absolutely incredible BBC Woman's Hour a voice of milk and honey Anais Mitchell Chloe Matharu is a multi Award winning Scottish Indian singer songwriter and harpist from the West Coast of Scotland. Many of her songs draw on her time as a Navigational Officer in the Merchant Navy, inspired by the natural world as experienced at sea. On tour she performs solo with her harp in Scots and English. Her music offers "an intriguing insight into a new tradition of maritime folk music with thoughtful song writing embellished by her voice and superb harp playing" - The Herald. An internationally touring artist, performances have included Celtic Connections, Cambridge Folk Festival, Edinburgh Fringe and Melbourne Celtic Festival. In 2022 she received Celtic Music Radio's Album of the Year for her debut album, Small Voyages, and was selected for the WOMEX awarded Global Music Match. 2023 saw her awarded a Danny at Celtic Connections; a Live Music Award at Greenock Telegraph Community Awards; and nominations for the Wales Folk Awards ; Scots Singer of the Year in MG Alba Trad Awards; and was one of five finalists in the Canadian Goderich Emerging Artist Showcase. Press highlights include playing live on BBC Radio Four Woman's Hour, BBC Scotland TV News, and interviews on BBC Radio Scotland's The Afternoon Show and ABC Melbourne. This October she releases her anticipated second album, Sailors and Rolling Stones, followed by tours of the UK, US and Australia. Chloe lives on her family run Alpaca and Goat Trekking centre. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Indie-folk singer, songwriter, guitarist and producer Josienne Clarke is often said to draw on traditional British folk inspirations, but is a thoroughly modern, multifaceted artist who follows her own compass.

Singer and guitarist, Jack Badcock is a hugely experienced performer, having toured throughout Europe, North America, Asia and Australia, predominantly as frontman and founding member of his multi-award winning, internationally renowned world-folk band 'Dallahan'. He is a critically acclaimed solo artist and has also performed or recorded with Rura, Siobhan Miller, Adam Holmes, Dougie MacLean and The Royal Scottish National Orchestra among many others and was a finalist in the BBC Young Traditional Musician of the Year Award. His career has seen him perform at some of the world's most prestigious folk music events including Tønder Festival (DK), Festival Ortigueira (ES), Celtic Connections, (SCO) Woodford Folk Festival (AUS), Milwaukee Irish Fest (USA), Festival Dranouter (BE) and countless others. Raised in Co. Kilkenny, Ireland and later Yorkshire, England, before moving to Scotland as a teenager, Jack has a split national identity shared between the three countries. At eighteen, in Edinburgh, he formed a partnership with multi-instrumentalist Ciaran Ryan, touring the UK, Germany and Denmark. The duo would go on to form Dallahan in 2013, which rapidly became one of Scotland's busiest international folk bands. To date the band have recorded four critically acclaimed albums, earned several awards and many nominations and toured extensively on four continents. Having previously sung mostly original interpretations of traditional songs, In 2020, Jack began writing original songs, initially incorporating them into Dallahan's music before beginning to write and release solo recordings. In 2021, he released his debut solo EP, The Driftwood Project. Funded by Creative Scotland, the EP was drip-released throughout the year and showcased a plethora of musical influences and outlooks, featuring a large lineup of some of Scotland's most accomplished instrumentalists from the jazz, classical and folk worlds. It was nominated for Original Work of the Year (Sponsored by PRS) at the BBC Scots Trad Music Awards 2021. He was then invited to write, arrange and perform the prestigious New Voices commission at Celtic Connections 2022 with a show of all-new original material with a six-piece band. In Autumn 2023, Jack went on tour throughout the UK as the support act for Eddi Reader, finely honing his solo live show in the process, before also performing on a lengthy tour in Germany the following year. He then released his critically acclaimed debut album Cosmography, in May 2024 and launched it on a 16 date tour throughout England and Scotland the same month. The album, produced by Euan Burton (Kris Drever, Julie Fowlis) has been described by critics as a glowing galaxy of songs and affirmed Jack as a first class songwriter. Jack Badcock is a singer whose solo material reveals an astute songcraft exploring enormously wide ranging subjects delivered with a musical sensitivity clearly influenced by American folk, funk and soul music as much as the traditional music of Britain and Ireland and all served with a healthy dose of storytelling and humour. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

From the harmonious Heartlands of Scotland and the musical metropolis of Melbourne, Australia, Good Guy Hank bring all of the heartbreak, joy and everything in-between with blistering bluegrass country guitar, lightning mandolin, virtuoso fiddle playing and three part harmonies galore! Influences range from Hank Williams and Elbow to Lucinda Williams, Gillian Welsh, Drive by Truckers. Good Guy Hank are: Guitar & Vocals: Theo Barnard of Scotland's much lauded hell-raising band of bluegrass desperados Wire & Wool. Fiddle, Mandolin & Vocals: Pepita Emmerichs of Australian indie-pop sensations Oh Pep! Guitar & Vocals: Donny McElligott of Scottish Americana outfit The New Madrids Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Ohio Balladeer & Story Writer Austin Stambaugh, is enriched with an authenticity that is magnetically keen. A modern pioneer of folk storytelling, his work has been called Timeless and nuanced, by Lilly Hiatt who wrote, enjoy with the lights low. Folk singer Tim Easton wrote, Austin Stambaugh is the best flatpicking songwriter you've never heard of, and Ill stand on Steve Earle's coffee table in my Redwing boots and say it. Stambaugh's aesthetic is derived from his fascination with plain spoken speech, timeless standards, and terrifying compositions that hold a listener in suspense. His artistry is displayed in his highly acclaimed studio album Midwest Supernatural (2023). Co produced by Benjamin Tod of Lost Dog Street Band, the record resonates with critics and fans alike and led to collaborations with seminal modern folk archive Western AF, as well as supporting Benjamin Tod & Lost Dog Street Band on tour. The following spring of '24, Austin released electric visions of live recordings with his band The Electric Weepers. Elusive and shadowy, heavy and aloof, their debut document Way Down Here On Earth (2024) is released to East Nashville's independent punk label Anti-Corp Records, and is the premier model of the obscure country music sound that stems from the northeast Ohio region. Originally from northeast Ohio, he is now located in Nashville, TN, where he is busy writing and recording records. When not fronting his band The Electric Weepers he performs solo for audiences both regionally and internationally with a Martin D-35 uniquely his own. "Austin Stambaugh tells true American stories with the power of Kerouac and the wonder of Huck Finn." - Paul Kerr Americana UK "Austin Stambaugh is the premiere spoken word songwriter of our time." - Noel McKay Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the café counter are always very much appreciated.

Get ready to be captivated by the mesmerizing music of Samuel Moore, the award winning flamenco guitarist. With his exceptional talent and mastery of flamenco, Samuel will transport you to the heart of Spain in this performance. Whether you are a dedicated flamenco fan or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, this event promises to be unforgettable!

The Weaving is Méabh Begley (accordion, vocals) and Owen Spafford (fiddle) and Cait NiRiain (piano, vocals). This trio brings together the rich musical traditions of three countiesKerry, Tipperary and Yorkshire, their three regions of origin. Méabh Begley is a singer, songwriter and musician whose musical expression and stylings are deeply rooted within the Irish music, language and song tradition of her homeplace of Corca Dhuibhne, the Gaeltacht of West Kerry, Ireland. A native Irish speaker, Méabh was born into the renowned musical family of the Begleys whose undeniable influence has helped in shaping her energetic instrumental playing, emotive and sensitive singing style as well as inspired her development of, and transition into her passion for composing and songwriting. Méabh has enjoyed a full time career in traditional Irish music thus far and has performed both nationally and internationally in countries such as Japan, Taiwan, America, Canada, Russia and across Europe with groups such as acclaimed Irish band Téada, The Pure Irish Drops (The Women of Ireland- The Next Generation), Cuas, Catherine Young Dance, Irish Christmas in America and Aisling An Ród Romhainn directed by Darach Mac an Iomaire. Owen Spafford is a fiddle player and composer from Leeds. Owen has performed for the leaders of the commonwealth states, toured with Giffords Circus and has received a scholarship to study composition at the Royal Academy of Music. Owen is also an All-Britain Fiddle Champion in the Fleadh Cheoil na Breataine, BBC Young Composer Competition nominee and has studied with Sam Amidon and John Dipper. Equally at home in a traditional session as he is in a free improvisation workshop, Spafford's understanding of the oral tradition and love for vernacular music from around the world enables an inventive and thoughtful fiddle style. In 2022 Owen released a debut album with guitarist Louis Campbell which Martin Hayes described as a beautiful, moody and tasteful recording that defies classification. The arrangements and playing are truly subtle and the sounds are pristine. Cáit Ní Riain is a traditional singer, multi instrumentalist, and folklorist from Upperchurch in Co. Tipperary. She grew up in the world renowned music pub, Jim of the Mills, where she was deeply influenced by the constant stream of musicians and singers that came from near and far, gaining a deep appreciation for her own culture and its place and relevance in the world. She studied music and Irish in University College Cork where she was awarded the Quercus scholarship for receiving the highest results in the arts department. She also received the Donal Doc Gleeson award for excellence in musical performance. Cáit continued her studies in the National Folklore Collection in University College Dublin, where she completed her MA thesis on the songs and associating folklore in North Tipperary, being awarded the Máire Mac Néill scholarship for excellence in research. Cáit has received medals in the All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil na hireann for both traditional singing in English and in Irish. She has performed and collaborated alongside various artists, musicians, singers, and ensembles for many years in Ireland and further afield in the United States and Europe. Cáit is currently working on her first album of traditional songs. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

