.
"CEOL AGUS OL" at The Nightingale Public House, 51 Nightingale Lane, Wanstead, East London E11 2EY
"An Evening of Traditional Irish Music every Wednesday evening from 8.30 - 11pm. All Session players welcome. Food available on the night.( 020 84530 4540 )."
Folk Music Workshops at The Mick Jagger Centre, Dartford, Kent (7.45pm till 9.45pm)
Meet every Wednesday at the mjc 7.45pm to 9.45pm. Any instrument and experience welcome.
For more information call 01322 225567
Singers Night at Faversham Folk Club, Faversham, Kent
"Join in by singing, playing, reciting or just join the audience"
Roy Bailey supported by
Nicky Swann at Wessex Acoustic Folk Club, The Farquharson Arms, Pimperne, nr Blandford, Dorset
"One the Folk World's finest voices, Roy Bailey has been performing for more than 40 years both in the UK and abroad. He has sung in folk clubs, in arts centres and in front of huge festival audiences at Sidmouth International Festival, Vancouver Folk Festival, the National Festival in Australia and many, many more. His warmth and humour create a unique atmosphere of humanity and comradeship and as Billy Bragg once said of him, "(Roy's voice is) as powerful and moving as anything I'd heard by The Clash"'
"Nicky Swann is a performer who effortlessly combines talent and grace, ability and daring. In the shows we’ve done together, I’ve noted that she approaches her craft from the seemingly disparate disiplines of vocalist and artist, writer and musician. Simply put, she dedicates herself to the sensibilities her material offers, while retaining an air of complete originality".
Groanbox Boys at The Carlyon Arms St Austell, Cornwall
"There are acoustic-guitar- picking folk groups, there are accordion-pounding Gypsy troupes, there are harmonica-blowing blues combos and gourd-banjo-frailing world-music troubadours; there are even, probably, musicians who carry six-foot-high percussion sticks around with them. But -there is surely no musical partnership that brings all of the above together as bracingly as the Groanbox Boys." - Ben Chu, The Independent
The Queensberry Rules at Spalding Folk Club, The South Holland Centre, Market Street, Spalding. Lincolnshire
"Good natured humour and instantly accessible material... pretty damn good" - FRoots
Rob Halligan at The Travellers Rest, Draycott, Derbyshire
Acoustic folk singer/songwriter
Kirsty McGee and Matt Martin at The Musician, Leicester
'shivering, hollering, edgy, dark, delightful, disturbing, involving, beautifully phrased, acoustic music' - the living tradition
Tradfest Irish session’ with Grace Kelly and Friends at Union Music Lounge, 845 Stockport Road, Levenshulme, Manchester
Acoustic/Folk Session at The Railway Hotel, Pleasington, Lancashire
Starts Around 8.30pm Till Midnight.A Talented Bunch Of Musicians Perform A Wide Variety Of Music Every Week Including, Irish, Lancs, Bluegrass, Blues, Jazz.
Mandolins.Banjos,Whistles.Harmonica,Bodhran.Fiddle,Guitars.
All Welcome Free Drink To Guest Musicians,Free Supper.Good Rail Links,Great Cask Beer.01254201520 For More Details
Singers Night at Otley Folk Club, Otley West Yorkshire
Singers and Musicians Night at Cottingham Live, The Back Room, 73 Hallgate, Cottingham, East Yorkshire
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Thursday 4th September
Gowling Old Men at Bath Folk Club, Widcombe Social Club, Widcombe Hill, Bath, Avon (Tickets)
"Five string Banjo Master Leon Hunt and Daily planet Guitarist Dominc Harrison will be touring with Amercian Bluegrass players that are cream of the crop, John Lowell and Ben Winship."
Rory Ellis at The Acorn Arts Centre, Penzance, Cornwall
Rory Ellis is one of those quintessential Australian singer songwriters with buckets of talent, heaps of stories to tell, and impossible to pigeonhole. He's got blues man in him, and some "soul-belter, red-dirt country, and home-grown folkie",Jeff Glorfeld The Age.
Heather Dale at Bideford Folk Club, Bideford, Devon
"Heather Dale cheerfully disregards the stereotypical limits for both folk singer-songwriters and Celtic balladeers. Tapping into the continuing evolution of Celtic peoples worldwide, this Canadian recording artist offers a new type of Celtic music for the 21st century: a playful, passionate blend of tradition and innovation. "Her music is powerful stuff, reminiscent of Loreena McKennitt and Sarah McLachlan but with a depth and resonance rooted in its mythic sources." (Vancouver Sun)
Reg Meuross and Phil Beer at Holsworthy Memorial Hall, Holsworthy, Devon
'One of Britains finest Singer/Songwriters' - Time Out Magazine.
James Hollingsworth at The Thatch, 14 Hobb's Hill, Croyde Bay, Croyde, 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
The Hot Club of Cowtown at Dingwalls, Camden, London
"The Hot Club of Cowtown has grown to be the most globe-trotting, hard-swinging Western Swing trio on the planet. From early days busking for tips in San Diego's Balboa Park, the band has grown and developed into a formidable international sensation. The Hot Club's ever-growing presence on the international festival scene has grown with it's relentless touring over the years alongside the release of five critically acclaimed CDs released in the USA, Japan and the UK."
Wild Willy Barrett's Sleeping Dogz at Islington Folk Club, Clerkenwell, London
"Featuring Wild Willy Barrett, Mary Holland and John Devine, this band play a fun mixture of music styles ranging from toe-tapping, foot- stomping fiddle and banjo, lively Irish jigs and reels on the pipes, to haunting melodies on guitar, cello and flute - all presented with a large dose of wry humour!"
Steven Finn at IK:Toms @ Liberties Bar, Camden, London from 8.30 pm
'In this modern world it's not often you find songs so deeply cultivated in
the folk and roots tradition. Timeless, yet completely relevant, these are
songs you want to listen to again and again. As a performer, Steve doesn't
just let his songs speak for themselves (which he could), instead backing it
all up with crafted skill and dynamic delivery.' (Bristol Folk House review)
John Etheridge supported by Kit Holmes at The Lund Theatre, London 07796 334566
"John Etheridge is one of the world’s most respected guitarists and his music spans a myriad of styles and influences. He was the guitarist for the celebrated jazz violinist Stephane Grappelli and he has also performed with Soft Machine, Pat Metheny, Andy Summers, Dizzy Gillespie, Nigel Kennedy and is currently in a duo with the eminent classical guitarist John Williams. This is a rare opportunity to see John performing a solo concert, which features tracks from his highly acclaimed new album I didn’t know."
"John’s special guest on this tour is Kit Holmes - a singer/songwriter and rising guitar star. Her music fuses a broad range of influences from pop to folk, blues and soul. Kit's latest album, Catch The Echo, which features the legendary double bass player Danny Thompson was given a 5 Star Review by Maverick. Kit’s music has been played on both the Bob Harris and Andy Kershaw Show and she was recently asked to give a master-class at Paul McCartney’s LIPA."
''Full of warmth…an absolute delight"
The Egan Sisters at The Irish Cultural Centre, Hammersmith, West London
"Highly acclaimed fiddle player and two times winner of the All-Britain fiddle title, London-based Claire Egan is equally accomplished as a traditional fiddler and a classical violinist. Introduced to traditional Irish music by her late grandfather Patrick Coffey, an accordion player from Co. Tipperary, she went on to learn from the Master himself, Brendan Mulkere. Claire has achieved a Masters degree in music and has established her classical career playing in orchestras in London and abroad. Sinéad Egan was encouraged to pursue Irish music by her mother and began to study classical guitar at the age of 7 and her natural ability was nurtured by the sensitive musicality of Kieran Mulkere. Sinéad has accompanied various virtuosos, such as Tommy Peoples."
Ron Trueman-Border and The Perfect Strangers at Orpington Folk Club, Orpington, Kent
"Ron employs a wealth of musical forms and influences to produce songs that vividly portray an Everyman's vision of life in the 21st century" Steve Clarke
Stanley Robertson, Liam Farrell, Joe Whelan, Reg Hall and Sam Lee at Folk at The Royal Oak, Lewes, Sussex
"We have an assembly of favourite and talented singers & musicians from Scotland, England and Ireland to help us celebrate the 60th birthday of Will Duke, our much loved and very talented resident singer and musician"
Kirsty McGee and Matt Martin at The Greyhound, Wivenhoe High Street, Wivenhoe, Essex
'shivering, hollering, edgy, dark, delightful, disturbing, involving, beautifully phrased, acoustic music' - the living tradition
Singaround at The Tump Folk Club, British Legion, Heath Lane, Brinklow, Warwickshire
Michelle Chandler at Brewood Folk Club, Brewood, Staffordshire
Michelle Chandler is an accomplished award winning songwriter and compelling performer.
The Free Press wrote "Michelle Chandler's ability in song composition and her velvety voice made for breath-taking entertainment. It was the best original music I have heard in a long time." She is a skilled guitarist, gifted with a beautifully rich velvet voice and a seasoned performer, who demonstrates influences from folk and jazz to blues and country. Michelle paints unique pictures from keen observations of life around her. Having crafted some fine songs, comparisons are often being made to artists like Neil Finn, Shawn Colvin, Tracy Chapman, Janis Ian & Norah Jones.
Little Toby Walker at The Harbourside Club, Liverpool
“A unique and accomplished fingerstyle guitar virtuoso, Toby is adept at blues, rags and hot country picking and coaxes more out of a guitar than anyone could imagine. A skilled singer and songwriter as well, Toby draws inspiration from traditional and contemporary music creating something uniquely his own"
Dabbers' Session, The Oddfellows Arms, Welsh Row, Nantwich, Cheshire
A great little pub close to the canal and the town (walking distance). All singers and musicians welcome to participate.
a target="_blank" href="http://www.tombliss.co.uk/">Tom Bliss at The Black Swan Folk Club, York
"This guy has pretty well universal appeal - with his beautiful voice, his accomplished playing of several instruments and the range of his material. Tom’s songs are accessible and engaging, with humour and singable choruses, and he appeals to the traditionalists and the modernists alike. We are guaranteed a wonderful evening." Tom and Barbara Brown - Shammic Acoustic Sessions
Roger Davies at The Topic Folk Club, Bradford
"Roger Davies is making a name for himself as one of todays most entertaining Acoustic Folk Singer Songwriters."
