Now resident in Scotland, the respected Geordie songwriter performs with his band The Daintees. For Martin Stephenson, it’s not a career, it’s a lifetime calling, and his restless troubadour spirit has now amassed an extraordinary catalogue of 40 albums.

Nominated for Musician of the Year and for Best Album with Vagrant Stanzas at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards 2014, Martin's shows are intense, eclectic, spellbinding and deeply moving. There is no doubt that after 35 years as a professional musician Martin is better than ever. Widely acknowledged as one of the finest acoustic and slide guitar players in the world, his interpretations of traditional songs are masterpieces of storytelling. Martin has been nominated an astounding 31 times in the 15 years of the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards -- more than any other performer -- with 12 nominations for Musician of The Year, which he has won twice. 2008 saw an incredible five nominations for 'Prodigal Son' and two wins, whilst in 2010 he had an unprecedented six nominations for his CD, True Stories and a win for Best Traditional Track, 'Sir Patrick Spens'. Whether playing American old-time music, blues, a Dylan song or his own material, Martin Simpson is unpredictable, individual and a guitarist of immense subtlety.

Track Dogs have been sweeping the UK summer festival scene leaving behind a dancing army of new fans in every port. Based in Madrid Track Dogs comprise of two Irish men, an English man and an American who have come together and blur the lines of genres so beautifully to create something so unique that on paper just shouldn't work,.but OH BOY does it ever. Delivered with stunning 4 part harmonies to accompany guitar, bass, banjo, mandolin, uke and a trumpet Track Dogs are a force of nature with a style unto themselves. The infectious latino beats merge in seamlessly into americana, folk and a sprinkle of bluegrass that your couldn't stop your body moving to if your life depended on it. Join us for an evening fiesta you will be talking about long after stage lights go out.

Sweet soulful music from a remarkable band with a remarkable front man. Andy Fairweather Low shot to fame as lead singer in Amen Corner singing massive hits like Bend Me Shape Me, Hello Suzy and (If Paradise is Half As Nice. A hugely successful solo career followed with Wide Eyed And Legless being the biggest international hit from his three solo albums. One of the most respected musicians in the world, Andy has played guitar with more legendary artists than most people can name; Eric Clapton, George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, The Band, Roger Waters… and hundreds more. Andy now tours the world together with his band: Ian Jennings (bass and vocals); Paul Beavis (drums); Nick Pentelow (sax and clarinet); and Richard Milner (organ).

One of the most lauded singer-songwriters of her generation, Dar Williams has been captivating audiences with her sheer elegance and honesty in her folk-pop songwriting since the early '90s. As documented on her last album, the 2012 In The Time Of Gods,, Williams’ growth as an individual over her almost two-decade-long career has gone hand-in-hand with her evolution as an artist. She has toured with such distinguished artists as Joan Baez, Patty Griffin, Ani DiFranco, and Shawn Colvin. Lucy Wainwright Roche opens the show. "Dar Williams, one of America's very best singer-songwriters… Her songs are beautiful. Some are like finely crafted short stories. They are, variously, devastatingly moving, tenderly funny, subtle without being in any way inaccessible, and utterly fresh—not a cliché or a clunker in her entire songbook." -The New Yorker "Known for her lyrical, evocative songwriting and singing…Ms. Williams has been a leading figure in the folk-rock world for nearly 20 years." -Wall Street Journal "Seasons change, but Williams remains both ambitious and pleasingly plainspoken." -Rolling Stone "A new generation of pop-folk enthusiasts lauds her as one of the genre's central figures." -Paste "One of our most thoughtful singer-songwriters." -New York Daily News

At the forefront of the UK’s world and roots music scene matching fiery intensity with exquisite finesse.

From the formative origins of a small mill town in Maine and now long-time resident of Nashville, Rod Picott has generated a loyal cult audience across the U.S. and Europe. He is a wordsmith that needs to be heard. His tours continue to receive rave reviews for his songwriting skills, his darkly humorous and compelling live performances.

Endless Hum & Mek Summat Saturday 28th June Were excited to announce our first ever collaboration with local legends Meksummat; renowned for hosting a plethora of gigs, markets and general fun stuff, supporting local artists and performers. This year were doing things a little differently. Well have all of the usual live projections, merchandise, craft ale on tap, food vendors and record stalls but this time its taking place at everyone's favourite time capsule, the Caroline Street Social, Saltaire. PERFORMING : Demdike Stare / Nik Colk Void / Gum Takes Tooth / The Eurosuite / Sweet Williams / REALITY / Video Evidence

With her impeccably tuned voice and crafted songs, Boston singer-songwriter Alice Howe is at once timeless, personal and universal. Alice's musical sensibility draws comparisons with the pure distilled sounds of Joan Baez and Joni Mitchell. Alice will be accompanied by the world renowned bassist and acoustic guitarist Daniel Friedberg (Freebo), who has played with Bonnie Raitt, Neil Young and Loudon Wainwright, among others. As for Alice, her voice is as beautiful as a bell, classic in that Joan Baez way - transporting and wistful, her vocal mastery and musicality are beyond her years and her songs stay in your head for days.