With haunting harmonies and intricate guitar work, Last Birds music is steeped in early country folk yet reflective of modern life. Using their small Canadian prairie town as a backdrop, Mike Davis and Lindsay Arnold weave together rural legends and current day experiences to form a modern prairie gothic. Their songs veer away from overly romanticized views of small town life to peer into the dark corners of the local bar, peek in the windows of the abandoned house down the street and pine for something or someone beyond the veil. Their two voices, two guitars approach to live performances creates a storytelling experience sure to silence the room. Mike and Lindsay released their first full length album, Endless Turn of Day into Night, in October of 2023. The recordings are simple and direct, featuring the couple's close vocal harmonies. Despite its humble roots, the self-produced album received international attention and praise. Paul Russel of Americana UK wrote: This is a great album it has strong songwriting, gorgeous harmonies, incredible guitar playing and a feeling this duo worked really hard to get it to sound so intimate and immersive that in the end you want to snuggle up to it. The album was featured on several Best of lists including Americana Highways' Best Albums of 2023. The album won Alternative Country Album of the Year at the 2024 Saskatchewan Country Music Awards. The duo was nominated for multiple awards in 2021 and 2022, including a Saskatchewan Music Award for Roots/Folk Artist of the year as well as Saskatchewan Country Music Association's Group and Alternative Country Album of the Year. Their debut EP, released in April 2021, was well received and reached #1 on Kansas Public Radio while spending several weeks on the Roots Music Report charts for Top Folk Album and Top Canadian Folk Album. Last Birds live in the tiny village of North Portal, Saskatchewan with their young daughter in a house they built with their own hands. Mike and Lindsay acknowledge that their home in Saskatchewan is on Treaty 2 land, which is the traditional territory of the Nakota, Nehiyaw/Cree, Nahkawe/Saulteaux,Dakota and the traditional homeland of the Métis. Their vocal harmonies are tight and true throughout, and the production is wonderfully understated - George Graham The Graham Album Review Mike Davis and Lindsay Arnold, aka Last Birds, have proven, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that they can compose and perform folk music of the highest order. - Scott Roos North Sask Music Zine This is a great album it has strong songwriting, gorgeous harmonies, incredible guitar playing and a feeling this duo worked really hard to get it to sound so intimate and immersive that in the end you want to snuggle up to it. - Paul Russell Americana UK The dynamic couple has produced a beautifully crafted, dusky album that illuminates the shadows that lurk in a small community. - Ashton Istace North Sask Music Zine There's an intimacy in the recording and an expressiveness in the acoustic guitar that works really well. In fact, theyre kind of a combination of the Civil Wars and a lot of the haunting chord work that makes the Milk Carton Kids so popular. This is an incredible band with an intriguing, intimate recording style. - Greg Jones Ear To The Ground Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

boci is a Bradford-born, Bristol-based violinist, songwriter, and vocalist, known for her pure, emotive voice and her ability to craft ethereal alt-folk soundscapes. With a unique blend of classical training and expressive, improvisational violin playing, she creates intricate, evolving layers of sound through live-looping, building cinematic textures that unfold in real-time. Drawing inspiration from traditional European folk styles, boci's violin becomes a powerful voice in her music, delivering both emotional depth and unrestrained creativity. Her work is deeply rooted in her love for nature, particularly the landscapes of Scotland, Wales, and the Lake District, which inspire much of her songwriting. boci's debut album, we are each other, this will set us free (2022), was a raw exploration of personal transformation through grief and the healing power of universal connection. The album, which reflects her deep gratitude for the peace and unity found in nature, received widespread praise from outlets such as Songlines (''''), BBC 6 Music (described as "disarmingly fresh and life-affirming"), and BBC Introducing. Its release was followed by two successful headline UK tours, selling out venues across the country. Now, boci is touring her sophomore album, scenes from uniXiaa concept album that transports listeners to a distant, dreamlike world. Recorded in Stroud with producer Rob Pemberton (The Staves, Maja Lena), the album features contributions from some of Bristol's finest musicians, including t l k and Archie Churchill-Moss. Each track serves as a musical portrait, capturing a moment or scene from a journey through the mystical realm of uniXia. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

With a voice like complex coffee, Gráinne Hunt enchants audiences with her heart- melting vocals and emotional songs, making her a standout among Ireland's vocalists and songwriters. Her two original records, delve into personal experiences, evoking pain and longing, and comparisons have been drawn to Tracy Chapman, Natalie Merchant, and Dolores Keane. Gráinne's latest original album This Secret (2019 was recorded in Nashville, with Grammy nominated Thomm Jutz) - she writes from a powerful place with lyrics that tell of pain, hurt, desire, all the hallmarks of scarred relationships making her truth resonate with her listeners. Her music feels like a cathartic expression that has enabled her to move on, move forward. A natural performer, Grainne Hunt commands an astounding voice that will melt your heart. No crowd can resist. Declan ORourke Songwriter, Author She's shared stages with Glen Hansard and U2, has opened for Gladys Knight, Mary Black, and Eagle Eye Cherry. Last year she played Cambridge Folk Festival(UK) and Haldern Pop Festival(DE). This year saw her showcase at Folk Alliance International before her first US tour in mid-2024. Shell join Culture Ireland for the Irish showcases at Showcase Scotland in early 2025. The Irish Joni Michael Londra Aside from her solo work, Gráinne collaborates with guitarist Brendan Walsh in the duo Gráinne and Brendan, exploring folk, classical, and traditional music - "Songs From Ireland" was released in 2019. Additionally, Gráinne is part of the folk duo Hibsen with Jim Murphy who wrote an album of songs based on James Joyce's "Dubliners - The Stern Task of Living was released in May 2023. The hardest working woman in Irish music Glen Hansard Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Jon Kenzie is a Manchester artist, who is now based in Hamburg Germany. He has been on and off the road for years making lots fans playing shows on the streets, at famous clubs, festivals and supporting artists such as; Ian Brown, The Dead South, Jack Savoretti and Saint Paul and the broken bones. His groovy guitar licks and powerful, soulful vocals never fail to stop people in their tracks. Anyone who appreciates music with soul and a groove will enjoy what Jon Kenzie has to offer. His creations are a mix of intimate dynamics and driving emotions that draws the listener further in to his sound. During the pandemic Jon used the time to write, produce and record a brand-new soul album which he released in 2024. Now Jon is back on the road promoting his new album and is currently touring through Europe. He has already released three albums independently that show his diversity within the genres of Blues, Folk and Soul music. Whilst he draws influence from older artists such as, Muddy Waters, Al green and Bob Dylan, he is also inspired by contemporary artists who explore a more vintage sound. Artists such as, Alabama Shakes, The Teskey Brothers, Gary Clark Jr and Leon Bridges. Jon's new album might be his most homogeneous one so far, as he explores a closer fusion of genres in order to give the album, 'Silent Applause' its own sound and identity. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Scottish musicians Donald WG Lindsay and Alasdair Roberts have been friends for thirty years, since their teenage days. In these three decades, their careers in music have taken them down differing yet similarly unorthodox paths, and theyve continued to make a lot of music together, usually informally. Theyve only rarely appeared together in concert, but in autumn 2024 they will remedy this state of affairs with their first duo tour. Donald WG Lindsay is best known as the creator of the Lindsay System three-octave keyless chanter for the Scottish smallpipes, as played by him on the critically acclaimed album History of Sleep recorded in collaboration with Glasgow experimental legend Richard Youngs. Donald is a former convenor of the Lowland and Border Pipers Society, with which he has a long association. Although a traditional singer since his teens, Donald has rarely ventured onto the stage as a vocalist, although he has recorded sporadically. In late 2020 he received airplay on BBC Radio 6 Music from Iggy Pop, who described his music as ...beautifully played... the whole record is really good. Alasdair Roberts is primarily known as a singer, guitarist, writer of songs and interpreter of traditional songs from Scotland and beyond. Since the nineties he has released several albums, mostly on the Drag City label, variously acclaimed both by aficionados of traditional song and experimental music. He has toured extensively in Scotland and worldwide. A keen collaborator, Alasdair has worked with many fellow musicians and practitioners from other disciplines including theatre, film, poetry and puppetry. He is a member of the folk quartet The Furrow Collective and the cult underground group Current 93. For their duo tour, Donald and Alasdair will present a programme featuring a rich variety of pipe tunes with guitar accompaniment, as well as a broad selection of songs both traditional and original. The pipe tunes bring together a diverse range of influences, from Scots fiddle tunes (Donald's elder brother's fiddling being an early influence), by way of Hungarian and Romanian pipe music, to classic and contemporary Highland piping and Lowland, Border and Northumbrian tunes. The songs range from variants (some rare, some more well-known) of traditional ballads or muckle sangs, to songs from the Scots lyrical tradition from the early modern period onwards, to contemporary songs written by both Alasdair and Donald. In the company of Donald WG Lindsay and Alasdair Roberts, listeners can expect a thrilling evening in which rare and splendid gems of Scottish musical history and tradition will be brought to life in the hands of two unconventional masters, who invite you to join them in celebrating thirty years of music and, just as importantly, of friendship! Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Yorkshire folk singer Jack Rutter has established himself as one of the standout voices of the folk, roots and acoustic music scene in recent years. A hugely engaging stage presence, his soaring vocal, powerhouse guitar and bouzouki playing and masterful arrangements of traditional songs and contemporary covers have enthralled audiences from the largest festival main stages to the most intimate folk clubs. This year sees the release of his critically acclaimed third album This Is Something Constant, a compelling and spellbinding showcase of gripping story ballads and upbeat festival-stage firecrackers, perfectly pitched and delivered with soaring, crystal clear vocals that breathe new life into ancient tales. Jack Rutter is one of the most enthralling folk singers, guitarists and musicians on the British folk scene today - with This Is Something Constant, the final release in a trilogy, he has hit the highest watermark to date. - Folk Radio UK ★★★★ - MOJO We come to the album on the back of a stirring solo set at Manchester Folk Festival, when Jack fired out a volley of songs that took no prisoners and demanded the attention of a late-night club crowd. The fact that he's armed with a powerhouse of an acoustic Gibson that's his main weapon of choice which he brandishes with glee, makes him a potent performer. - Louder Than War Magazine A fabulous album - like the first time I heard Martin Carthy on disc Im enthralled by every track - Mike Harding Jack says the album's title is about the longevity and lasting truth of folk songs, and on this classic album, he tells it like it is. Quality like this lasts, it is one for the long road. - Irish Music Magazine An outstanding performer. - The Independent Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