Eileen McGann at The Arts Centre, Darlington
"Described as “one of the folk scene’s most breathtaking voices”, whenever Eileen McGann steps onto the stage she brings with her three things - her incredible, clear, breathtaking voice, a wealth of musical experience, and a fantastic collection of traditional and contemporary songs, taken from all over the world. Irish-Canadian by birth, Eileen’s repertoire includes traditional songs from both of these countries as well as England and Scotland, and she also regularly tackles songs by more contemporary writers, including a number of beautiful self-penned songs. Hauntingly emotive, her gorgeous voice is able to expertly communicate the emotion of every song she sings, and all of her live performances are infused with vibrancy, laughter, stories and songs that can truly capture the heart."
Whitby Folk Club at The Friendship Rowing Club, Church Street, Whitby, North Yorkshire
Vin Garbutt at South Lakes Music Promotions, Ulverston, Lancashire
"Teesside's own venerable legend of the folk scene worldwide, Vin Garbutt, is one of those performers whose work is drenched in such passionate fervour one has to listen seriously" - Rock 'n' Reel
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Friday 5th September
Teddington Acoustic Music Club at The Adelaide, Park Road, Teddington, West London
Formerly the Teddington Folk Club, TAMC is now held upstairs at The Adelaide on Park Road on the first Friday of each month, from 8.30pm to 11pm. The club is run to an open-mic format and all genres of acoustic music are welcome – traditional and modern folk music, blues, singer-songwriter, instrumental or a capella. Entry is free to audience and performers. Anyone wishing to play should turn up on the night and give their name to that month's host/MC. Contact jsporter@ndirect.co.uk to join the emailing list for regular updates.
Mazaika at The Green Note Cafe, Camden, London
"Russian folk & Gypsy music, Russian & Argentine tango, virtuoso showpieces, opera highlights, Neapolitan songs & French chanson, Hotclub jazz & original compositions"
Benny Gallagher at The Ram Folk Club, Claygate, Surrey
"And what better way to start our stellar autumn season than with this man. A long-standing friend of the club, it is our privilege to cajole BENNY into doing the occasional acoustic gig for us and showcasing his awesome back catalogue of classic songs and some new ones too! Right from his early days at the Beatles' Apple label (where he teamed up with GRAHAM LYLE and wrote hits for Mary Hopkin among others) the sheer quality of the songs has shone through; When I'm Dead and Gone, Breakaway, Stay Young, I Wanna Stay With You, Heart in New York, Heart on My Sleeve were all huge hits for Art Garfunkel, Garth Brooks, Bryan Ferry as well as for Gallagher and Lyle. He has worked with everyone from Paul McCartney to Eric Clapton, and he continues to write, tour and foster new talent through his work at Sir Paul’s LIPA."
Camine at The Coach and Horses, 37 Oxford St, Whitstable, Kent
"The music Camine play is firmly rooted in the traditional music of the Celtic nations, songs and tunes from Ireland and Scotland with the occasional foray into European musical traditions. From high-energy jigs and reels to sublime songs, with style and flare, Camine play music both ancient and modern set very much in the contemporary arena."
Reg Meuross and Phil Beer at Nailsea Folk Club, Nailsea, Somerset
Meuross 'One of Britains finest Singer/Songwriters' - Time Out Magazine.
Bag of Rats at Fleur de Lis, Stoke-sub-Hamdon, Near Yeovil, Somerset
"Spreading disease from the Somerset and Dorset area of the West Country comes a filthy scum slime of rats, in fact the Bag of Rats. The band have toured around the local area (to the dismay of all) gigging at festivals, pubs and folk clubs entertaining the crowds (is five people a crowd?) with their unique take on folk with influences in Traditional English Beer, Nuclear Physics (where's me bloody fusion? - you can't have nuclear physics without fusion), Blues, Irish, Jazz, Country, a smidgen of Ska (Naah), a hint of alternative (Alt what?) and a peppering of salt and psychedelic skiffle."
Paddys Whiskers at Ryans Irish Bar, Torquay, Devon
"Paddys Whiskers are a new 4 piece, Paignton based folk band who play a foot stomping mix of Irish and Celtic dance music and song.
Paul, Alex, Jules and Andrew are well seasoned folk musicians who between them play flute, fiddle, mandola, bodhran. banjo, whistles, mandolin, melodeon, guitar and Highland and Northumbrian bagpipes (though not all at the same time!) Everybody in the band sings.
They play in a full power style which gets people dancing and singing along to sea shanties and well known songs from the likes of the Pogues and the Dubliners.
Jules, the fiddle player from the band says 'I learned my music on the road - travelling around Europe busking and gigging. When you are busking for a living you have to be entertaining and cheeky - thats what audiences get to enjoy on a night with Paddy's Whiskers.'"
James Hollingsworth at The Crumplehorn Inn, Polperro, Cornwall
"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
Open House at Bodmin Folk Club, Bodmin, Cornwall
"Evenings when there are no featured guest artists, but an evening for local and visiting singers, musicians etc, to perform in a friendly and encouraging atmosphere - usually a lively and stimulating experience... or if you don't wish to perform and prefer to listen, you are equally welcome."
Steve Tilston at The White Horse Inn, 7 George Street, Moretonhampstead, Newton Abbot, Devon
"Steve is of that rare breed of singer, songwriter and guitarist who actually excels in all departments" Froots
Ron Trueman-Border at The Plough Inn, Grately, Andover, Hampshire
"Ron employs a wealth of musical forms and influences to produce songs that vividly portray an Everyman's vision of life in the 21st century" Steve Clarke
Kirsty McGee and Matt Martin at The Square and Compass, Worth Matravers, Dorset
'shivering, hollering, edgy, dark, delightful, disturbing, involving, beautifully phrased, acoustic music' - the living tradition
Kit Holmes at The Watermark, Ivybridge, Devon
"a singer/songwriter and rising guitar star. Her music fuses a broad range of influences from pop to folk, blues and soul. Kit's latest album, Catch The Echo, which features the legendary double bass player Danny Thompson was given a 5 Star Review by Maverick. Kit’s music has been played on both the Bob Harris and Andy Kershaw Show and she was recently asked to give a master-class at Paul McCartney’s LIPA."
''Full of warmth…an absolute delight"
Dan Mckinnon at The Milkmaid Folk Club, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk
"McKinnon has a talent for telling tales of life — its challenges and its beauty — in a poignant fashion which the audience can identify with.” (Cheryl Turner, Rambles Magazine)
The Hot Rats at The Prince of Wales, High Street, Strood, Rochester, Kent
"One of Southern England's most exciting Celt style folk/rock outfits" -Traditional Music Maker
Open night at The Valley Folk Club, Ivy Bush Hotel, High Street, Pontardawe, Swansea
"play, recite or just listen and sing choruses."
Singers Night at The Woodman Folk Club, Kingswinford, West Midlands
Wild Willy Barrett's Sleeping Dogz at The Limelight Theatre, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire
"Featuring Wild Willy Barrett, Mary Holland and John Devine, this band play a fun mixture of music styles ranging from toe-tapping, foot- stomping fiddle and banjo, lively Irish jigs and reels on the pipes, to haunting melodies on guitar, cello and flute - all presented with a large dose of wry humour!"
Kelly's Heroes at The Brewtown Folk Club, Burton on Trent, Staffordshire
"Driving jigs & reels, gentle airs & heartfelt ballads"
Jacqui McShees Pentangle at The Windsor Suite, King Georges Hall, Blackburn, Lancashire
"The band which evolved from 'About Thyme', Jacqui McShee's Pentangle, is a five-piece consisting of Jacqui McShee (vocals), Spencer Cozens (keyboards), Gerry Conway (drums), Gary Foote (tenor and soprano saxophones) and Alan Thomson (bass and guitar). Thomson has previously recorded or toured with Robert Palmer, Rick Wakeman, Andy Summers, Bo Diddley, John Martyn. Julia Fordham, Steps Ahead and Peoplespeak. As well as the new material from 'About Thyme', the band's live performances include some brilliant new versions of old Pentangle favorites. These are not simply nostalgic re-plays but imaginative new arrangements. It's as if the songs have given birth to sons and daughters with a recognisable family likeness but personalities of their own."
Eileen McGann at The Beehive Folk Club, The Beehive, Harthill Village, South Yorkshire
"Described as “one of the folk scene’s most breathtaking voices”, whenever Eileen McGann steps onto the stage she brings with her three things - her incredible, clear, breathtaking voice, a wealth of musical experience, and a fantastic collection of traditional and contemporary songs, taken from all over the world. Irish-Canadian by birth, Eileen’s repertoire includes traditional songs from both of these countries as well as England and Scotland, and she also regularly tackles songs by more contemporary writers, including a number of beautiful self-penned songs. Hauntingly emotive, her gorgeous voice is able to expertly communicate the emotion of every song she sings, and all of her live performances are infused with vibrancy, laughter, stories and songs that can truly capture the heart."