From The Mississippi Delta - Bronwynne Brent (Trio format) Female Vocalist of The Year - AmericanaUK A Peggy Lee-like groove" - The Daily Express "Absolutely gorgeous - really special!" - Bob Harris, BBC Spilling the tea of love and reading the leaves has been the leitmotif of Bronwynne Brent’s work for nearly a decade. “I know,” she sighs, folding into a southern drawl, “it’s not like I sit down and try to write love songs, but what else is more important than love?” Lauded by American Songwriter Magazine as “captivating”, Brent’s last release, Stardust, saw her voted Female Performer of the Year twice in a row by Americana UK and called up for television and radio appearances on the BBC. For her latest album, Undercover, the Greenville, Mississippi, native setup shop at Brooklyn’s legendary Daptone Studios. Conjured up with trusted collaborator and producer Johnny Sangster, Undercover is a deep Southern roux, combining simple elements of folk, blues, and jazz into a complex and flavorful brew of truth-imbued Americana. A multi-instrumentalist, industry veteran behind albums for Maggie Bjorklund and Mudhoney, Sangster brought in Mikey Post (drums) and Benny Trokan (bass) to fill out her sound. In an unlikely combination with Sangster, Post and Trokan, better known as the runaway engine rhythm section behind the 60s revivalist garage-pop of Reigning Sound, lay a thick, soulful foundation for Brent’s folk songs. The result recalls the soul-burners of 1960s Muscle Shoals and country-folk stingers like Bobbie Gentry’s Ode To Billie Joe. “I Know It’s Late” introduces Brent’s deep, soothing voice, and the band’s driving chops, while she sings “I can’t quit a good thing, before my good thing goes bad, everybody knows a good thing when they see it, good things don’t last”. She bookends the album with the empowering “I Walked Away”, declaring “I walked away, I don’t regret a single word I said,’’ singing vertiginous high notes over a brain-jangling guitar break and in-pocket backbeat. Undercover sees the once reclusive folk singer from the deep south becoming a bandleader and blues balladeer. Using her world of experience to poke out small town prying eyes amid a groovy, organ heavy title track, she’s positively funky lamenting old habits on “Walking Relapse.” On a bluesy cover of Chuck Willis’ “Whatcha Gonna Do When Your Baby Leaves You”, Brent celebrates the forward-looking 1950’s artists patented rock ‘n’ stroll. Her interpretation of Belgian crooner Jacques Brel’s “If You Go Away” matches the emotional complexity and sardonic intensity that made Brel himself famous. She discovered the track listening to Nina Simone records, and brought in another frequent collaborator, cellist Barb Hunter, to arrange strings into a symphony strong enough to make it a James Bond theme. Brent’s deftness for inhabiting the perspective of a wronged lover makes her voice extra poignant on her songs about trauma bonds. “I don’t play the blues,” says Brent, “but I’m definitely singin’ ‘em!” Helmed by Brent’s singular, bold, alchemical voice, Undercover is a ferocious amalgam of American roots music, at once devastating and empowering. It’s Bronwynne Brent’s best recording, made at a studio famous for its soul, by a band known for revitalizing rock ‘n’ roll.

Must-see, not only for any Adele fans, but also anyone wishing to enjoy an evening of hit-packed entertainment. Natalie's unrivalled likeness in both vocal quality and appearance will make this a night to remember. Natalie's meticulously crafted resemblance has resulted in many screen appearances, including a cameo role in the 2020 hit film Greed, alongside Steve Coogan; ITV's This Morning, and the video for the Christmas No1 by LadBaby. So, come and see what all the fuss is about, and get involved in a night of pure fun and entertainment not to be missed.

Taking inspiration from their roots in the Irish and English traditions, Flook have an enviable trademark sound, weaving and spinning traditionally rooted tunes over precise acoustic grooves, with a rare blend of fiery technical brilliance, delicate ensemble interaction and a bold, adventurous musical imagination. There is certainly no shortage of virtuosity amongst the members of Flook, but the unique impact of this band stems from the wholly intuitive, almost symbiotic, exchange between the various flutes, frets and skins.

Much lauded US singer-songwriter Courtney Marie Andrews will be joining Melting Vinyl/Quarterhouse for this very intimate special headline show. After more than a decade on the road, the Phoenix-born songwriter, poet, and painter finally had the space to process all the highs and lows of a life of constants. She was finally ready to make a record of triumph, while not completely forgetting the years that made her.That record is her last album Loose Future. Her early pursuits led to her playing in punk bands in high school before becoming a touring member of Jimmy Eat World at just 18 years old, and from there Courtney went on to release a series of acclaimed albums. She garnered her first GRAMMY® Award nomination in the category of “Best Americana Album” for 2020's "Old Flowers’’. Meanwhile, the record closed out 2020 on year-end lists from Good Morning America, Magnet, and Uncut. This is an 18+ event.