One of the most exciting duos to emerge from the UK in recent times, Kit Hawes & Aaron Catlow combine heartfelt musicality, unparalleled virtuosity and vocal harmony. Using the folk music of the British Isles as a catalyst, Kit and Aaron create dynamic and effervescent interpretations of centuries-old material as well as original songs and compositions, all the while celebrating the timeless aural quality of a guitar, fiddle and vocals duet. Studio albums The Fox (2016) and Pill Pilots (2019) have been met by wide critical acclaim, receiving five star reviews and local and national airplay. The duo tour extensively in the UK and internationally across Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. BBC 2's Mark Radcliffe is a champion of their work, saying Kit and Aaron are reminiscent of the late Dave Swarbrick and Martin Carthy... I can give them no higher accolade. They are at the top of their game. Fleet fingered and ingeniously arranged. .....deserve to be thought of as up there with the best of them" - Songlines Such dexterity, energy and passion.....mightily impressive - R2 Magazine The pair demonstrate an eclectic approach that lifts them head and shoulders above the rest - Acoustic Magazine Never a dull moment, with imagination firing throughout and an abundance of creative energy - Living Tradition Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Swilkie, the new album from Highlands-based songwriter Iona Lane, weaves ecology, conservation, islands and folklore into poetic songs and contemplative melodies. Written during three residencies on the Isle of Eigg, Isle of Mull and Sanday in Orkney, sense of place and landscape are at the core of these songs. From basking sharks to lighthouses, lichen to vanishing islands, curlews to tree planting; the album was recorded in a boathouse on the West Coast of Scotland and the eager listener may even hear the lapping sound of the tide murmuring through the album. Iona's connection to places by the sea is translated through these songs with evolving vocal melodies, subtle guitar and droning shruti box. Iona's debut album Hallival charted at #36 in the Official Folk Album Charts and was named by Folk Radio UK as #27 in their Top Albums of 2022. The album received widespread press including in The Guardian, Walk Highlands, BBC Radio 2 and The Scotsman to name a few. In 2023 Iona toured extensively and joined Karine Polwart on a run of tour dates in England. Iona joined Karine on stage for a few songs, an awe inspiring opportunity for audiences to see these two artists sing together. Iona was the recipient of the Taran Guitars Young Players Bursary in 2020. Iona's lyrics and musical arrangements crackle with wide-eyed curiosity. Jude Rogers, The Guardian A real talent! Mark Radcliffe, BBC Radio 2 Folk Show Iona feels like a kindred spirit with her gorgeous evocations of landscape and geeky scientific references. Karine Polwart An ethereal voice, poetic phrase and storytelling BBC Countryfile Magazine Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Now in his mid 50s, Paul Armfield is a veteran performer with a warm, relaxed stage presence. Following his most recent album 'Domestic' he was commissioned to write 5 songs about trees, and is now working on new material for release later this year. A songwriter's songwriter, he has picked up plaudits from the likes of Guy Garvey and Chris Difford. Selling books by day he is also an occasional funeral celebrant, a lino-cut artist, and a double bassist whose playing can be heard on the best-selling Michael Kiwanuka single Im Getting Ready as well as collaborations with jazz pianist Greg Foat. An accomplished musical-saw player, he has a busking alter-ego called the Stranger On The Saw. 'I love it so much, melodic, heartfelt, gentle. well-observed, beautifully sung' Mark Radcliffe 'A lovely lyric, a spellbinding song. This is really beautiful' Guy Garvey Gorgeous..beautiful, positive and amazing. Ace! Lauren Laverne 'As toasty and lovely as Christmas morning' Caitlin Moran 'Your album is the dogs!' Chris Difford A revelation The Scotsman

Housley is an award-winning singer and songwriter hailing from Yorkshire a young female artist and recent mother of two who has already made her mark with three independent albums and two BBC radio playlist hit singles. Housley's innate talent of writing beautiful, engaging songs, was born from the intuitive craft of earthy storytelling and delivered with an emotive knock out vocal performance at their core.

Singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jack Francis second album Early Retirement is another example of his impressive work. Shining a spotlight on Francis unique brand of Soulful Folk, Early Retirement explores a broad range of influences, touching on great British, Irish and American songwriting. The lyrical content demonstrates the writer's acerbic wit and attention to detail and compounds his experience navigating modern society and fallen dreams. The singles from his sophomore record were picked up on national radio and championed by the likes of BBC Radio 2, Radio X and BBC Radio Scotland - the album itself appearing in both the Official Americana and Official Folk Charts upon its release in March 2024. The song Failure was subsequently nominated for Song Of The Year at the UK Americana Awards in 2025. Jack's reputation as a stunning live performer has also put him in good company, opening shows for the likes of Flyte and Courtney Marie Andrews to name a couple, whilst also appearing at several festivals across the UK and Europe, including Glastonbury Festival in 2024. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Taz Modi Born in London to Indian and Czech parents, Taz Modi is a composer and musician renowned for his evocative and immersive soundscapes that blend post-classical, jazz and electronic elements. He is best known as a founding member of Submotion Orchestra and for playing keyboards and hang drum with the Mercury-nominated instrumental act Portico Quartet. In addition to his ensemble work, Modi has established a compelling solo career. His debut album, Reclaimed Goods, was featured as one of The Guardian writer John Lewis's Top 10 Albums of 2019, leading to tours across the UK and Europe with his string trio. Modi's forthcoming album, Involuntary Memories, is set for release on 14th March 2025 via Sehnsucht Records / Kartel Label Group. The album delves into themes of memory, nostalgia, and their evolution over time, drawing inspiration from significant life events such as the birth of his child and his relocation to the Sussex countryside after years in urban settings. The compositions weave together expressive solo piano with prepared piano textures, subtle electronica, and delicate string arrangements. Composing Work Beyond performance, Modi has an extensive portfolio as a composer. His work includes: Scoring Netflix's Mark Cavendish: Never Enough BBC's award-winning Your Home Made Perfect and Your Garden Made Perfect Commissions from The Barbican, Leeds Film Festival, and Kinoteka Film Festival Praise for Taz Modi "Shimmering, alluring... reminiscent of Sakamoto, Frahm and Hauschka... an even more effective exploration of solo piano" The Guardian "Understated genius... listen to it; it'll lift you high above our care-worn world to a place of safety and grace" Music Week "Stirring contemporary piano-led compositions... a rich, emotive listen" Bleep Live Performances & Touring Taz Modi has performed at renowned venues such as Brudenell Social Club (Leeds), St James Church (London), and Palac Akropolis (Prague). His festival appearances include We Out Here, Cross The Tracks, and more. His live shows offer an intimate and dynamic experience, often featuring re-imagined versions of his recorded works. Upcoming Album - Involuntary Memories Release Date: 14th March 2025 Label: Sehnsucht Records (via Kartel Label Group) Themes: Nostalgia, personal memory, time, and transformation Influences & Similar Artists: Hania Rani, lafur Arnalds, Nils Frahm, Joep Beving, Hauschka, Portico Quartet, Submotion Orchestra Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Good Habits are a UK alt-folk duo, telling stories and turning heads across the globe. Composed of singer-cellist Bonnie Schwarz and accordionist Pete Shaw, the duo create folk-ish musical tales, with captivating lyrics married with their unique brand of brisk instrumental virtuosity.

Join Jacob & Drinkwater on their Bright Road UK tour throughout May & June 2025. With the duo both living back in the West Country the tour is a homecoming of sorts and an opportunity to preview songs from their forthcoming album The Bright Road Home (due out later this year) as well as some of the repertoire fans have come to know and love. Tobias ben Jacob & Lukas Drinkwater first began performing together back in 2014 and have since released an EP, a live album and two studio albums, and taken in plaudits from BBC 6 Music and BBC Introducing, Glastonbury appearances, plus extensive touring in the UK and Europe. With a core sound built around acoustic guitar, double bass and vocal harmonies they deliver a powerful and mesmerising set (FRUK) . Their strongly folk influenced sound is full of vitality, dynamism, lush harmonies and surprising musical departures. ...they draw the audience into their world with a powerful mesmerising set. FRUK Exactly the kind of deep intense and brilliant thing weve come to expect from Jacob & Drinkwater BBC Music Introducing More innovative explorations in songwriting Fresh On The Net Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Mambo Jambo a joyous whirlwind of roots music! Musical Explorers Mambo Jambo are a truly unique duo, performing, as well as their own compositions, their upbeat mash-up of styles, with elements of roots, jazz, world and folk on a fabulous array of instruments. Pete on guitar, banjo, vocals, accordion, Cuban tres, ukulele, and Frankie on sax, vocals, clarinet, flute, & between them all kinds of percussion including suitcase and spoons! A fabulous musical treat is in store wherever they roll up, their tour bus packed to the brim with instruments! Pete and Frankie have appeared on various BBC Local Radio shows, BBC Look North, the BBC Symphony for Yorkshire and MTV Asia, and have been gathering admirers at shows and festivals the length and breadth of the country on their travels. Theyve played gigs in Havana, toured France, Ireland and Sweden, and festivals in Shetland, Borneo and Portugal. "They are the perfect band to see in an intimate setting as they have such a connection with an audience, and it's a real treat to experience their musicianship and the way they bounce off each other close up and real" The sheer enthusiasm & joy of their music along with their wonderful musicianship & great stage presence combine to create an act that will undoubtedly go down a storm wherever they play. Jim McLaughlin, Musicport Festival Really brilliant ! So uplifting! BBC Radio Derby Lovely Stuff! Durbervilles Folk & Roots Show, BBC Radio Leeds "Rays of sunshine and infectious energy. Holmfirth Arts Festival audiences loved them!! Bev Adams, Festival Director, Holmfirth Arts Festival "Warm entertaining delivery and exceptional talent. Once Seen, never forgotten" Will Richardson, Hunsley Acoustic Music Mambo Jamboa total delight! Big Malarkey Festival