Vin Garbutt at The Rock at Maltby, Wesley Centre, Rotherham, South Yorkshire
Little Toby Walker at The Lawrence House Studio, Grand Theatre,
Blackpool, Lancashire
“A unique and accomplished fingerstyle guitar virtuoso, Toby is adept at blues, rags and hot country picking and coaxes more out of a guitar than anyone could imagine. A skilled singer and songwriter as well, Toby draws inspiration from traditional and contemporary music creating something uniquely his own"
“Long Hellos…Short Goodbyes” A tribute to John Wright. At The Journal Tyne Theatre, Newcastle Upon Tyne
“Long Hellos…Short Goodbyes”, a star-studded tribute from Britain’s leading contemporary artists as they celebrate the life and music of the much-missed international singer John Wright, who died earlier this year.
Featuring; John Wright’s Band (Pete Abbott, Gregor Borland, Joe Wright) -.Frasier Speirs - Allan Taylor - Steve Knightly (Show of Hands) - Kieran Halpin - Maartin Allcock & Troy Donockley - Thom Moore - Robin Laing - Ray Hearne - Brian Willoughby - Chris While & Julie Mathews - Rolling Home Shanty Choir (Holland)
Tickets £17.50 available from Box Office 0844 493 9999 or by visiting www.thejournaltynetheatre.co.uk. Further information and tickets can be obtained through www.johnwrightmusic.co.uk or email: Barbara@johnwrightmusic.co.uk tel: 01833 638826
Blazin' Fiddles at The Music Hall, Aberdeen
"Scotland’s award winning group, Blazin' Fiddles, draws the distinct flavour of fiddle music from various regions of the highlands and islands. From solo to ensemble sets, they all come together in a fiery blend that raises the roof."
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Saturday 6th September
The Southern Tenant Folk Union, The Cedars and The Dog Roses at The Betsy Trotwood, Clerkenwell, London
"Clerkenwell West – A tri level fest of Alt. Country, Cosmic Americana and Bluegrass"
Dave Arcari and Kris Dollimore at The Green Note Cafe, Camden, London
"Slide guitarist and songwriter Dave Arcari first appeared on the indie blues scene as frontman of alt.blues band Radiotones, which has three internationally-acclaimed albums under it’s belt. A series of shows with Alabama 3, Seasick Steve, Son of Dave and Jon Spencer and a tour in Estonia have now established Arcari as a formidable international solo performer and attracted a media reputation as a ‘hell-raising National guitar madman’.
Dave’s solo appearances are known for his hard-hitting gravel-laden vocals and slashing bottleneck steel guitar, which make for an aggressive, dynamic blues-based sound that owes as much to punk, rockabilly and trash country as pre-war Delta blues.
Kris Dollimore has played guitar for legendary English rock’n’roll band, The Godfathers, punk pioneers, The Damned, Scottish rockers, Del Amitri, and 80s idol, Adam Ant. But with his critically acclaimed, debut solo album, ‘02/01/1978’ he strikes deep into the heart of the blues. Blues Matters have described it as “an impressive, savage beast of an album, jammed with powerful, primal recordings the like of which you rarely hear in this country. This album is hard to fault and deserves to be a huge hit.”
Dervish at The Irish Cultural Centre, Hammersmith, West London
"It's now nearly 18 years since they first came together and with four of the original members still at the helm, Dervish are more in demand than ever. Their colourful career has taken them to every corner of the globe and has seen them share centre stage with such names as James Brown, The Buena Vista Social Club, Oasis, Sting, REM, Beck and many more.
Dervish are one of the most respected acts of modern time in World/Roots music worldwide. Their musical genius and innovative approach will ensure that they will be always be a leading force in Irish music bringing the world the joy and excitement and fun that is -traditional Irish music."
Fran McGillivray & Mike Burke at The Wrotham Arms, 9 Ramsgate Road, Broadstairs, Kent
Acoustic Folk Blues duo
The Bowerbirds at The Prince Albert, Brighton, Sussex
"With the interesting instrumentation, plaintive male-female vocal harmonies and varying arrangements, Moore's songs took on a rambling dimension that would be just as at home in an Eastern European gypsy encampment as they'd be on some rogue, restless pirate ship." "
Mawkin:Causley at Footlights, West Chiltington, Sussex
"Those wicked Essex rascals, Mawkin, have joined forces with the honey-voiced Jim Causley to form one hell of a boyband! One of the best instrumental outfits to emerge in recent years, Mawkin have a string of festival and concert apperances under their belt. Bringing Jim Causley on board is a master stroke, as his gorgeous baritone voice is the perfect foil for their cleverly textured tunes and energetic performances. A unique collaboration not to be missed."
Fiddle Day - Lead by Laura Cannell Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, Norfolk 10:00 - 4:00pm
"Tunes, harmonies & fiddling techniques. A one day workshop for all violin/fiddle players who want to learn new tunes from England and Europe and a great opportunity to meet other fiddle players. Suitable for intermediate or advanced players from the ages of 11."
Eliza Carthy at The Stables, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire
"Eliza Carthy is one of the most dazzling folk musicians of a generation. She divides her time between touring and recording with her legendary parents, Martin Carthy and Norma Waterson, and numerous pioneering solo and band projects. She has revitalised folk music and captured new audiences with her intelligent, charismatic and boundary-crossing performance."
Wild Willy Barrett's Sleeping Dogz at The LArts Centre Theatre, Victoria Avenue, Evesham, Worcestershire
"Featuring Wild Willy Barrett, Mary Holland and John Devine, this band play a fun mixture of music styles ranging from toe-tapping, foot- stomping fiddle and banjo, lively Irish jigs and reels on the pipes, to haunting melodies on guitar, cello and flute - all presented with a large dose of wry humour!"
Ron Trueman-Border at The March Hare, 63 Priors Dene Rd. Winchester, Hampshire
"Ron employs a wealth of musical forms and influences to produce songs that vividly portray an Everyman's vision of life in the 21st century" Steve Clarke
Reg Meuross and Phil Beer at Ashcroft Arts Centre, Ashcroft, Hampshire
'One of Britains finest Singer/Songwriters' - Time Out Magazine.
Rory Ellis at The Phoenix, Watergate Rd, Watergate Bay, near Newquay, TR8 4AB
Rory Ellis is one of those quintessential Australian singer songwriters with buckets of talent, heaps of stories to tell, and impossible to pigeonhole. He's got blues man in him, and some "soul-belter, red-dirt country, and home-grown folkie",Jeff Glorfeld The Age.
David Hughes at Farnsfield Acoustic, Farnsfield, Nottinghamshire
Singer Songwriter
Little Toby Walker at The Selby Arts Centre, Selby, North Yorkshire
“A unique and accomplished fingerstyle guitar virtuoso, Toby is adept at blues, rags and hot country picking and coaxes more out of a guitar than anyone could imagine. A skilled singer and songwriter as well, Toby draws inspiration from traditional and contemporary music creating something uniquely his own"
Dave Burland at The Davy Lamp Folk Club, Washington, Tyne & Wear
The Anna Massie Band at The Woodend Barn, Burn o' Bennie, Banchory, Aberdeenshire
"Anna Massie was the winner of the BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician of the Year 2003 Award. A talented multi-instrumentalist, she excels in playing the fiddle, mandolin and tenor banjo. Though perhaps most impressive is her guitar playing - equally at home either accompanying in her unique rhythmic style or flatpicking tunes, Massie’s dexterity shines through."
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Sunday 7th September
George Papavgeris at Folk on the Moor, Wotter, Devon
"rapidly gaining a reputation as one of the finest songwriters to have emerged in the last few years."
Singers/Musicians Night at Wheal Dream Folk Club, Wheal Dream Restaurant and Free House, Wendron, Helston, Cornwall
All Welcome
Singers Night at The Halfpenny Folk Club, Greyhound Inn, Oldwalls, Llanrhidian, Gower, South Wales
"Songs, tunes, poems, whatever, are all welcome. If you would rather listen than perform, then that's fine as well. Singer's nights are free."
Nancy Kerr & James Fagan at Walthamstow Folk Club, Walthamstow, East London
"This well-loved duo combine highly skilful and innovative performance with accessibility, warmth and stage presence. Rarely are duos so full in sound; Nancy’s earthy and exquisite fiddle and viola playing dances with the striking rhythmic texture of James’s guitar-bouzouki, while their rich singing both as soloists and in harmony evokes the stories of the songs they choose and write. They approach their music with energy and infectious smiles."
Growling Old Men at Twickenham Folk Club, Twickenham, West London
"The four members of (more) Growling Old Men will be very familiar to British bluegrass fans. The half-English, half-American quartet has toured twice in the UK and all four have taught at Sore Fingers at least once. Featuring Leon Hunt on banjo, Dom Harrison on bass, Ben Winship on mandolin and John Lowell on guitar, the band has now taken its act one step further and produced the recently released album, "Shuttle Diplomacy".
The history of the band stretches back quite some time. Leon and Dom have been working together for years as members of Daily Planet, and Ben and John have played together in various groups including Kane’s River and, of course, Growling Old Men. The collaboration between the two halves has been in the works since the late 1990s. This short tour coincides with their headlining appearance at the Didmarton Blueghrass Festival."
Croydon Folk and Blues Club at Ruskin House, 23 Coombe Road, Croydon, Surrey
"Everyone is welcome and musicians of all abilities are encouraged to "have a go" if they want to. The music usually starts at 8:30 with the regular sessions. An hour later there is a 'hotspot' which features a special guest. After the hotspot it's back to the regular session and the evening usually ends with the old favourite 'Goodnight Ireene Goodnight' featuring club organiser Garry Davis and his harmonica with other musicians and singers."
Ron Trueman-Border at The Seal, Hillfield Rd. Selsey, West Sussex
"Ron employs a wealth of musical forms and influences to produce songs that vividly portray an Everyman's vision of life in the 21st century" Steve Clarke
Folk Night at Mullens, Eastbourne, Sussex
Fran McGillivray & Mike Burke at The Star Inn, Star Road, Old Town, Eastbourne, Sussex
Acoustic Folk Blues duo
Gemma Hayes at Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, Norfolk
"A special acoustic tour from Mercury Music nominated Gemma Hayes, who combines her unmistakable crystalline vocals with steely guitar driven melodies. Her third album The Hollow Of Morning is awash with gentle strummed guitar and echoes of Gram Parsons, Emmy Lou Harris and perhaps even Nick Drake. She will be playing as a duo for this tour."
