Sometimes folk, sometimes not. India Electric Company use traditional instruments in contemporary styles to explore diverse themes from Eastern Europe, Irish traditions and urban alienation to end up with something “quirky and glittery - a veritable musical magpie’s nest.” - Mary Ann Kennedy, BBC Radio 3. After releasing their debut debut album The Girl I Left Behind Me in 2015 they began extensively supporting and accompanying Midge Ure throughout Europe. They performed live sessions on BBC Radio 2, 6 Music, as well as playing the likes of Glastonbury Festival and Cambridge Folk Festival. Currently they are embarking on their first tours of Australia, New Zealand, Scandinavia and Ireland to coincide with the release of their latest recordings.

Damien OKane & Ron Block The BANJOVIAL Tour Prepare to be mesmerized by the extraordinary collaboration of Damien OKane and Ron Block, two of the most innovative banjo players and resonant singers in the world today. With their groundbreaking albums Banjophony and Banjophonics (what a gob full!) and the thrilling third album out in October, these virtuosos have created a breathtaking union of Irish tenor banjo and 5-string bluegrass banjo, forging a sound that is as thrilling as it is unprecedented. They will be on the road October 2025 with a brand new, much anticipated album called Banjovial! Damien OKane, renowed for his work with Barnsley songstress Kate Rusby, a maestro of Irish traditional music, brings dazzling precision and melodic brilliance to the tenor banjo, an instrument central to his Irish roots and one in which he is considered one of the greatest players around the globe. Meanwhile, Ron Block, famed for his work with Alison Krauss & Union Station, infuses his signature 5-string bluegrass banjo with soulful depth, rhythmic innovation, and unmatched artistry. Together, their styles intertwine in an exhilarating dance of technical mastery and heartfelt expression. From the first notes of Banjophony to the innovative explorations of Banjophonics to the pinpoint picking of Banjovial, these albums and their live shows redefine what banjos can achieve. The blending of traditions results in music that is at once rooted in history and boldly modern. Their arrangements soar with energy, intricate interplay, and a shared passion that is palpable in every note. Both Damien and Ron are not only world-class musicians but also distinctive singers, whose voices add warmth and texture to their already remarkable soundscapes. Critics and fans alike have hailed this collaboration as a revolution in acoustic music. As innovators at the peak of their powers, OKane and Block prove that the banjo is not merely an instrument of tradition but a vehicle for limitless creativity and joy. Experience their brilliance live as they tour with their stellar band, featuring Scotland's Duncan Lyall on bass and moog and Ireland's Steven Byrnes on guitars and percussion. Step into the world of Co-operating banjos where boundaries dissolve and musical magic begins. "I challenge banjo non-believers not to be charmed." The Journal of Music "I was utterly blown away by these guys. Exquisite musicianship. My gig of the year." Ralph McTell "inspirationala new and innovative sound. The energy, groove and technique on will inspire musicians of any genre." Gerry Banjo OConnor As ever there will be a warm St Nick's welcome, our famous reasonably priced licensed gig bar, and a brilliant night of music in a very special building. Hope you can make it.

ABOUT THIS EVENT Gareth returns to Beverley for a special night of Christmas music here at St Nicholas' Church. Gareth writes: Every year Ive been putting aside time in December to do some very special gigs on the theme of Advent and Christmas. Music has always been an integral part of the Christmas season for me, yet often the carols and songs drift by on a high street wave of over-familiarity that takes away the original potency and impact their writers intended. So, armed with fresh interpretations, arrangements and melodies, and with a little background on the writers themselves, I hit the road with some of the best known seasonal works. Therell be a few singalongs and some musical surprises, but most of all the intent is to help people listen afresh and encounter the wonder and mystery that perhaps goes missing in an increasingly commercial incarnation of Christmas. In response, people have said to me how theyve appreciated some time away from the hustle and bustle, to sit back and re-engage. The material is drawn from my two Christmas albums Nine Lessons and The Darkest Midnight in December. The aim is to enjoy the music, hear the stories, relax in good company and reconnect with a story that has often been buried too deeply amongst our headlong rush to December 25th. As ever, there will be a great St Nick's welcome, a licensed bar, and a fantastic night of music.