Toronto-based folk duo, Basset, are full of timeless heart, with deeply human lyrics and stunning duo harmonies reminiscent of the early folk revival. Yasmine Shelton has one of those instantly recognizable voices that can dive, dip and soar all in a single phrase, while Sam Clark brings nuanced and tasteful support on guitar and other acoustic instruments. Produced by Joshua Van Tassel, their Canadian Folk Music Award-nominated album In The Clay (2022) explores various themes of life in change, Shelton and Clark's travels, and their lives growing up in opposite ends of Toronto. CBC Q's Tom Power says if youre a lover of great close harmonies, like Simon and Garfunkel, or Gillian Welch and David Rawlings, I think youre going to love this. Basset have toured heavily in the past year, including a three-month tour through Canada, the US, and the UK. Over this time they have developed a live show that is both sincere and disarmingly funny, with warmth enough to soothe anyone ready to lean in. They are making plans for a tour across Canada early in 2025, and a return to the UK and EU in the spring. They have plans to release an EP in summer 2025, with the first single Sail On out now. PRESS QUOTES: "If youre a lover of like great close harmonies, like Simon and Garfunkel, or Gillian Welch and David Rawlings, I think youre going to love this." Q with Tom Power, CBC Radio "Vocal harmonies and acoustic melodies that would soothe any weary traveler... It was pure joy" Sonja Nelson, No Depression "A really impressive début album." International Americana Music Show "The folk harmonies, though, are what really won my heart over with this song. The duo remind me a little of the Milk Carton Kids blended with a Rawling Welch style as well. It's an outstanding sound [...] Close your eyes and listen; I bet these harmonies will give you chills." Ear to the Ground "What I love about Basset is that with each song they release we are guaranteed to listen to dreamy harmonies packed with raw emotion, instantly connecting the listeners to their storytelling. [...] lush, acoustic guitar riffs, subtle bass and their stunning vocals & harmonies that together create such a heartwarming and soothing touch perfect for an introspective, relaxing day at home alone." Caesar Live N Loud "Uma épica jornada Sonora, te aguarda nas notas dessa doce canção, que embalará seus sentidos e trará uma pitada de nostalgia. Tudo muito simples e bom, como uma agradável tarde de sol no campo, aonde a paz reina e boa comida completa o quadro desenhe essa sensação em sua mente, aperte o play." An epic sound journey awaits you in the notes of this sweet song, which will lull your senses and bring a hint of nostalgia. All very simple and good, like a pleasant sunny afternoon in the countryside, where peace reigns and good food completes the picture draw that feeling in your mind, press play. Roadie Music "Expressive and raw performance from Basset." Glide Mag Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

American singer-songwriter Juliet Lloyd's music is a captivating mix of pop, folk, soul, and rock, blending raw emotion with genre-defying sound. Her latest album, Carnival, is a powerful exploration of heartbreak, self-discovery, and healing, where every song feels like a deeply personal confession. With poignant lyrics and a voice that resonates with vulnerability, Juliet invites listeners to reflect on life's contradictionsits light and dark moments, joys and painsthrough her unflinching storytelling, garnering comparisons to Patty Griffin, Grace Potter, Carole King, and Chris Stapleton. Juliet was a classically trained pianist and jazz trumpet player from an early age before studying songwriting at Berklee College of Music. It wasnt long before she was a fixture in the Boston singer-songwriter scene, releasing two critically acclaimed albums, touring across the country, and garnering placements on MTV and VH1. Struggling with burnout, Juliet walked away from music completely in 2009 and got a corporate job. Fast forward ten years, and in the midst of a global pandemic, she returned to songwriting and performing. After winning a string of national songwriting awards and releasing her 2022 EP High Roadhailed as a top-tier singer/songwriter albumJuliet returned full force. Since then, she has performed 150+ shows a year, both solo and with her band, at clubs and listening rooms across the US. "Evocative storytelling and raw honesty" (Washington City Paper) "A full-blooded affair that revisits emotional wreckage...the quality of the songwriting and Lloyd's vocals translate into a powerfully emotive performance from start to finish." (Lonesome Highway) Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

A voice and set of songs to soften the hardest of hearts NoDepression.com Described by BBC Radio 2 Bob Harris as One of his absolute favourite artists Lowri is blessed with a voice capable of wide emotional power, her songs taking their musical colours from a broad palette that includes Americana, Folk, Country and Blues, all beautifully knitted together through her innate musicality and heartfelt delivery. Lee Mason's beautifully judged guitar playing and subtle harmonies have been integral to Lowri's music from the outset and together they have toured the USA, been playlisted on BBC Radio and regularly perform in venues across the UK and in festivals such as Cambridge Folk, Underneath the Stars, Celtic Connections, Wychwood Festival and Greenman Festival. Lowri has opened for Seth Lakeman, Glenn Tilbrook, Martin Simpson, Natalie Imbruglia, Cara Dillon, Steve Tilston and has co-written with Tom McRae, Henry Priestman, Sam Genders, Michele Stodart, Marry Waterson. She was invited to the Chris Difford songwriting retreat in 2018 that was also attended by songwriters such as Jim Lauderdale, Beth Nielsen Chapman, Nell Bryden and Judie Tzuke. She has released 7 albums and 5 EP's under her own name, collaborated with Tom McRae to release their critically acclaimed Only skin album in 2021 and released another collaboration album Tell me world with North Wales singer-songwriter Sera in 2023 under the band name Tapestri. 2024 saw Lowri joining Tom McRae on his 38 date Autumn tour around the UK, Europe and Ireland and 2025 will see Lowri officially releasing her self-titled mini album which was previously only available as a limited edition on the Tom McRae's 2024 tour. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Vocalist/ multi-instrumentalist Anna Moss hails from the verdant forests and lush limestone of the Ozarks; yet her musical personality oozes New Orleans, the artist's adopted hometown for many years. Beginning in 2020, a deep pandemic depression sent Moss spiraling inward for months. Isolated in her bedroom, almost completely shut-off from the world, she accidentally unearthed a medicinal muse: writing solo songs on guitar for the first time. Anna's newfound brand of sultry stripped-down-soul is steeped in Southern R&B, Americana, porch jazz; apocalyptic love songs, gritty hymns of humanity, abolition, and compassion busked to fruition in the historic French Quarter streets. Her debut solo LP Amnesty was released in March 2024 Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Another evening with the insanely talented classical pianist Hyuk Namkoong at Cafe No9 PROGRAM: TBC BIOGRAPHY Hyuk Namkoong was born in South Korea and has won international piano awards. He won first prize in the Young Musician of the Gulf, the Best Pianist Award and Most Promising Bahrain-Based Musician Award in 2010. In the same year, he received third prize in the First International Chopin Competition in Kuwait. He also took part in the Second Aegaeon Art International Festival in Greece. In 2014, Hyuk performed in the Winners Concert run by the Crescendo Summer Institute (Hungary). He was also champion of the 2015 New Rising Star Piano Competition in Glasgow. Hyuk completed his undergraduate degree in piano performance at the Royal Academy of Music in 2015 and went to the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland for his Masters (2015-2017). Hyuk was under the tutelage of the famous pianist, Petras Geniuas. Qualifications Masters of Music in Piano Performance (Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, 2017) Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance (Royal Academy of Music, 2015) Personal achievement New Rising Star Piano Competition Champion in Glasgow, 2015 First prize in the Young Musician of the Gulf, 2010 The Best Pianist Award and Most Promising Bahrain-Based Musician Award, 2010 Third prize in the First International Chopin Competition in Kuwait, 2010 Testimonial Power-driven Korean Hyuk Namkoong was first off with Nikolai Kapustin's Sonata-Fantasia, which began its journey out east but wandered into Hollywood, Tin Pan Alley and 52nd Street, picking up widescreen and jazz influences wherever it walked. Hyuk gave it a knockout performance. I dont know if he got the jokes, but this listener, corpsing quietly in the back row, was dazzled. Michael Tumelty (Classical music writer), Herald Scotland, 29th February 2016

Jon Doran & The Northern Assembly are a groundbreaking new collaboration who seek to capture the excitement that lies within traditional song. The trio aims to breathe new life into old stories from across the British Isles, injecting the energy they feel these narratives deserve. With striking vocals from Jon Doran (BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award Finalist 2019), combined with the virtuosic playing of Jordan Aikin (!trailblazer - Calum MacCrimmon, Breabach), and Heather Ferrier (!accordion virtuoso Tom Robinson), the trio perform songs that create a cohesive musical framework with intricately layered arrangements, each song from the traditional folk canon unfolding a vivid drama (Folk London). Their eponymous debut EP, released in 2024, gained an overwhelming amount of positive feedback and secured airplay on shows such as BBC Radio 2, BBC Introducing North East, and BBC Radio Lincolnshire. Filled to the brim with energy, excitement and a lust for life (TradFolk), the trio move away from a conventional folk-song performance style and lean heavily upon their varied musical upbringings and experiences to conjure emotions and communicate a story far deeper than the words of the song. They blur the lines between two contrasting sides of the folk genre - the bright, vibrant energy of contemporary instrumental folk music, and the intensity of traditional storytelling songs. KLOF describe their songs as overflowing with ideas for the production of imaginative, entertaining music. The trio"s seemingly effortless mastery of vocals and instrumentation is truly im- pressive. Folk London Absolutely beautiful BBC Introducing North East Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