Wild Willy Barrett's Sleeping Dogz at Hitchin Folk Club, Hitchin, Hertfordshire
"This unique trio live on boats on the Grand Union canal, an environment which can't help but inspire and stimulate their creativity.
Their versatility is reflected in the number of instruments played between them, including guitar, fiddle, cello, banjo, balalaika, uilleann pipes, whistles, harmonium and djembe, producing a blend of highly emotive original music and arrangements."
Little Toby Walker at The Walnut Tree, Bilsworth, Northants
“A unique and accomplished fingerstyle guitar virtuoso, Toby is adept at blues, rags and hot country picking and coaxes more out of a guitar than anyone could imagine. A skilled singer and songwriter as well, Toby draws inspiration from traditional and contemporary music creating something uniquely his own"
Edwina Hayes at The Tap and Spile, 169-171 Spring Bank, Hull, East Yorkshire (6:00pm)
'A wonderful young woman, so gifted and full of song, with a voice as sweet as the angels' Nanci Griffith
Steve Turner at Traditions at The Tiger Folk Club, Long Eaton, Derbyshire
Steve Turner has been turning into one of this country's finest male singers and performers of folk-song [...] with him you can truly say that he has shown all the qualities of a great singer and interpreter of folk song. Swing 51, National Folk Magazine
Singers Night at Folk at the Manor, Wallasey, Wirral
"All singers and instrumentalists welcome
A host of musical talent from the local area and beyond.
Artists free entry - others £1."
The Southern Tenant Folk Union at The Grapes, Sheffield
"The smoothest, bluegrass tinged, measured acoustic country singing and playing you could wish for this side of the Atlantic."
Maverick
Jacqui McShees Pentangle at Eastgate Theatre & Arts Centre, Eastgate, Peebles, Scottish Borders
"The band which evolved from 'About Thyme', Jacqui McShee's Pentangle, is a five-piece consisting of Jacqui McShee (vocals), Spencer Cozens (keyboards), Gerry Conway (drums), Gary Foote (tenor and soprano saxophones) and Alan Thomson (bass and guitar). Thomson has previously recorded or toured with Robert Palmer, Rick Wakeman, Andy Summers, Bo Diddley, John Martyn. Julia Fordham, Steps Ahead and Peoplespeak. As well as the new material from 'About Thyme', the band's live performances include some brilliant new versions of old Pentangle favorites. These are not simply nostalgic re-plays but imaginative new arrangements. It's as if the songs have given birth to sons and daughters with a recognisable family likeness but personalities of their own."
Groanbox Boys at The Tall Ship, Glasgow
"There are acoustic-guitar- picking folk groups, there are accordion-pounding Gypsy troupes, there are harmonica-blowing blues combos and gourd-banjo-frailing world-music troubadours; there are even, probably, musicians who carry six-foot-high percussion sticks around with them. But -there is surely no musical partnership that brings all of the above together as bracingly as the Groanbox Boys." - Ben Chu, The Independent
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Monday 8th September
Cherish the Ladies at The Guildhall, St Ives, Cornwall
"Their music is passionate, tender and rambunctious - impossible not to enjoy.
The original all- female Irish traditional group combine first class playing, sensational singing, dynamic step dancing and infectious humour, packaged for the modern world but without ever losing respect for their musical roots.
The Grammy nominated musical ensemble have shared the stage with such noted entertainers as James Taylor, Joan Baez, Emmy Lou Harris, The Clancy Brothers, Tommy Makem, The Chieftains and dozens of symphony orchestras.
This could be one of the best nights of music you will ever hear – expect six women who are not only virtuoso musicians but also brimming with spirit, precision, wit and soul.
"...Only recently have Irish-American women challenged the male-dominated traditional music scene, and proven themselves capable of as much poetry, exuberance, and soul as the tradition requires. An outstanding ensemble..." Leslie Berman, The Village Voice
Caliko at The Beacon Folk Club, Tunbridge Wells, Kent
"In a style that blends the storytelling of traditional song with the honest, laid-back feel of acoustic roots music, Caliko’s coffeehouse folk recounts the extraordinary lives of ordinary people.
Expect songs about schoolfriends turned assassins, shaggers, shipwreckers and cross-dressing sailors in a performance stripped back to two voices, guitar and accordion."
Eileen Rose & The Holy Wreck at Maverick at Zebra, Maidstone, Kent
"The arrival of a forceful new talent whose day will surely come" Mojo Magazine.
"Makes you want to roar down the highway with the windows open and a finger on the repeat button!" Rolling Stone
"Almost as if Sheryl Crow had left her leather trousers at home one day, and decided to go properly rootsy on us. Straight from the opening track "$20 Shoes," you're ushered into a world of catchy melodies, clever wordplay, and choruses you can sing along to. Which is pretty much all you want from a singer / songwriter album. Ms Rose has a grit to her voice and an edge to her music that lifts it far out of the world of elevator music and into the realms of timeless musical elegance" blogcritics.org.
Hayes Carll at The Prince Albert, Brighton, Sussex
"Lost Highway recording artist - Hayes Carll is considered a main figure in the resurgence of Texas songwriters, writing in the Dylan-influenced tradition of Clark and Townes Van Zandt."
Kirsty McGee and Matt Martin at The Ravenswood, East Grinstead, Sussex
'shivering, hollering, edgy, dark, delightful, disturbing, involving, beautifully phrased, acoustic music' - the living tradition
Blackheart at Croydon Folk Song Club, Croydon, Surrey
“Blackheart are the most hard working act on the roots music scene, and that counts very highly.
With their Indigo album, Richard Pilkington and Chrissy Mostyn have put together an interesting
set of country-styled tunes that should make their growing fan base happy. Ultra catchy music
with a bit of country influence." Maverick Magazine
“Something fresh, something new - Blackheart must be listened to! Take the time, as I think you
will really enjoy this CD - I did and really liked it.” Mike Smith / Dave Clark Five
Ron Trueman-Border at Boston Folk Club, Boston, Lincolnshire
"Ron employs a wealth of musical forms and influences to produce songs that vividly portray an Everyman's vision of life in the 21st century" Steve Clarke
Martin Carthy and Dave Swarbrick at The City Varieties, Leeds
"Folk guitarist and singer Martin Carthy and virtuoso violin player Dave Swarbrick first became heroes of the British folk scene when they worked as an acoustic duo back in the 1960s, before Swarbrick went off to join the finest line-up of the hugely influential Fairport Convention.
There followed a period of ill health for Swarbrick, with a celebrated moment in 1999 when the Daily Telegraph ran a very premature obituary while Dave was ill in the hospital. With his usual good humour, Dave retorted, "It's not the first time I have died in Coventry."
In fact, he recovered, rekindled the relationship with Martin Carthy and, in 2007, they went on to win Best Duo in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.
When Martin Carthy broke onto the emerging folk scene in the early 1960s, he influenced many like minded musicians including Bob Dylan and Paul Simon (who recorded Strawberry Fair after hearing Martin's version). After meeting Swarbrick, the pair went on to record albums that have become classics in the English folk genre. Over time, Carthy decided to 'go electric' too as he joined Steeleye Span - one of the most poplar bands in the English folk-rock category. Among other awards, he has twice won Folk Singer of the Year at the BBC awards."
Groanbox Boys at The Leith Folk Club, Leith, Edinburgh
"There are acoustic-guitar- picking folk groups, there are accordion-pounding Gypsy troupes, there are harmonica-blowing blues combos and gourd-banjo-frailing world-music troubadours; there are even, probably, musicians who carry six-foot-high percussion sticks around with them. But -there is surely no musical partnership that brings all of the above together as bracingly as the Groanbox Boys." - Ben Chu, The Independent
Jacqui McShees Pentangle at The Inn at Lathones, St Andrews, Fife
"The band which evolved from 'About Thyme', Jacqui McShee's Pentangle, is a five-piece consisting of Jacqui McShee (vocals), Spencer Cozens (keyboards), Gerry Conway (drums), Gary Foote (tenor and soprano saxophones) and Alan Thomson (bass and guitar). Thomson has previously recorded or toured with Robert Palmer, Rick Wakeman, Andy Summers, Bo Diddley, John Martyn. Julia Fordham, Steps Ahead and Peoplespeak. As well as the new material from 'About Thyme', the band's live performances include some brilliant new versions of old Pentangle favorites. These are not simply nostalgic re-plays but imaginative new arrangements. It's as if the songs have given birth to sons and daughters with a recognisable family likeness but personalities of their own."
Back to Calendar
Tuesday 9th September
Martin Carthy and Dave Swarbrick at Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, Norfolk
"A legend in his own lifetime, Martin Carthy, teams up with fiddler Dave Swarbrick, skillfully mixing traditional material with contemporary interpretation and establishing a musical rapport that remains undiminished to this day."
Nancy Kerr & James Fagan at The Hoy at Anchor Folk Club, Leigh on Sea, Essex
"This well-loved duo combine highly skilful and innovative performance with accessibility, warmth and stage presence. Rarely are duos so full in sound; Nancy’s earthy and exquisite fiddle and viola playing dances with the striking rhythmic texture of James’s guitar-bouzouki, while their rich singing both as soloists and in harmony evokes the stories of the songs they choose and write. They approach their music with energy and infectious smiles."