Innovator, award winning, multi-instrumentalist Malin Lewis marries West coast groove with a newly invented, self-made bagpipe alongside stars Sally Simpson (Fiddle) and Ali Hutton (Guitar). Malin will perform tracks from their SAY Award nominated album Halocline as well as several brand new pieces inspired by the flora and fauna of the Highlands. Malin's unique timbre is born from the deep connection that comes from making and composing for their own instrument. Their one of a kind two-octave Smallpipe creates a whole new world of sound, captivating audiences at every opportunity.

Quarterly cabaret of musical comedy. Doors open 7pm. Includes a raffle for a local mental health charity - bring cash for raffle tickets. If you have friends booking their own seats please email [email protected] with your requests to sit wth them.

For folksinger Willi Carlisle, singing is healing. And by singing together, he believes we can begin to reckon with the inevitability of human suffering and grow in love. On his latest album, Critterland, Carlisle invites audiences to join him: “If we allow ourselves to sing together, there's a release of sadness, maybe even a communal one. And so for me personally, singing, like the literal act of thinking through suffering, is really freeing,” he says. Rooted in the eclectic and collective world of his live shows, Carlisle’s third album, Critterland takes up where his sophomore album, Peculiar, Missouri left off, transforming Peculiar’s big tent into a Critterland menagerie and letting loose the weirdos he gathered together. The album is a wild romp through the backwaters of his mind and America, lingering in the odd corners of human nature to visit obscure oddballs, dark secrets and complicated truths about the beauty and pain of life and love. Produced by the GRAMMY Award-nominated Darrell Scott and released Jan. 26, 2024 by Signature Sounds, Critterland considers where we come from and where we are going. On the album, he takes on human suffering through stories about forbidden love, loss, generational trauma, addiction, and suicide, believing that by processing the traits and trauma we inherit, he can reach a deeper understanding of what it means to succeed and to exist. Presented by Love Thy Neighbour. This is an 18+ event

An evening with Janet Jayne with her tribute to Tina Turner plus a set of all your Mow-town favourites Doors Open at 7pm and bar serves until 11.30pm

Pleasure Grounds and Spacetrash present a Nitegardenz event in the lovely garden at the Caroline Featuring 3 excellent reps of the burgeoning Bradford Electropop scene! Augustin Bousfield 'Augustin, is an absolute whirlwind of a talent!' Amy Lame 6music 'West Yorkshire musical polymath, Augustin Bousfield who we love' Stuart Maconie - 6Music 'You'll totally be infected by the Bousfield Boogie Bug. Jumbo Records 'Serene horizon of soul-cresting electro - Louder than War Augustin Bousfield's music is a fascinating blend of progressive synth-pop, funk, and retro-futuristic electronic sounds. His style is often described as a mix of Max Tundra, John Grant, Hall & Oates, and Syd Barrett, with elements of kosmische rock, avant-pop, and IDM. His influences range from Ryuichi Sakamoto to Kraftwerk, and his compositions often feature keytar-driven melodies, intricate synth arrangements, and experimental electronic textures. His latest album, Anymoor, showcases his ability to fuse chip-tuned beats, frazzled funk, and progressive synth elements into a cohesive and engaging sound. Bousfield has also collaborated with artists like Saint Etienne, co-writing and producing their recent albums. He's also in local progpop heroes, 'Gurgles' His work spans multiple genres, from psychedelic pop to electronic minimalism, making his music both unpredictable and deeply immersive. He's also had multiple 6music plays and even presented a couple of 6music shows. https://linktr.ee/augustinbousfield Flash Cassette Electronic music sitting somewhere between Funkadelic & Sega Megadrive. https://linktr.ee/flashcassette Expo 92 https://expo92.bandcamp.com/ Bookended, begun and ended by fab all vinyl DJ- Anne Marie Doors 7.15 6 of your earth pounds NB this gig is outside

Robert Vincent is one of the most acclaimed new voices on the Americana music scene. Born in Crosby Liverpool, his upbringing inculcated him with a very Merseyside culture of storytelling and language. In 2013 Robert Vincent released his debut album Life in Easy Steps. Critically well received, the title track was play-listed by Radio 2. After meeting Whispering Bob Harris at an event called ‘Bluebird at the Bluecoat’ that brought the concept of the bluebird cafe in Nashville to The Bluecoat Chambers in Liverpool, the legendary radio presenter invited Robert to perform a live session on his Radio 2 show and in 2016 awarded him with his ‘Emerging Artist’ of the year award at the inaugural UK Americana Awards show in Hackney London. In 2018 his Sophomore album ‘I’ll Make the Most of my Sins’ was named UK Americana Album of the Year. Meeting and performing with musical director Ethan Johns at the award ceremony would shape his future career. In February of 2018 Robert was invited to perform on the BBC ‘Old Grey Whistle Test, For One Night Only’ closing the show. It was this performance that would propel him to number 1 and 2 in the iTunes Album and Singles Charts. Robert's latest release ‘In this Town You’re Owned' charted at number 2 in the UK Americana Charts been critically praised both in the UK and Europe and USA. At the midway point of the year American Songwriter Magazine named ‘In this Town You’re Owned’ in its top 20 albums (every genre) of 2020 to date. ‘In This Town You’re Owned’ has also picked up Americana Music Association UK Album & Artist of The Year 2021, plus Americana UK Album & Artist of the Year 2020.