India and Lee are from over the hill in Hadfield. Two friends who over the years found their sound over pub pints and good chat, then went ahead and crafted it into beautiful songs woven together with threads of wistful, harmonious melodies. Lee Bardsley is a singer-songwriter/dreamer of poetic melodies that are born in the everyday and transcended to the sublime with his gloriously heartfelt voice of human experience and wonder. Reflective themes of family, longing, and adventure feature highly, and are painted with the rich and complimentary melodic lines and accompaniment from India Shan on violin. With roots in church choir harmonies and songwriting prowess built on a folk-rock adolescence, it's not so surprising that Rebekah Hawker ultimately found herself at the intersection of country and folk, embracing the full spectrum the genres have to offer. Hawker's latest single Ticket is a classic midtempo country song about two things that never go out of style, in any genre: broken hearts and broken dreams. She sings of bastards and radio play but flips the script in a canny way, declaring a positive outlook despite the rest. Rebekah's accolades include winning Folk Music Ontario's Songs from the Heart award in 2020, being a selected participant in the RBC Music Entrepreneurship Program in 2023, and winner of Mariposa Folk Festival's Emerging Artist Showcase in 2024. Her music has been heard on The Strombo Show and other CBC Radio programming and her song Ticket can be heard on rotation at SiriusXM's North Americana station. Her sophomore EP, Quit My Habit, set for release in June 2025 with funding from the Ontario Arts Council, represents her most authentic and ambitious work yet. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Izzie Yardley is a singer-songwriter attracting critical recognition as a singer, lyricist and multi-instrumentalist. She crafts detailed songs laced with imagination, emotion and beguiling complexity, which draw from British folk traditions as well as the jazz and classical music she grew up on. Sophomore EP Pull Back The Sea was released October 2024, produced by Dom Monks (Big Thief, Laura Marling, Billie Marten) and made with the support of PRS Foundation Women in Music and Help Musicians Do It Differently fund. Her publicly-funded debut EP Imposter was released in June 2023. Also produced by Dom Monks it earned airtime from the likes of BBC Scotland, Absolute Radio and BBC Introducing. Captivating and unfettered live performances are earning her a rapidly growing audience. Recently Izzie's opened for artists like This Is The Kit, Jesca Hoop, Ocean Colour Scene, Beans on Toast, Supalung (Sam Brookes), played festivals like The Great Escape with Bob Harris Under the Apple Tree, and toured the UK with The Brother Brothers, Matt Deighton and Ida Mae. She is currently recording her debut album with Brit Award-winning producer Ethan Johns (Paul McCartney, Tom Jones, Flyte), due for release in 2025/26. a masterpiece of restraint FATEA almost in jazz territorydistinctive style that is almost conversational but has a soulful, expressive edge. Lovely lyrics too and a smartly fluid and imaginative arrangement Neil March, Trust The Doc Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

The Albaidar Duo will take audiences on a journey through the rich traditions of Arab folk and classical music, with a special focus on Syria, where both musicians have their roots. In a chamber setting, listeners will be immersed in evocative melodies and rhythms, exploring essential themes of love, nature, and homeland. The duo presents Arabic music in carefully crafted arrangements, enhancing the traditional timbres of the oud, daf, riq, and nay with the Western flute. The Albaidar Duo is a unique collaboration between two independent artists that began in 2014 while they were members of the Prague-based ensemble Ziriab. In 2023, Kristýna and Marwan released music videos as a tribute to Arab divas Asmahan and Layla Mourad. In May 2024, they performed at Kettle's Yard gallery in Cambridge in response to an exhibition by Syrian visual artist Issam Kourbaj. Inspired by one of the exhibition's recurring themeswheat seedsthey took the name Albaidar referring to the threshing floor, where wheat is separated from the chaffa symbol of refinement and transformation. In January, the duo performed at Mezrab The House of Stories in Amsterdam and is set to give several concerts across Europe this year. With a blend of Slovak and Syrian heritage, Czech flautist and singer Kristýna Farag draws on both classical music and Middle Eastern traditions. A versatile independent musician, she specialises in 20th-century and Arabic music, as well as improvisation with her Prague-based quartet, Fahrzavö. Passionate about choral music, particularly the British tradition, she is also a member of the Leeds Guild of Singers, led by Benjamin Kirk. She has recorded with and performed at international festivals alongside renowned ensembles such as the Baborák Ensemble and the Prague Symphony Orchestra and won first prize in the flute trio category at the Friedrich Kuhlau International Competition in Uelzen, Germany, in 2011. Marwan Alsolaiman is a Damascus-born, Prague-based musician, poet, and teacher. Having learned to play the oud, Middle Eastern flutes (nay), and various percussion instruments, Marwan founded Ziriab, an ensemble devoted to the Arabic musical tradition. He is a member of the early music ensemble Kvinterna. Marwan collaborates with several Czech bands, bringing Middle Eastern elements to the Czech folk scene. He leads workshops and gives lectures on Arab music and instruments. He is also a teacher of Czech as a foreign language and physics. As a prolific poet, he writes in both Arabic and Czech and has released two collections of poems. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Recognised with a double page feature in global Guitarist magazine, Jon is a guitarist of exceptional calibre. His stand-out talent has been applauded by Carl Barat of The Libertines who hailed Jon as a badman fingerpicking guitarist and Martin Simpson who describes Jon as the real deal. Following the release of his 2023 album, Jon was Mark Radcliffe's featured session guest on the BBC Radio 2 Folk Show and the album was awarded Guardian Folk Album of the Month. His recent music career includes four solo albums and one EP, with regular acclaim from well-regarded publications such as Uncut Magazine, Folk Radio (Klofmag) and The Guardian. Jon's performances are warm, honest and intimate shared experiences, his presence entirely charming and modest whilst his talent brightly evident. Ever with a keen eye and ear for a story, and with a fascinating past career as a journalist and editor of Time Out, Jon's live shows include conversation about the songs, his experiences, who and what has inspired him, as well as stories he has unearthed during his extensive research into traditional music. For his forthcoming album, due for release and touring in Autumn 2025, Jon aims for his music to bring people together with an energy that will make it hard to sit still! Emanating an upbeat, warm, communal feel, the new album sees Jon reconnecting with a talented group of old friends and collaborators, including folk luminary Jackie Oates. Inspired by enthusiastic audience and press response to his own songwriting and compositions, his forthcoming album sees Jon making a shift from his previous, more traditional repertoire to a collection of nearly all original songs. It's a recording that is set to unite Jon's heartfelt songwriting with his wide-ranging influences and experience in traditional music and far beyond. Jon's a badman fingerpicking guitarist and leading exponent of the songs of Old Albion. CARL BARAT, THE LIBERTINES Wilks proves once again what a stand-out talent he really is. There is an honesty and compassion in Wilks writing and performance, which is entirely charming. KLOFMAG A scholar's ear for vernacular and a dashing sense of verve on fingerpicked guitar. UNCUT MAGAZINE Sublime songwriting. Wilks is a rather special performer. FOLK RADIO Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Formed in 2022 by accomplished songwriter Joe Armitage, Buffalo Ghost blends the raw storytelling of Americana with a dynamic range that moves from mellow acoustic ballads to full-throttle rock/blues anthems. Drawing from Joe's rich songwriting tradition and the collective experience of seasoned musicians, the band has quickly carved out a loyal following in their hometown of Sheffield. With Joe Armitage at the helmproviding captivating vocals, heartfelt guitar, and a deep well of lyrical storytellingBuffalo Ghost's sound is both intimate and expansive, evoking the kind of American roots music that feels both timeless and fresh. The band's rhythm section, featuring Jules Woodman on bass and Smack on drums, provides a steady foundation, while Pete Thompson's keys add a soulful depth to their sound. But it's the unmistakable guitar work of Mark Lyall, a true Sheffield legend, that elevates Buffalo Ghost's live performances to another level. Whether delivering intricate acoustic melodies or scorching lead lines, Lyall's playing brings a fiery, electrifying energy to every song. With an innate ability to shift from poignant, reflective storytelling to full-on rock out, Buffalo Ghost consistently delivers a live experience that feels personal and rawwhether theyre playing to a packed venue or an intimate crowd. Their unique blend of Americana, rock, and roots music has earned them a reputation as one of Sheffield's most exciting emerging acts. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Anna Rheingans is preparing her first ever solo performances in the UK this year, in two unique concerts: a rare opportunity not to be missed. Best known for her work as part of duo The Rheingans Sisters, she will take to the stage alone and share the brand new body of work she has been crafting. Anna has been exploring the creative process with a curated selection of admirable musicians, songwriters and fiddle-singers this year, including Laura Cortese, Eliza Carthy, Jack Harris, Nancy Kerr and Hannah Read to name a few. The clock is ticking, the pencils are still scribbling, the practice timer is on, and Anna is looking forward to sharing her brand new work with those lucky enough to attend. Expect groove-infused drones, microtonal pattern experiments, baroque-polskas, modal melismas, heartwarming fiddle-songs, and dream-filled banjo recitals. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Tom Bright's feet haven't touched the ground these past 18 months. From performing on BBC One's Sunday Morning Live, at Glastonbury Festival and appearing on Sky News to supporting The Libertines, The Leisure Society, Ed Harcourt, Katherine Priddy and Alberta Cross on UK/EU shows, he's toured relentlessly across the continent. Armed with his guitar signed by Johnny Marr of The Smiths and John Squire of The Stone Roses, previous career highlights include performing at the London Palladium, Shepherd's Bush Empire, The One Show, multiple live sessions and interviews on BBC Radio 2, 5Live, Radio X, opening for the likes of Mystery Jets, Tom Grennan, Richard Walters, Reverend & The Makers and working with the likes of The The. He's earned the plaudits of esteemed music champions John Kennedy & Guy Garvey, publication CLASH Magazine and spent 2 years in Spotify's Most Beautiful Songs in the World with 'If I Met Your Shadow'. Tom is now all set to wind the clock back by releasing an early collection of songs he recorded with legendary producer and punk rock pioneer Mick Jones of The Clash/Big Audio Dynamite and his right-hand man Dirty White, mastered by Miles Showell at Abbey Road Studios. Featuring Mick on piano throughout and even Sex Pistol Glen Matlock playing bass, the collection titled Young Old Bloke (abbreviated to YOB') offers a fascinating insight into how it all started music-wise for Tom. There's rocknroll, big guitar riffs, tongue in cheek lyrics and even a theremin. The title is multi-layered, referring to how Tom felt post-pub landlord days, whilst also referencing working alongside music royalty, seeing that they were all just young old, or older young, blokes. Tom has three previous albums out in the world (all produced by Ed Harcourt). Before his musical endeavours, he was the UK's youngest pub landlord, and is also a former patient of Great Ormond Street Hospital, undergoing a multitude of life-saving operations as a child. After 2 sold out shows here with Ed Cosens back in March, we're delighted to welcome Tom back for what will be a very special and intimate evening. Special Guest Lilla Shy Lilla Shy is a London based singer, songwriter and producer who attributes her name to a blanket she's had since she was born, which became her soft amulet in times of social anxiety and shyness. Lilla started her writing journey in 2017 for DJs in the international EDM scene but only in July 2022 started her autobiographical Indie Pop project, moved by the urge to tell her own stories. Fast forward two years and she released her self-produced debut album, Layers, which gained tremendous national radio support from John Kennedy at Radio X, Jodie Bryant on Voices Radio, on air performances and interviews with Dean Jackson on BBC Introducing, BBC Radio London with Jaqueline Shepherd and she just started 2025 performing on BBC 5Live for Patrick Kielty. The album has also landed on multiple Spotify (Borderless, Fresh Finds, New Music Friday) & Apple Music (New Pop) editorial playlists and received high praise from Wonderland Magazine. Following a pinch me performance at the London Palladium in 2023, last year she embarked on her own tour around the UK, which kicked off with a set for BBC Introducing Live and included a sold out headline show in London at the Troubadour. The girl from Rome who found her musical home in the UK has captured the hearts of many with her beautiful voice and heartfelt, honest songwriting. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Gecko is a singer-storyteller based in South London. His songs cover the big things in life with wit and warmth. From deep time to ignored characters in renaissance paintings, from pig fugitives to Duolingo streaks. He tours in support of his new album The Big Picture recorded with Shuta Shinoda (Ghostpoet, Hot Chip). Gecko has performed across the world including at Glastonbury, Latitude, BBC Radio 1, 6 Music, the Edinburgh Fringe & the BAFTA winning Sky Arts TV show Life & Rhymes. Gecko's songs have caused a stir on TikTok & Instagram receiving millions of views and hardly any mean comments. He's a work of art Benjamin Zephaniah Playful but also emotionally piercing Clash Magazine It's a beautiful, warm, melodic, human record where tiny things become huge. The Morning Star Vibrant and life affirming EARMILK Witty lyricism, vibrant character building and a heartfelt reflection of life and fantasy Noctis Magazine Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Hawksley Workman is a JUNO Award-winning and Gold Record certified singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. Since his ground-breaking self-produced indie debut For Him and The Girls (1999) through to chart-topping singles of the 2020’s, Hawksley has careened between major label international smash hits to Canadiana soaked indie releases. Boasting a catalogue of 17 solo records, Hawksley’s genre defying style strings together folk, chart pop and irrepressible cabaret. His show-stopping vocals on songs about weather, love, heartbreak and tales of end-times have garnered him a league of devoted fans. Performing over a thousand shows worldwide, Hawksley has headlined prestigious venues like Massey Hall and The Olympia in Paris. For a uniquely Canadian artist Hawksley has built loyal fan bases in the UK, France, Norway and Australia launching many successful tours, demystifying and delighting fans while drawing on an enviable catalogue of mischievous favourites, glammy stompers and heartfelt hymns to small town Canada. Presented by DMP. This is an 18+ event