Anthony John Clarke at Dartford Folk Club, Dartford, Kent
Singer Songwriter
Barrow Sessions at The Six Bells Pub, Barrow on Humber, North Lincolnshire
20.30 onwards, singers & musicians
Needleandthread open mic at The Half Moon, 10 Half Moon Lane, Herne Hill, London SE24 9HU
"free entrance, pub prices.. get down here and grab a drink, for an eclectic evening of musical and spoken performances, from some of south londons finest.. we have a large stage, a fat sound system, a professional sound engineer, and a nice chilled, responsive atmosphere.. get down early with your instruments / words to sign up to perform, as it can get quite busy.. or, of course, just come down, relax, and enjoy some great music!"
Kirsty McGee and Matt Martin at The Wilmington, Clerkenwell, London
'shivering, hollering, edgy, dark, delightful, disturbing, involving, beautifully phrased, acoustic music' - the living tradition
Acoustic Open Mike Night at The Good Intent, John Street, Rochester, Kent
Fred Wedlock at Ringwood Folk Club, The Elm Tree Hightown, Ringwood, Hampshire
"A very funny man who did an absolute blinder on his last visit.
The Oldest Swinger in Town' and at the same time 'The Folker'. 1980's Top Ten record Star. A great entertainer. His songs have been covered by Jasper Carrot & Little & Large among many. He is an experienced TV & Radio presenter & paid large sums as an after dinner speaker. Come along & have a good laugh."
The Hot Club of Cowtown at Sheffield City Hall, Sheffield
"The Hot Club of Cowtown has grown to be the most globe-trotting, hard-swinging Western Swing trio on the planet. From early days busking for tips in San Diego's Balboa Park, the band has grown and developed into a formidable international sensation. The Hot Club's ever-growing presence on the international festival scene has grown with it's relentless touring over the years alongside the release of five critically acclaimed CDs released in the USA, Japan and the UK."
Edwina Hayes at The Victoria Hotel, 39 Market Place, Hornsea, East Yorkshire
'A wonderful young woman, so gifted and full of song, with a voice as sweet as the angels' Nanci Griffith
Steve Tilston at Mansfield Folk Club, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
"Steve is of that rare breed of singer, songwriter and guitarist who actually excels in all departments" Froots
Wendy Arrowsmith at The Foggy Furze Folk Club, Traveller's Rest, Hartlepool, Cleveland
"Wendy Arrowsmith - tremendous song and what a voice and performance .I think we're destined to hear more of her voice and guitar - brilliant singer - a gem."
Steve Turner at Penicuik Folk Club, Penicuik Folk Club, Edinburgh
Steve Turner has been turning into one of this country's finest male singers and performers of folk-song [...] with him you can truly say that he has shown all the qualities of a great singer and interpreter of folk song. Swing 51, National Folk Magazine
Allan Johnston and Tom Napper at The Leith Folk Club, Leith, Edinburgh
"Right back to our roots with two well seasoned troubadors playing and singing a selection of traditional and original tunes. This is the way folk clubs were in the old days ...ah... the nostalgia!"
Jacqui McShees Pentangle at The Inn at Lathones, St Andrews, Fife
"The band which evolved from 'About Thyme', Jacqui McShee's Pentangle, is a five-piece consisting of Jacqui McShee (vocals), Spencer Cozens (keyboards), Gerry Conway (drums), Gary Foote (tenor and soprano saxophones) and Alan Thomson (bass and guitar). Thomson has previously recorded or toured with Robert Palmer, Rick Wakeman, Andy Summers, Bo Diddley, John Martyn. Julia Fordham, Steps Ahead and Peoplespeak. As well as the new material from 'About Thyme', the band's live performances include some brilliant new versions of old Pentangle favorites. These are not simply nostalgic re-plays but imaginative new arrangements. It's as if the songs have given birth to sons and daughters with a recognisable family likeness but personalities of their own."
Groanbox Boys at The Old Library, Kilbarchan, Renfrewshire
"There are acoustic-guitar- picking folk groups, there are accordion-pounding Gypsy troupes, there are harmonica-blowing blues combos and gourd-banjo-frailing world-music troubadours; there are even, probably, musicians who carry six-foot-high percussion sticks around with them. But -there is surely no musical partnership that brings all of the above together as bracingly as the Groanbox Boys." - Ben Chu, The Independent
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Wednesday 10th September
The Curst Sons at The Fox Goes Free, Charlton, nr Chichester, West Sussex
"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."
Folk Music Workshops at The Mick Jagger Centre, Dartford, Kent (7.45pm till 9.45pm)
Meet every Wednesday at the mjc 7.45pm to 9.45pm. Any instrument and experience welcome.
For more information call 01322 225567
Dave Ellis and Boo Howard at Faversham Folk Club, Faversham, Kent
"Intricate Guitar and Mellow Vocals"
Pete Coe at The Magpies Nest Folk Club, The Old Queen's Head, 44 Essex Road, Islington, London
"If you're talking about the British folk club scene of the 1970s, then the name of Pete Coe
will inevitably loom large. And if you're talking about the folk club scene of the '80s it'll loom
even larger. It's prominent in the '90s too and the way things are shaping up it's a name that
will continue to be synonymous with the grass roots scene through the early 2000s.
Singer, songwriter, melodeon, banjo, dulcimer and bouzouki player, bandleader, arranger,
broadcaster, dance caller, teacher, step dancer, entrepreneur, folk club organiser,
record label boss, sallow-faced wit, raconteur and all-round good guy, Pete Coe in
many ways represents the backbone of the modem folk revival."
Blues at The Green Note Cafe, Camden, London
"A monthly meeting of minds as some of London’s top musicians come together for an eclectic evening of blues and roots inspired jamming. House band The Velours welcome high standard players to join them on stage, and an ‘unplugged’ segment allows solo/duo acoustic types to do their thing too. From obscure 1920’s country pickin’ and Chicago style low down dirty shufflin’ all the way through to the most contemporary re-thinking of what ‘Blues’ can mean today, anything can happen on these nights, and usually does!”
Needleandthread presents the redstar open mic, The Redstar, 319 Camberwell Road, London
"with free entrance, live music, and two for one cocktails all night, it'll be a good one.. Live music celebrated in all its forms.. if you want to play, sign ups are from seven thirty pm.. bring your instruments, and play your own songs, to an appreciative audience.. or come be a part of the crowd! We welcome all styles.. spoken word, and acoustic acts are catered fully, with a nice sound system, monitoring, and sound engineer on hand.."
"CEOL AGUS OL" at The Nightingale Public House, 51 Nightingale Lane, Wanstead, East London E11 2EY
"An Evening of Traditional Irish Music every Wednesday evening from 8.30 - 11pm. All Session players welcome. Food available on the night.( 020 84530 4540 )."
Steven Finn at The Troubadour, Earl's Court, London (from 8:00pm)
'In this modern world it's not often you find songs so deeply cultivated in
the folk and roots tradition. Timeless, yet completely relevant, these are
songs you want to listen to again and again. As a performer, Steve doesn't
just let his songs speak for themselves (which he could), instead backing it
all up with crafted skill and dynamic delivery.' (Bristol Folk House review)
Reg Meuross and Phil Beer at The Unicorn Theatre, Checker Walk, Abbey Close, Abingdon, Oxfordshire
Meuross 'One of Britains finest Singer/Songwriters' - Time Out Magazine.
Kirsty McGee and Matt Martin at The Cellars, Eastney, Hampshire
'shivering, hollering, edgy, dark, delightful, disturbing, involving, beautifully phrased, acoustic music' - the living tradition
Barron Brady at Hambledon Folk Club, Hambledon, Hampshire
"Two young 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."
The Chain Gang at The Travellers Rest, Draycott, Derbyshire
Americana
Tradfest Irish session’ with Grace Kelly and Friends at Union Music Lounge, 845 Stockport Road, Levenshulme, Manchester
Acoustic/Folk Session at The Railway Hotel, Pleasington, Lancashire
Starts Around 8.30pm Till Midnight.A Talented Bunch Of Musicians Perform A Wide Variety Of Music Every Week Including, Irish, Lancs, Bluegrass, Blues, Jazz.
Mandolins.Banjos,Whistles.Harmonica,Bodhran.Fiddle,Guitars.
All Welcome Free Drink To Guest Musicians,Free Supper.Good Rail Links,Great Cask Beer.01254201520 For More Details
Lyra Celtica at The Crosskeys Inn Folk Club, Oldham, Gtr Manchester
“Lyra Celtica....good fun and quality music.” .......... Living Tradition
Dave Burland at Otley Folk Club, Otley West Yorkshire
The Hot Club of Cowtown at The National Centre for Early Music, York
"The Hot Club of Cowtown has grown to be the most globe-trotting, hard-swinging Western Swing trio on the planet. From early days busking for tips in San Diego's Balboa Park, the band has grown and developed into a formidable international sensation. The Hot Club's ever-growing presence on the international festival scene has grown with it's relentless touring over the years alongside the release of five critically acclaimed CDs released in the USA, Japan and the UK."
Singers and Musicians Night at Cottingham Live, The Back Room, 73 Hallgate, Cottingham, East Yorkshire
Groanbox Boys at The Courtyard, Kenmore, Perthshire
"There are acoustic-guitar- picking folk groups, there are accordion-pounding Gypsy troupes, there are harmonica-blowing blues combos and gourd-banjo-frailing world-music troubadours; there are even, probably, musicians who carry six-foot-high percussion sticks around with them. But -there is surely no musical partnership that brings all of the above together as bracingly as the Groanbox Boys." - Ben Chu, The Independent
Steve Turner at Aberdeen Folk Club, Aberdeen
Steve Turner has been turning into one of this country's finest male singers and performers of folk-song [...] with him you can truly say that he has shown all the qualities of a great singer and interpreter of folk song. Swing 51, National Folk Magazine
Back to Calendar
Thursday 11th September
Reg Meuross and Phil Beer at Bridport Arts Centre, Bridport, Dorset
Meuross 'One of Britains finest Singer/Songwriters' - Time Out Magazine.
Hayes Carll at St Bonadventures, Bristol
"Lost Highway recording artist - Hayes Carll is considered a main figure in the resurgence of Texas songwriters, writing in the Dylan-influenced tradition of Clark and Townes Van Zandt."
Bajaly Suso at Folk at The Royal Oak, Lewes, Sussex
"We are delighted to be able to present another outstanding kora playing and singing jali from The Gambia."
Singers and Musicians Night at Orpington Folk Club, Orpington, Kent
Lyra Celtica at The Travellers Rest Folk Club, Rising Sun in Twitton Lane, Otford, Near Sevenoaks, Kent
“Lyra Celtica....good fun and quality music.” .......... Living Tradition
Foghorn Leghorn and Mary Epworth and The Jubilee Band Upstairs at the Betsy Trotwood, 56 Farringdon Road, Clerkenwell, London
Bluegrass Night
The Whitetop Mountain Band at Islington Folk Club, Clerkenwell, London
"The Whitetop Mountain Band is a family-based band from the highest mountains of Virginia. Whitetop, Virginia is an area rich in the old time music tradition; this band has deep roots in mountain music. The members have done much to preserve the Whitetop region’s style of old time fiddling and banjo picking and are legendary musicians and teachers of the style.
At the same time, Whitetop Mountain Band shows are very versatile and entertaining containing everything from fiddle/banjo instrumentals to powerful solos and harmony vocals on blues, classic country, honky tonk, traditional bluegrass numbers, old timey ballads, originals, and four part mountain gospel songs."
Emit Bloch & The Richest Man In The Graveyard & friends at The Green Note Cafe, Camden, London
"Emit is the only artist i know who is simultaneously reinforcing and busting the idiom of traditional american country music" Martin Myers, Resonance FM
Martin Carthy and Dave Swarbrick at The Elgiva Theatre, Chesham, Buckinghamshire boxoffice@elgiva.com
01494 582900
"Folk guitarist and singer Martin Carthy and virtuoso violin player Dave Swarbrick first became heroes of the British folk scene when they worked as an acoustic duo back in the 1960s, before Swarbrick went off to join the finest line-up of the hugely influential Fairport Convention.
There followed a period of ill health for Swarbrick, with a celebrated moment in 1999 when the Daily Telegraph ran a very premature obituary while Dave was ill in the hospital. With his usual good humour, Dave retorted, "It's not the first time I have died in Coventry."
In fact, he recovered, rekindled the relationship with Martin Carthy and, in 2007, they went on to win Best Duo in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.
When Martin Carthy broke onto the emerging folk scene in the early 1960s, he influenced many like minded musicians including Bob Dylan and Paul Simon (who recorded Strawberry Fair after hearing Martin's version). After meeting Swarbrick, the pair went on to record albums that have become classics in the English folk genre. Over time, Carthy decided to 'go electric' too as he joined Steeleye Span - one of the most poplar bands in the English folk-rock category. Among other awards, he has twice won Folk Singer of the Year at the BBC awards."
Vikki Swan & Jonny Dyer at Stortfolk, Bishops Storford, Hertfordshire
"Currently taking the world by storm, Vicki and Jonny are rightly “establishing themselves as one of the best young duos around on the folk scene today” (Famous Willows Folk Club). Although best-known for their instrumental skills with Scottish Smallpipes, accordion and even Swedish Nyckelharpa, the duo are well recognised for their songs arrangements too. With their blend of traditional material and contemporary interpretations, they have developed a sound that is both familiar and fresh."
Annabelle Chovstek at The Ironworks, Oswestry, Shropshire
“A contemporary urban folk alchemist … a persuasive vocalist and multiinstrumentalist, with a natural style unpolluted by attention seeking postures.” Musicworkz, UK
Barron Brady at Newport Folk Club, Newport
"Two young 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."
Vin Garbutt at Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Harbour Drive, Cardiff
"One of the best known performers on the music scene today, Vin Garbutt has been working non-stop since 1969, touring all over the world and playing in virtually every part of Britain. An accomplished guitarist and whistle player, Vin is a great interpreter of traditional material and his own witty and powerful song writing often tackles thought-provoking issues. He’s also genuinely funny, and his quirky observations of life are always very much part of the act, delighting audiences everywhere."
"…unique performer who can sting consciences with his songs one minute, and undermine bladder control with his lunatic mirth, the next”. The Living Tradition
Kirsty McGee and Matt Martin at The Kitchen Garden Cafe, Kings Heath, Birmingham
'shivering, hollering, edgy, dark, delightful, disturbing, involving, beautifully phrased, acoustic music' - the living tradition
Mike Bennett and Sam Cornwall at The Crossroads Blue Club, The Tower of Song, Cotteridge, Birmingham
"Mark Bennett usually plays what is best described as 'laid back acoustic rock with a hint of blues and just a dash of jazz'. You can perhaps expect a little bit of cross over, but for this set the emphasis is very much on his first love, the blues.
A talented guitarist and singer, Sam's unique and entertaining approach to playing Blues and Gospel will leave you wondering just how he does it!"
George Papavgeris at The Tump Folk Club, Coombe Social Club, Brinklow Road, Coventry, West Midlands
The most prolific of creative men; the grandest of hearts and maker of songs that sear into the soul, George is unique, to say the least. His lilting accent lends a fantastic clarity to his delivery that is matched by deceptively simple guitar work. Few have written so many songs that demand your full attention and then insist, in the finest of ways, on staying with you forever. (Graham Searle)
George Papavgeris at The Tump Folk Club, Brinklow, Warwickshire
"rapidly gaining a reputation as one of the finest songwriters to have emerged in the last few years."
Rory McLeod at Bromsgrove Folk Club, Bromsgrove, West Midlands
"Orkney-based Rory McLeod has developed a stage act like no other with his 300mph rap folk delivery and his highly potent, original songs that fearlessly tackle everything from major social issues to the minutiae of everyday life."
Scolds Bridle at Gregson Lane Folk Club, Gregson Lane, Hoghton, Lancashire
Bella Hardy at The Black Swan Folk Club, York
"Bella's solo performances combine her mesmerising voice with intricate fiddle accompaniment to breath-taking effect."
Bandersnatch at The Topic Folk Club, Bradford
The Duncan McFarlane Band at The Trades Club, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire
'Essentially solid, energetic English electric folk, full of pumping riffs and loads of energy'
'It’s nice to find a folk-rock band that understands both folk AND rock and knows how to draw on one without diluting the other'
'Robust folk-rock - reels, jigs and stout songs, well-executed and infectiously lively'
The Hot Club of Cowtown at The Met, Bury
"The Hot Club of Cowtown has grown to be the most globe-trotting, hard-swinging Western Swing trio on the planet. From early days busking for tips in San Diego's Balboa Park, the band has grown and developed into a formidable international sensation. The Hot Club's ever-growing presence on the international festival scene has grown with it's relentless touring over the years alongside the release of five critically acclaimed CDs released in the USA, Japan and the UK."
Whitby Folk Club at The Friendship Rowing Club, Church Street, Whitby, North Yorkshire
Megson at Rothbury Roots, Rothbury, Northumberland
"Stu and Debbie wowed us with their phenomenal talents in 2007 - incredible voices, gorgeous harmonies, great guitar playing, and fantastic original songs. These are a must-see duo! Admission £7"
Little Toby Walker at The Fletcher Christian, Cockermouth, Cumbria
“A unique and accomplished fingerstyle guitar virtuoso, Toby is adept at blues, rags and hot country picking and coaxes more out of a guitar than anyone could imagine. A skilled singer and songwriter as well, Toby draws inspiration from traditional and contemporary music creating something uniquely his own"
Allan Taylor at The Star Folk Club, Glasgow
'Allan Taylor, the consummate performer, a writer of literary gracefulness whose troubadour chronicles encapsulate the realism of otherwise unsung heroes, otherwise uncharted lives. Few people can convey with such eloquence their life experiences. His songs are written from a lifetime of traveling; always the observer passing through, each song is a vignette of life, like a story told over a drink in a bar; characters come to life like people you know and places become as familiar as if you had been there. His songs have been recorded by more than a hundred other performers of various nationalities (there are more than sixty cover versions of his song “It’s Good to See You”, in ten different languages), proof enough that a concert by Allan Taylor will be an experience to remember. As Allan says at the beginning of each concert, “Sit back and enjoy the journey.”'
Groanbox Boys at The Acoustic Music Club, Kirkcaldy, Fife
"There are acoustic-guitar- picking folk groups, there are accordion-pounding Gypsy troupes, there are harmonica-blowing blues combos and gourd-banjo-frailing world-music troubadours; there are even, probably, musicians who carry six-foot-high percussion sticks around with them. But -there is surely no musical partnership that brings all of the above together as bracingly as the Groanbox Boys." - Ben Chu, The Independent
Tom Bliss at Crail Folk Club, The Golf Hotel, 4 High Street, Crail, Fife
"This guy has pretty well universal appeal - with his beautiful voice, his accomplished playing of several instruments and the range of his material. Tom’s songs are accessible and engaging, with humour and singable choruses, and he appeals to the traditionalists and the modernists alike. We are guaranteed a wonderful evening." Tom and Barbara Brown - Shammic Acoustic Sessions
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Friday 12th September
Kirsty McGee and Matt Martin at The Orange Street Music Club, Canterbury, Kent
'shivering, hollering, edgy, dark, delightful, disturbing, involving, beautifully phrased, acoustic music' - the living tradition
Groanbox Boys at The Tower Theatre, Folkestone, Kent
"There are acoustic-guitar- picking folk groups, there are accordion-pounding Gypsy troupes, there are harmonica-blowing blues combos and gourd-banjo-frailing world-music troubadours; there are even, probably, musicians who carry six-foot-high percussion sticks around with them. But -there is surely no musical partnership that brings all of the above together as bracingly as the Groanbox Boys." - Ben Chu, The Independent
The Hot Rats at The Angel, Addington Green, West Malling, Kent
"One of Southern England's most exciting Celt style folk/rock outfits" -Traditional Music Maker
Jacqui McShees Pentangle at The Mick Jagger Arts Centre, Dartford, Kent
"The band which evolved from 'About Thyme', Jacqui McShee's Pentangle, is a five-piece consisting of Jacqui McShee (vocals), Spencer Cozens (keyboards), Gerry Conway (drums), Gary Foote (tenor and soprano saxophones) and Alan Thomson (bass and guitar). Thomson has previously recorded or toured with Robert Palmer, Rick Wakeman, Andy Summers, Bo Diddley, John Martyn. Julia Fordham, Steps Ahead and Peoplespeak. As well as the new material from 'About Thyme', the band's live performances include some brilliant new versions of old Pentangle favorites. These are not simply nostalgic re-plays but imaginative new arrangements. It's as if the songs have given birth to sons and daughters with a recognisable family likeness but personalities of their own."