A Different Thread are back with their new album 'Call of the Road'. Eleven new songs about love, longing, and wanderlust. A Different Thread's is fronted by the duo Alicia Best from North Carolina and Robert Jackson from the Midlands of England. They originally met busking in Ireland and have been on the road ever since, recording, and touring internationally. They have supported the likes of Jody Stevens (Big Star) and Native Harrow, as well as garnering the attention of the BBC and NPR radio. 'Call of the Road' pulls from the band's respective roots, weaving together elements of British and Appalachian folk into a timeless, minimalist sound.

Bad ideas, VCRs, crumbling factories, terrible therapists, hairy dogs, wrinkled shirts, French fries, questionable tattoos...all are fair game for Nova Scotian funeral director-turned-songwriter Terra Spencer. Merging Canadian folk storytelling with 70s warmth, the songs are good ones, judging from the accolades her four albums have received. Terra's new self-produced fourth album, 'Sunset', tied with Julian Taylor's Pathways for the 2024 Penguin Eggs Roots Canada Album of the Year, and Terra received 2024 East Coast Music Award nominations for Folk Release, Roots Release, and Songwriter of the Year. Sunset features guests from east to west, including Matt Andersen, The Bombadils, and Stephen Fearing, with songs spanning big band blues to string band folk. Although her butterscotch voice, deft fingerstyle guitar, and gospel-charged piano make her a formidable musician, it's her onstage ease and crackling homespun wit that make each show feel like a knee-to-knee conversation in a room of 5 or 500. The real deal. - Ron Sexsmith Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

For his birthday, Ash Gray puts on a unique evening with a selection of tunes amassed from his different projects and collaborations. Expect a diverse range of styles, fiery jams and plenty of harmony. Featuring many guests and collaborators from over the years including, Burners, Johnny Griff, Tom Townsend and many more surprises. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

M G Boulter is a songwriter and musician living on the Thames coast in Essex, UK. Serving his apprenticeship in numerous bands in the hotbed of the Southed-on-Sea pub rock scene (the precursors of which were household names such as Procol Harem, Dr Feelgood and Eddie and the Hotrods), M G came to lead, as singer and guitarist, the popular country rock band The Lucky Strikes, who Q Magazine once likened to The Waterboys on trucker pills. M G's songwriting creates vignettes of ordinary life and seaside communities. This writing is no better shown than in his 2021 album Clifftown, a themed album based on his personal experiences and the wider hidden histories of his hometown, Southend-on-Sea . Working again with producer Andy Bell and a host of friends from bands as diverse as Bellowhead and Spritiualised, M G created a personal history of growing up in seaside suburbia which is both affecting and observant. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Meet Taff Rapids Stringband, a rising bluegrass sensation from Cardiff, known for their refreshing take on the genre. Hosts to the only monthly bluegrass show in the capital, this band has created a buzz around Bluegrass with their Stringband Sundays event. This dynamic ensemble has channeled their influences from the bluegrass forfathers right up to progressive bands such as the Punch Brothers. With a repertoire ranging from traditional bluegrass classics to captivating originals, Taff Rapids Stringband showcases their mastery of the genre; infusing their Welsh heritage by incorporating bluegrass songs sung in Welsh, adding a unique touch that resonates worldwide. Invited to participate in International Bluegrass Music Association World of Bluegrass, Taff Rapids Stringband's undeniable talent and growing demand for their brand of bluegrass is catching the attention of everyone they perform for. They embrace every opportunity with unwavering determination, promising electrifying performances, rich harmonies, and unmatched instrumental prowess. Taff Rapids Stringband is poised to become a powerhouse in the realm of bluegrass music, leaving an indelible mark on the global music landscape.

Join Jacob & Drinkwater on their Bright Road UK tour throughout May & June 2025. With the duo both living back in the West Country the tour is a homecoming of sorts and an opportunity to preview songs from their forthcoming album The Bright Road Home (due out later this year) as well as some of the repertoire fans have come to know and love. Tobias ben Jacob & Lukas Drinkwater first began performing together back in 2014 and have since released an EP, a live album and two studio albums, and taken in plaudits from BBC 6 Music and BBC Introducing, Glastonbury appearances, plus extensive touring in the UK and Europe. With a core sound built around acoustic guitar, double bass and vocal harmonies they deliver a powerful and mesmerising set (FRUK) . Their strongly folk influenced sound is full of vitality, dynamism, lush harmonies and surprising musical departures. ...they draw the audience into their world with a powerful mesmerising set. FRUK Exactly the kind of deep intense and brilliant thing weve come to expect from Jacob & Drinkwater BBC Music Introducing More innovative explorations in songwriting Fresh On The Net Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Anna McLuckie is a Scottish singer, songwriter and Clàrsach player. Raised on classical and traditional music, Anna's writing draws on her musical beginnings and also takes influence from her love of popular music and more experimental sounds. Her music sits in a world of contemporary folklore; her songs layered with interweaving harmonies, story led lyricism and free form structures. Based in London, she has performed in places around the world from Rockwood Music Hall NYC, to a concert series in Russia, to house shows and folk sessions. She's appeared at festivals across the UK and supported the likes of Jake Xerxes Fussell, Rozi Plain and Richard Hawley. In 2024 Anna took part in the Making Tracks residency and toured the UK with renowned global roots musicians. She is currently being mentored by English Folk Expo (Soundroots UK) and Kick Arts UK. Her first full length album The Little Winters is set to be released in the back end of 2025. lush indie-folk at its finest, with Anna backing her dexterous picking with some equally sublime vocals - Klof Magazine "a voice like birdsong" - Bella Caledonia "a haunting collection of nu-folk poetry set to music" - Only A Northern One Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