Steve Tilston at The Ram Folk Club, Claygate, Surrey
"He’s back, and with a brand new CD, Ziggurat! It’s taken 5 years but it is bursting with wonderful new songs - this time more personal and retrospective - and is one of his best. A Ram favourite, STEVE is a peerless song writer & guitarist in the true English tradition. Over the years the songs have burst forth like a perpetual fountain, digging deep into folklore, historical events, modern-day dilemmas and characters and encapsulating them into vignettes of melodic wonder. Songs about beat-up old trawlers, statesmen, gold-diggers, outlaws, thinkers, drinkers, metaphorical banjos and naked highwaymen that linger in the memory. Songs that have been much-covered by his peers and protégés and will continue to be. ‘Never a better born Englishman’ "
The Whitetop Mountain Band at The Bluegrass Plus Club, Coulsdon, Surrey
"The Whitetop Mountain Band is a family-based band from the highest mountains of Virginia. Whitetop, Virginia is an area rich in the old time music tradition; this band has deep roots in mountain music. The members have done much to preserve the Whitetop region’s style of old time fiddling and banjo picking and are legendary musicians and teachers of the style.
At the same time, Whitetop Mountain Band shows are very versatile and entertaining containing everything from fiddle/banjo instrumentals to powerful solos and harmony vocals on blues, classic country, honky tonk, traditional bluegrass numbers, old timey ballads, originals, and four part mountain gospel songs."
The Curst Sons at The Poyntz Arms, Walton Road, East Molesey, Surrey
"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."
Michael Roach at The Kalamazoo Klub, Crouch End, North London
"Michael Roach, one of thirteen children born to Ted and Sadie Roach of Washington, D.C., USA, sings and plays guitar in an East Coast style of blues dating back to the 1920s. After several years learning from well known figures John Jackson, John Cephas and Jerry Ricks, Michael Roach has developed his own style and is now an exceptional performer, interacting with his audience and entertaining as he plays.
Over the past 20 years, Michael has conducted numerous workshops throughout the USA and Europe. As a cultural arts performer, Michael has promoted African-American culture through the use of blues music. He has lectured for the Smithsonian Institute (USA), Oxford University (UK) and more recently at the University of Metz (France). In July 2004, he was involved in the organization of a conference held at the University of Gloucestershire (UK) called 'Overseas Blues – European Perspectives on African American Music'."
The Kittyhawks at The Green Note Cafe, Camden, London
"The KittyHawks are an American Old Time band based in the UK. Whilst their repertoire is rooted in traditional Old Time, some songs are contemporary and some are plucked from other musical styles and given an Old Time twist. All are interwoven with beautiful harmonies creating a heady mix of high and lonesome, gospel, and foot tapping stomps. An authentic sound of that good ol' mountain music...if you liked the sound track of the film ' Oh Brother Where Art Thou' then you'll love this band."
Uiscedwr at Cambridge Folk Club, Cambridge
"Uiscedwr is known as one of Britain's most exciting contemporary folk bands. Featuring fiddle, guitar, vocals and the most expertly played percussion you're ever likely to hear, Uiscedwr offer a fresh and original approach to folk, bringing an energy and virtuosity to their performances that gets people screaming for more."
Benji Kirkpatrick supported by Navaro at Berkhamsted Civic Centre, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire (Ticket info from andy.stayinbed@hotmail.com or call Andy on 01442 211578)
"Described by Time Out as a 'fretboard wizard ', Benji Kirkpatrick is a gifted guitar player and an engaging and experienced performer. Over the decade or so that he has been working on the folk scene, he has honed a distinctive style which has rare energy."
Beth Navaro's country sound now evolves into something new as she joins forces with singer / songwriters Pete White and Steve Austin. Expect to hear Beth's rootsy past, Pete's flair for anthemic melodies and Steve's love of American and British folk all finding their place in the NAVARO mix. The trio describe themselves as a 'singer's collective' where vocal duties are shared and combined as and when the song requires.
Ken Nicol and Phil Cool at The Castle Hall, Hertford, Hertfordshire
"Ken & Phil perform their own music and songs with a little bit of mirth for good measure.
A special evening of entertainment from two very distinctive artists.....
Phil Cool and Ken Nicol have joined forces to present a unique evening of entertainment which will appeal to a wide range of audiences. Both are extremely experienced artists each with their own rich background of performing success."
Annabelle Chovstek at The Forest Arts Centre, New Milton, Hampshire
“A contemporary urban folk alchemist … a persuasive vocalist and multiinstrumentalist, with a natural style unpolluted by attention seeking postures.” Musicworkz, UK
Dan Mckinnon at The Bodmin Folk Club, Bodmin, Cornwall
"McKinnon has a talent for telling tales of life — its challenges and its beauty — in a poignant fashion which the audience can identify with.” (Cheryl Turner, Rambles Magazine)
The Kontra Roots Club at The White Horse, Woodford, near Kettering, Northamptonshire
Top quality acoustic roots showcase in an ideal venue, featuring established or up and coming acts drawn from many musical genres. This month's guests: SOY UN CABALLO - wonderful Belgian duo create subtle, delicate music that charms & beguiles.; DAVID FRANCIS - 1st rate singer songwriter from New York. Wise & classy songs with impeccable pop instincts; THE OLD GREY DOGS - rousing veteran bluegrass duo, who play with passion & panache. 8.00 start, admission free.
Bob Fox at The Woodman Folk Club, Kingswinford, West Midlands
"Fox always was one of the scene's superior singers and his voice is as confident and ebullient as it ever was ." Froots
The John Richards Band at The Chase Folk Club, Burntwood, Staffordshire
"Fine contemporary acoustic music with added bite from one of the scene’s best songwriters.
The Band plays trademark tight arrangements of John’s original songs, songs that refuse to be ignored.
Fine songs, fine singing, umbilical harmonies, and outstanding musical interplay add up to one of the most exciting new bands around."
Cherish the Ladies at Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan, Ceredigion
"Their music is passionate, tender and rambunctious - impossible not to enjoy.
The original all- female Irish traditional group combine first class playing, sensational singing, dynamic step dancing and infectious humour, packaged for the modern world but without ever losing respect for their musical roots.
The Grammy nominated musical ensemble have shared the stage with such noted entertainers as James Taylor, Joan Baez, Emmy Lou Harris, The Clancy Brothers, Tommy Makem, The Chieftains and dozens of symphony orchestras.
This could be one of the best nights of music you will ever hear – expect six women who are not only virtuoso musicians but also brimming with spirit, precision, wit and soul.
"...Only recently have Irish-American women challenged the male-dominated traditional music scene, and proven themselves capable of as much poetry, exuberance, and soul as the tradition requires. An outstanding ensemble..." Leslie Berman, The Village Voice
Pete Abbot at Chesterfield Folk Club, Chesterfield, Derbyshire
"Pete Abbott has extraordinary talent as a singer, a songwriter and guitarist which ensures a wonderful evening's entertainment."
Martin Carthy and Dave Swarbrick at The Rock at Maltby, Wesley Centre, Rotherham, South Yorkshire
"Folk guitarist and singer Martin Carthy and virtuoso violin player Dave Swarbrick first became heroes of the British folk scene when they worked as an acoustic duo back in the 1960s, before Swarbrick went off to join the finest line-up of the hugely influential Fairport Convention.
There followed a period of ill health for Swarbrick, with a celebrated moment in 1999 when the Daily Telegraph ran a very premature obituary while Dave was ill in the hospital. With his usual good humour, Dave retorted, "It's not the first time I have died in Coventry."
In fact, he recovered, rekindled the relationship with Martin Carthy and, in 2007, they went on to win Best Duo in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.
When Martin Carthy broke onto the emerging folk scene in the early 1960s, he influenced many like minded musicians including Bob Dylan and Paul Simon (who recorded Strawberry Fair after hearing Martin's version). After meeting Swarbrick, the pair went on to record albums that have become classics in the English folk genre. Over time, Carthy decided to 'go electric' too as he joined Steeleye Span - one of the most poplar bands in the English folk-rock category. Among other awards, he has twice won Folk Singer of the Year at the BBC awards."
The Devil's Violin at The Selby Arts Centre, Selby, North Yorkshire
“Storyteller Daniel Morden joins forces with three star musicians to perform long forgotten Gypsy tales accompanied by music borne from the passion and energy of the Gypsy tradition. A dynamic melding of traditional music and story, celebrating the culture of the Roma."
The Lancashire Hotpots at The Met, Bury
"Comedy band The Lancashire Hotpots combine Lancashire folk music with hilarious observations on contemporary life, singing songs about sat navs, online dating and goth music in traditional northern washboard style."