William Jack is an Australian multi-style cellist and songwriter, based in London. He is best known for incorporating his jazz guitar background into an unconventional style of cello playing, with a passion for breaking boundaries between genres and cultures. His music transitions seamlessly from virtuosic folk & bluegrass compositions, to non-Western sound worlds. Since his classical studies in Vienna, William has forged his own cello pathway, touring Europe, Australia and the UK extensively. He has recently performed his solo compositions from his debut album This Old Cello Box live on BBC Radio 3 at the Edinburgh Fringe, and was selected to perform as a New Folk songwriter at the 2023 Kerrville Folk Festival in Texas. He has been fortunate to work with numerous world-renowned artists, both as a session musician and collaborator. William is passionate about redefining the possibilities of the cello and bringing the instrument into new territories. William is currently touring his 2024 sophomore album This Old Cello Box, Vol.2 Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Flautist and composer Eliza Marshall's debut release in her own name is the single New Birth, available to hear now. It is the first track to be released from a forthcoming EP out on Real World X on 23 May, 2025. Renowned for her work with the award-winning folk group Ranagri, Eliza is also an in- demand session player contributing to records by the likes of Stevie Wonder, Paul McCartney, First Aid Kit, Florence & The Machine and The White Stripes. She was a member of Peter Gabriel's New Blood Orchestra and also appears on his current album i/o. Classically trained, Eliza grew up listening to Steve Reich, Paul Simon and the aforementioned Gabriel, along with traditional music from all over the world. Her passion for defying genres is put into play on this first single New Birth that weaves layers of percussion, haunting flute melodies and hypnotic balafon rhythms, shrouded in tribal chants and electronics - and the subsequent EP. The tracks were recorded at Real World Studios, England and Dakar, Senegal with world class musicians from Senegal and The Gambia (Ady Thioune and Ansumana Suso) and the UK (Andrew Morgan, Dònal Rogers), and production from Ivor Novello recipient Graeme Pleeth. New Birth is about new beginnings, new life, new ideas, says Marshall. It looks to this time, 2025, in the life of our planet; Our Times, our era, the way we connect and interact, and who we share our lifetimes with. In Spring, I imagine new life beneath the soil, roots quietly intertwining and nurturing one another, while above, new shoots grow. What is the first light for a plant or a child A beautiful, yet daunting, world to behold This EP is unlike anything Ive written before. It pushes me far beyond my comfort zone. It's filled with tribal chanting vocals, powerful percussive layers, lots of whistles and electronics. I've had a whole range of influences in my life that are beyond classical music, which have shaped the musician I am today - a mix of many different genres. I dont believe artists need to be confined to a single style. I love the idea of cross-pollination, of sharing influences and ideas across cultures globally. I hope this spirit of openness and exchange comes through in my EP. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Joe Newman (Reverend and the Makers), Paolo Mazzoni (TC & the Groove Family), Mike Thompson (Creola, RiteTrax) and lead vocalist Lindy Surtees are the powerhouse 'Goldivox'. Entirely original, their sound is both modern and nostalgic, combining elements of RnB, neo-soul, disco and funk to provoke mind, body and soul in equal measure. Powerfully authentic, with deep pockets of groove layered with smooth textures and provocative melodies exuding a familiar feel, their music leaves audiences satisfied yet wanting more. Together, their live performing experience includes national arenas (Wembley- Joe with Reverend and the Makers), festivals up and down the country (Shambala, Green Man, Boomtown- Paulo with TC and The Groove Family) to intimate local venues. Currently self-recording their first album in analogue, Dave Sanderson (Reverend and the Makers) is producing and Rob Gordon (original founder of WARP records- Moloko, Human League) is mastering their tracks. The first of these, 'Shelter' was played on BBC Introducing. Theyve been making waves in their hometown of Sheffield, drawing admiration for their sonorous musicianship and gripping live shows. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Urubu (Sally Doherty, Paul Kilvington and guest Graham Jones) Urubu is a collective of musicians who share a love for Latin American Music. An evening of songs from South America performed in their original languages of Portuguese and Spanish. Fronted by vocalist Sally Doherty and pianist Paul Kilvington. This gig will also feature our guest Graham Jones on double bass. A fusion of Latin, Jazz and Folk. Sally's musical career has led her into numerous genre and collaborative creative and physical journeys whose influence can sometimes be heard in her performances giving her approach to Latin American song a fresh and original sound. She has released 12 albums (self-penned, Folk, Jazz and Latin) and collaborated on many varied projects which have taken her on tour all over Europe as well as America, Australia and Scandinavia. She has performed live on MTV, BBC radio 1, RAI 1 Italian TV and a multitude of European and USA Radio stations. Her work as a composer has also resulted in writing and performing for BBC TV, BBC Radio 4 Drama and short films. Paul Kilvington was the creator and musical director of Latin Jazz outfit Amazonia who wowed UK Jazz Festival audiences in the 90s. His improvisation skills in a Latin American framework are simply stunning and often unexpected and surprising. His creative output has resulted in numerous albums as a composer and performer and also as a producer. They have performed at Jazz festivals in Manchester, Marlborough, Wigan, Melbourne and some wonderful venues: Davenham Players Theatre, Chester Theatre, The Sands, The Cinnamon Club, Scarborough and Leeds Jazz clubs and of course Jazz at the Lescar. faultless intonation and taste from Sally, sounding equally at home in Portuguese, Spanish and English. This will appeal to a wide spectrum of listeners not only technically accomplished but very beautiful Alan Barnes A universal voice sans pareil. Sally stuns for her many afficionadosMarlborough Jazz Festival. She invests a bossa nova with deep feelinga command of timing and general exquisiteness Manchester Evening News lovely terrificJazz Jury, The Jazz digital radio. Album of the weekit stands out from the restDavid Jensen, The Jazz digital radio. Sally imparts a delicious, langourous charm to all of them (the songs).In Tune International. Her voice has a bell-like clarity with impeccable pitch and diction. She adds to these qualities faultless sensitivity to the mood of each song Scarborough Jazz I defy anyone not to be charmed by the subtleties of her voice. Divine singing. The Cinnamon Times Mercurial talentWigan International Jazz Festival. Blessed with a voice (that is) supple soft and strong, sensuous and melodic. In short: Sally is one of the brightest talents Jazz & Bossa Nova, FM-106, Rio de Janeiro. Sally Doherty proves very well that she can use her voice in many different ways, permanently gaining new facets just wonderful, professionally performed, nostalgic music Lichttaufe, Germany Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

With fingers in folk, blues, rock, an original rhythm and roots duo from Edinburgh. Shows include acoustic versions of their full band (Broken Windows) with eclectic percussion & mandolin from former Hong Kong Sinfonietta percussionist Suzy Cargill, beside "a voice that could wake the dead" singer-songwriter Liz Jones, on acoustic guitar. They perform with a 'whichever way the wind blows' varied and gutsy set of stories, laughs and tragedies. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Singer/songwriter Kirsten Adamson summons the same heart-stopping purity as Sandy Denny, by way of Emmylou Harris and Kate Bush. Transcendence runs in the family. Her father was Stuart Adamson (Skids, Big Country) and her mother Alexandra, a champion Highland dancer. With summers spent soaking up the atmosphere in Nashville with her dad and a string of leading roles in musical theatre back in the UK, the teenage Adamson’s course was set. She sang backing vocals on Big Country’s last album Driving to Damascus at age 13. By 2010, she was forging her own career as a vocalist and keyboard player for indie-folkers Aberfeldy. She fronted country rockers The Gillyflowers and more recently shone as half of alt-country duo The Marriage, and then on a self-titled solo debut. The austere beauty of her voice has been a constant motif.

A consistently solid songwriter & musician at her foundation, Natalie Holmes has been releasing music both solo and collaboratively since 2010, with an unwavering energy for encouraging inward reflection and growth through her lyrics. Beginning the journey with grainy covers on YouTube, Natalie now has countless EP's and singles released under her own name, as well as extensive self-produced demo albums on Bandcamp and Patreon where her close and connected fans support her. In 2016 Natalie was asked to join Above & Beyond on their Acoustic World Tour as one of their lead vocalists, on account of her ethereal yet heart-wrenching vocals, performing in spaces like the Hollywood Bowl & Royal Albert Hall. Though collaboration with a wide range of electronic genres is something she enjoys making a large part of her musical tapestry, she has also received attention for her solo material from Radio 2 + 6, Record of the Day & Clash, the latter quoting an inspired return from a songwriter we will enjoy watching develop over the coming months and years. In 2020, Tom Robinson gave Dandelion a spin on his BBC 6 show, which will feature on the album, and you can find a number of original works by Natalie on Calm, the #1 sleep & meditation app. The inventive but familiar, simple but complex. She writes the kind of tunes that get inside your head and dont let go BBC Introducing in the West The music is flowing, graceful and calm, but with a driving pulse to it, giving it life and vitality, a heartbeat Tap The Feed Natalie Holmes possesses a sonic and lyrical punch with engaging melodies Get Into This

Griefcat (aka, Louisa Hall & Annie Nardolilli) is a musical comedy duo known for their harmonies, hilarity, viral videos, and engaging live performances. Theyve garnered over 50M views on their social media content over the last year, and have been featured by NBC (America's Got Talent), ABC (Good Morning Washington), NPR, the Washington Post, and more. Hailed as local favorites by Washington City Paper in their hometown of DC, they are often referred to as Tenacious Double D's due to their musicality and hilarious lyrics, their sequin studded shows has even Questlove admitting he "feels seen." Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Acclaimed Canadian songwriter Dana Sipos' captivatingly nuanced songs are filled with a wild wind and a haunting surrealism. Described as "slightly strange and completely mesmerizing" Gold Flake Paint UK), with earthen imagery, spiralling vocals, and textured instrumentation she sets the stage for a deeply moving performance. A consummate performer, Sipos has brought her cosmic folk to living rooms, concert halls and festivals stages across North America, Europe and Australia. With a new collection of captivating songs that hold the complexity of the human experience up to the light, she will start releasing singles from her new album 'Golden Molten' in spring 2025. Sipos will be joined by Lina Andonovska on flute and Justin Wright on cello, playing well worn tunes and new songs from the album and on her UK spring tour. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Rainbow Girls is a collaborative of songwriters, multi-instrumentalists, vocalists, and California natives who spent their first 5 years touring Europe and the US as a rock n' roll band. Since 2016 they've returned to their folkier roots. The current trio version of the band highlights their rich harmonies, ageless songwriting, and soulful, bluesy sound at its rawest form. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