The Hot Club of Cowtown at The Sage, Gateshead
"The Hot Club of Cowtown has grown to be the most globe-trotting, hard-swinging Western Swing trio on the planet. From early days busking for tips in San Diego's Balboa Park, the band has grown and developed into a formidable international sensation. The Hot Club's ever-growing presence on the international festival scene has grown with it's relentless touring over the years alongside the release of five critically acclaimed CDs released in the USA, Japan and the UK."
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Saturday 13th September
Papa Truck at The Green Note Cafe, Camden, London
"Part of a new crop of talented UK bluegrass bands such as Baker's Fabulous Boys, The Cedars and the Thunderbridge Bluegrass Boys, Papa Truck are riding the wave of a surge in poularity, as more people discover their charms. The band's critically acclaimed debut album is a great indication of why this is so, full of upbeat songs, fine picking and harmony vocals.
Their live performances are also renowned for their entertainment value and musicianship, leaving everyone with a smile on their lips. Songs are written by Martin Selman (guitar, mandolin, vocals) and Dan Abram (banjo, vocal-singular) with Sparkie (double bass, vocals) and Ryan Quartermaine (guitar, vocals)."
Comas at The Irish Cultural Centre, Hammersmith, West London
"Comas, one of Europe's most sensational Celtic bands, brings together, from all over the globe, four of the most exciting musicians of their generation including. Irish champion fiddle-player extraordinaire,- Aiden Burke, Sylvian Barou (who Donal Lunny calls ‘the greatest flute player ever’!), percussionist - Jackie Moran, and guitarist - Philip Masure. "
Bag of Rats at Minehead Beer Festival, Minehead West Railway Station,
Somerset 8:30pm
"One of the great beer fest venues of the year, on the platform at Minehead station, just step of the train straight into the festival. c100 beers + ciders from local and countrywide microbreweries available, fest specials, Food all sessions, entertainment Sat eve "
Moveable Feast at The Wrotham Arms, Broadstairs, Kent
Moveable Feast are a dynamic and versatile band playing in a wide variety of styles.
Ron Trueman-Border at The Kent Cricketers, High St. Hawkhurst, Kent
"Ron employs a wealth of musical forms and influences to produce songs that vividly portray an Everyman's vision of life in the 21st century" Steve Clarke
Kit Holmes at The Quay Theatre, Sudbury, Suffolk
"a singer/songwriter and rising guitar star. Her music fuses a broad range of influences from pop to folk, blues and soul. Kit's latest album, Catch The Echo, which features the legendary double bass player Danny Thompson was given a 5 Star Review by Maverick. Kit’s music has been played on both the Bob Harris and Andy Kershaw Show and she was recently asked to give a master-class at Paul McCartney’s LIPA."
''Full of warmth…an absolute delight"
Annabelle Chovstek at The Ashcroft Arts Centre, Fareham, Hampshire
“A contemporary urban folk alchemist … a persuasive vocalist and multiinstrumentalist, with a natural style unpolluted by attention seeking postures.” Musicworkz, UK
James Hollingsworth at The Running Horse, 38 Bridge Street, Leatherhead, Surrey
"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
Jacqui McShees Pentangle at The Arts Centre, Swindon, Wiltshire
"The band which evolved from 'About Thyme', Jacqui McShee's Pentangle, is a five-piece consisting of Jacqui McShee (vocals), Spencer Cozens (keyboards), Gerry Conway (drums), Gary Foote (tenor and soprano saxophones) and Alan Thomson (bass and guitar). Thomson has previously recorded or toured with Robert Palmer, Rick Wakeman, Andy Summers, Bo Diddley, John Martyn. Julia Fordham, Steps Ahead and Peoplespeak. As well as the new material from 'About Thyme', the band's live performances include some brilliant new versions of old Pentangle favorites. These are not simply nostalgic re-plays but imaginative new arrangements. It's as if the songs have given birth to sons and daughters with a recognisable family likeness but personalities of their own."
Groanbox Boys at The Square and Compass Worth Matravers, Swanage, Dorset
"There are acoustic-guitar- picking folk groups, there are accordion-pounding Gypsy troupes, there are harmonica-blowing blues combos and gourd-banjo-frailing world-music troubadours; there are even, probably, musicians who carry six-foot-high percussion sticks around with them. But -there is surely no musical partnership that brings all of the above together as bracingly as the Groanbox Boys." - Ben Chu, The Independent
Little Toby Walker at The Drewe Arms
Drewsteington, Exeter, Devon
“A unique and accomplished fingerstyle guitar virtuoso, Toby is adept at blues, rags and hot country picking and coaxes more out of a guitar than anyone could imagine. A skilled singer and songwriter as well, Toby draws inspiration from traditional and contemporary music creating something uniquely his own"
Open Night with Dan McKinnon at Shammick Acoustic Sessions, The Castle Inn, High Street, Combe Martin, North Devon
“An award-winning singer, guitarist and songwriter hailing from the Canadian Maritimes, an area rich in the musical and cultural traditions of the North Atlantic. His warm baritone voice, superb guitar arrangements and original compositions have won this native Nova Scotian widespread praise."
Homesick - A festival of spirit of place at The Festival Theatre @ the Cambridge Buddhist Centre, 38 Newmarket Road, Cambridge
A unique day festival with talks, story-telling, folk song on the theme of connection with the English landscape.
Afternoon lectures include a talk on William Blake's visions of London by author Robin Cooper, and a slide show on the English neo-Romantic painters and film makers such as Paul Nash and Michael Powell by author Peter Woodcock.
Evening event includes On Common Ground a performance about the life of the poet John Clare by the renowned folk musicians and storytellers Hugh Lupton and Chris Wood.
Tickets: afternoon (3.00 & 4.30) £7/£5
evening (7.30) £10/£8
whole event £15/£13
Tickets available from the Cambridge Arts Theatre 01223 503333
Peter Knight's (Steeleye Span) Musicians Masterclass at Lower Oddington Village Hall, Nr. Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire
Peter Knight's gigspanner at Lower Oddington Village Hall, Nr. Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire
""Gigspanner's improvisations around traditional and original compositions are a rare fusion of the inspirational and intelligent with the amazingly accessible."
Stroke Association fundraising CEILIDH at Wymondham Village Hall, Wymondham, Leicestershire, LE14 2AB
Dancing to "Flower of the Thorn".
Tickets cost £6 in advance or £7 on the door and are available from 01572-787489 or via jackiewilsonx@btinternet.com.
There will be a licensed bar, raffle and free nibbles.
Jackie Wilson (Wymondham's intrepid explorer) is trekking in Peru for the Stroke Association and needs to raise £2,850 in sponsorship. All proceeds from the Ceilidh will go towards this target.
The Holy Maggots at Catherine's Church, Outwood Rd., Heald Green, Stockport, Gtr Manchester 7:30pm
Acoustic folk/early music
Free (donations to St Ann's Hospice)
Tania Opland & Mike Freeman at Birdsedge Live @ Birdsedge Village Hall, Penistone Road, Birdsedge, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire (Concerts and Fun-Percussion and vocal, instrument workshops - Tickets Workshop £10 Concert £7.00 - Ticket for both £15.00 from
01484 606230)
Glorious singing, multitudinous instruments and eclectic songs "Tania and Mike... are definitely a partnership made in heaven. They are quite simply one of the most original and interesting musical combinations you're ever likely to see! Between them they weave a fascinating musical tapestry." - Chester Folk Festival.
Hamered dulcimer, guitar, violin, cittern, Native American flute, hand
percussion... with songs in many languages and rhythmic roots from Siberia to Morocco. This Anglo-Alaskan duo have been on the road
together since May '95 in a unique collaboration which combines their distinctly separate musical backgrounds, bringing their exuberant music and wild tales to audiences around the world.
The Duncan McFarlane Band at Driffield Village Hall, Driffield, East Yorkshire
'Essentially solid, energetic English electric folk, full of pumping riffs and loads of energy'
'It’s nice to find a folk-rock band that understands both folk AND rock and knows how to draw on one without diluting the other'
'Robust folk-rock - reels, jigs and stout songs, well-executed and infectiously lively'
Bella Hardy at The Davy Lamp Folk Club, Washington, Tyne & Wear
"Acclaimed singer Bella Hardy, twice nominated in the BBC Folk Awards 2008, has a voice decribed as 'mesmerising' and 'faultless'. This is her first guest appearance at the Davy Lamp and she’ll be accompanied by the wonderful Chris Sherburn on concertina."
Dick Gaughan at The Warehouse, Lossiemouth, Moray
"A troubadour, a stunning singer, passionate songwriter and a guitarist with a dazzling technique, Dick has been at the cutting edge of Scottish music for almost four decades. He has been a member of Boys of the Lough, Five Hand Reel and founded and produced the short-lived but quite extraordinary ensemble Clan Alba. Well known for his forthright and long-held political views, the legendary Dick Gaughan just doesn’t do gigs which are ‘ordinary’."
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Sunday 14th September
Jim Reynolds at The Green Note Cafe, Camden, London
"Jim Reynolds' performances are always an unexpected delight — the result of many years on the professional circuit. His reportoire consists of, for the most part, his own songs and exhilarating guitar instrumentals, subtly interwoven with classics from the very best blues, ragtime and old-fashioned romantic ballads."
Debby McClatchy at Walthamstow Folk Club, Walthamstow, East London
"wonderful performer with a magnificent repertoire of old-timey material. Her combination of goodtime, old-time banjo, glorious singing- with occasional outbreaks of mountain fiddling and freestyle Appalachian stepping make for an unmissable evening."
Christine Collister at The Half Moon, Putney, West London
'Christine Collister has a killer voice. As full as Dusty Springfield or as blue as Alison Moyet' - FRoots
Groanbox Boys at The Grey Horse, Kingston, Surrey
"There are acoustic-guitar- picking folk groups, there are accordion-pounding Gypsy troupes, there are harmonica-blowing blues combos and gourd-banjo-fr