A sense of hope against the odds that recurs and invites repeated listens - UNCUT Mag Uk (8 out of 10 stars) "These are songs with stories well told" - Steve Earle Casey Neill is a songwriter from Portland, Oregon performing high energy indie folk, infused with haunting melodies and weather beaten narratives. His last two albums were released on Fluff & Gravy records, one with his band Casey Neill & The Norway Rats, Sending Up Flares, and one solo, time zero land. A prolific road warrior since the late 90s, Neill tours throughout the USA, Japan, and Europe, performing at venues such as Town Hall in New York, San Francisco's Great American Music Hall, and the Newport Folk Festival. Neill has been establishing himself in the UK over the last few years, playing at London's Green Note, Hebden Bridge's Trades Club and Maverick Festival, Suffolk and is set to return this summer with dates confirmed at Cafe No9, Sheffield, The Betsey Trotwood and Maverick Festival alongside guitarist Chet Lyster. 'time zero land' follows Casey Neill & the Norway Rats 'Sending Up Flares'. A self-produced collection of bedroom recordings, time zero land leans into the American folk and traditional Scots/Irish influences that have often underscored his songwriting craft and guitar work. The songs on Sending Up Flares and time zero land offer a lifeline to a world in need of balance, shot through with stories about resolve, resilience, and wonder. Guitarist Chet Lyster produced and co-wrote the songs on Sending Up Flares. A member of EELS since the early 2000s, Lyster has been a staple of their Europe tours. He was a touring and recording member of Lucinda Williams band for a few years and plays on her Grammy nominated album Little Honey. Chet has been a member of Casey Neill & The Norway Rats since it's inception and has contributed to many other recordings and bands in Portland. The Norway Rats are a band of Pacific Northwest heavy hitters with a longtime roster that includes accordionist/keyboardist Jenny Conlee of The Decemberists, bassist Jesse Emerson of Amelia, and Neill. Sending Up Flares also features guest appearances from a number of indie icons, including Sleater-Kinney's Corin Tucker and Slang's Anita Lee Elliott. Scott McCaughey and R.E.M.'s Peter Buck both of whom perform alongside Neill in pop power group The Minus 5 also appear on the record. On an album filled with musical all- stars, though, it's Casey Neill & The Norway Rats who shine the brightest. Theyve established their own musical mix a melting pot of synthesized textures, organic instruments, and sharp songwriting and theyve never sounded so resolute. Critic Marco Rivera described it best for music blog Splendid: Be it through raucous rockers, fragile acoustic ballads, soulful touches of Irish folk, Neill's narrative talent and concern for real people's struggles stand out. The results are so evocative, you'll be tempted to steep further in these memories, the better to share Casey Neill's particular blend of personal and historical experience. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Ray Cooper, a.k.a. Chopper, is a story based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist living in Sweden. Previously with Oysterband, Ray decided to go solo in 2013. Since that time he has written, recorded and released 5 solo albums and completed over 40 tours in Europe, Canada, and the UK. On stage Ray sings and plays cello, guitar, mandolin, piano and harmonica. Former bands included Amazorblades, 3 Mustaphas 3 and OK Jive as well as many session recordings with producers such as Steve Lillywhite, Martin Rushent, Joe Jackson, Phil Chevron, Edwin Starr and Pete Bellotte, before eventually hooking up with Oysterband with whom he toured in 27 countries, recorded 19 albums, and won many awards. Ray's music straddles folk, americana, world, rock and the singer-songwriter tradition, drawing on his wide experience in all these areas, from playing ceilidh music or rocking out on festival stages with Oysterband, to playing Swedish folk music in the local Sörmland tradition where he lives. Ray's fifth solo album Even For A Shadow, released in May 2024, was nominated for album of the year in the Folk and Singer-songwriter category for the German music critics prize. Preis Der Schallplatten Kritik. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Leo Middea was born in Rio de Janeiro in 1995 and currently resides in Barcelona, Spain. He is a singer, composer, and instrumentalist. Over his 10-year career, Leo has released five studio albums, each reflecting different phases of his life and career: Dois (2014), A Dança do Mundo (2016), Vicentina (2020), Beleza Isolar (2020), and Gente (2023), and has given over 300 performances in 16 countries - with 100 of them taking place in 2024 alone. Leo is reinventing Brazilian music by blending traditional genres with influences from diverse cultures. His music has garnered over 10 million plays on Spotify. Leo's captivating performances have sold out concert halls across Europe and Brazil. In 2024, he achieved second place in the traditional Portuguese Song Festival, becoming the first Brazilian to reach the final. Leo is currently working on his sixth album, featuring songs recorded live in different parts of the world. Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Alice Howe & Freebo have undeniable chemistry. Rock bass legend Freebo weaves his fretless stylings into Alice's soulful, impeccably-tuned vocals for a harmony-driven performance showcasing two uniquely compelling songwriters. Best known for his ten years playing bass with Bonnie Raitt, Freebo has toured and recorded with some of the greatest artists of his generation, including John Mayall, Ringo Starr, Crosby Stills & Nash, Maria Muldaur, and Dr. John. For the past twenty-five years, he's been writing and performing his own original music. Alice Howe is a lifelong singer and songwriter beginning to make a name for herself, and recently had the honor of being named Best Female Artist at the International Acoustic Music Awards. Freebo and Alice have been working as a duo since 2017, and he produced her latest record Circumstance, recorded at iconic FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Their new album Alice Howe & Freebo Live is the duo's first joint release. Recorded in front of a small live audience in Port Townsend, WA, it debuted as the #1 Most Played Album on Folk Radio. When these two get together, prepare yourself for an extraordinary evening of song and smiles, and maybe a tear or two. Powerful songwriting, mesmerizing vocals, outstanding musicianship, and a palpable camaraderie make for an experience unsurpassed on the contemporary acoustic scene. - Ron Olesko, The Folk Music Notebook Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

'Holly Carter is an award-winning songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Bristol, UK. Two-time recipient of Instrumentalist of the Year at the Americana UK awards (2023 & 2024) she is widely recognised as an exceptional fingerstyle guitarist and one of the UK's only professional female pedal steel players. Drawing deeply from the well of the folk tradition, she harnesses an approach to song as a powerful tool for education and the preservation of legacy. Along with a showstopping approach to guitar that follows hot on the heels of the likes of Chet Atkins and John Fahey, her music weaves joyously catchy melodies with thought-provoking lyrics that pay homage to a diverse collection of musical and personal heroes. Her upcoming release Leave Your Mark centres around a celebration and exploration of the ways we can leave our mark on the world after weve gone. Blending timeless storytelling with a distinct modern voice, the album showcases an impactful collection of songs that presents a truly original take on the landscape of folk and Americana. Recorded live and directly to tape at Middle Farm Studios in Devon - and accompanied by lino printed artwork designed and hand cut by Holly - it endeavours to capture a moment in time, in its most raw and honest state. Holly will be joined by Joe Wilkins on guitar for this intimate show.' Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

Widely recognized as one of the UK's classiest jazz and swing singers and double bassists, Nicola Farnon is embarking on an exciting new venture that showcases her versatility as both a musician and songwriter. Known for her infectious passion, swinging style, and charismatic stage presence, Nicola has spent over 30 years captivating audiences across the UK and beyond. From Glastonbury to international tours and BBC Radio 3 appearances, she has shared stages with jazz legends like Dave Newton, Digby Fairweather, Jim Mullen, and Alan Barnes, and performed alongside stars such as Eliane Elias, Courtney Pine, and Georgie Fame. Now, Nicola is exploring a fresh and intimate direction with a new piano trio line-up - leaving her double bass behind for the evening. Accompanying herself on piano for the first time, Nicola is joined by Sheffield's own - the wonderfully talented Chris Walker on guitar and Amir Hekmat on percussion - to help her reimagine her original songs. Blending soul, jazz, gospel, country and folk influences, the trio offers a heartfelt and stripped-back approach to Nicola's music, highlighting the emotional depth and artistry she's become known for. This new chapter builds on a decade of musical evolution for Nicola, and has led to her venturing into more eclectic territories with her originals bands The Made Ups and The Make Ups in recent years. The trio's debut performance at Café #9 is a unique opportunity to experience Nicola's creative journey in one of Sheffield's most intimate and atmospheric venues. With a remarkable musical pedigreeprofessional classical musician parents and the late Robert Farnon as her great-uncleNicola's career began with the cello and piano before she fell in love with jazz in her twenties. Her extraordinary versatility, coupled with her ability to connect deeply with audiences, makes this special performance one not to miss. Tickets are limited, so book now to secure your seat for this unforgettable evening! "We were like putty in her hands. She has the unique talent to make it appear that each song that she sings is just for you, and that it is the very first time that she has ever sung it. She is the ultimate professional, with a charismatic personality that is rare in all but the top artists". Big Band Buddies Magazine Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.

JASON MCNIFF is a troubadour who has made eight albums which people call Folk, or Americana, or Alt. Country. There is an Englishness in his guitar playing however, and you might like to think of Bert Jansch or Wizz Jones meeting John Prine & Townes Van Zandt. Time Out writes, 'McNiffs intimate, fragile-sounding vocals draw you into his world, an almost timeless place, through which he drifts, a romantic loner, a dreamer, at home with the blues.' He is often touted as one of the UKs most overlooked musical treasures, as a songwriter and fingerstyle guitarist. His latest album 'Dust of Yesterday' came out in 2021 and was album of the week in The Times. In 2025, he was voted best male artist at Fatea magazine 'An Immense talent' Janice Long, BBC Radio 2. 'Uk's premier fingerstyle guitarist' MOJO ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★\★★★ Please note this ticket price DOES include a BYOB fee should you wish to bring alcohol to the venue. All additional purchases of drinks and sweet treats from the cafe counter are always very much appreciated.