The List

The Kitchen Garden

The Kitchen Garden Café is a tranquil oasis in the heart of Kings Heath’s busy shopping centre, combining a garden shop, café, deli and meeting room surrounding an old blue brick courtyard. At the licensed Café you’ll find a variety of delicious and wholesome things to eat, all freshly made right here, including an A la Carte Menu on Thursday to Saturday evenings and Sunday lunch. We have a separate children’s menu and small play area. We try to use the best seasonal, local and fairly-traded produce, including organics where we can, to ensure that the cooking retains all the real flavour of good food. There’s also a Deli where you can purchase organic, fair-trade and locally sourced food to take home, including organic wines, beers & spirits, plus jams and preserves made in our own kitchen. You can hire our meeting room or even the whole café for your meetings, celebrations and events. We can supply hot and cold buffets to suit a range of budgets. We also host live music, comedy and poetry including regular events such as Laughing Cows (all female comedy nights), The Retort Cabaret Show (an eclectic mix of music, comedy, poetry and alternative cabaret). Storytelling Café (bringing storytelling back to adult audiences) and Poetry Bites.

What's On @ The Kitchen Garden

The Sounds of Simon

The Sounds of Simon

8 May 2025 - 11 Nov 2025

Old Friends: Together and Apart. As seen on BBC The One Show! The Sounds of Simon is a tribute to the wonderful music of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, through the years as Simon and Garfunkel, to the successes of both their solo careers. Explore the friendship that led to songs such as Mrs Robinson, The Sounds of Silence and of course, Bridge Over Troubled Water. The full band will also take you through the pair's solo careers, with songs such as You Can Call Me Al, Graceland, and Art's smash hit, Bright Eyes. Paul and Art are played to perfection, bringing in elements of their famously fractious relationship, as well as replicating the beautiful harmonies flawlessly. With video clips, stories, and memories from the last 50+ years, this is a wonderful show filled with excellent music, nostalgia, and a genuine love for some great musicians. This is the UK's longest running tribute to Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel. Come and see why!
Simply Dylan

Simply Dylan

3 May 2025 - 17 Jan 2026

John O'Connell’s Simply Dylan Band will be back for a brand-new headline tour across the UK to celebrate Bob Dylan’s 80th Birthday. As straightforward as the title suggests: no frills, no gimmicks, no pretense; Simply Dylan is John’s personal exploration and celebration of the rich and diverse work of Bob Dylan. O'Connell, formerly of Groundpig, has had his name indelibly written into the tapestry of Liverpool's music scene, has collaborated with other highly reputable musicians to form his Dylan Band. This is a tribute show.
Edwina Hayes

Edwina Hayes

21 May 2025 - 21 Nov 2025

Edwina's beautifully written songs, charming stage presence and voice of an angel have won her a reputation as a true natural talent of gentle folk-Americana. She has played everywhere from Glastonbury Festival to The Royal Albert Hall
Chris Wood

Chris Wood

8 May 2025 - 5 Oct 2025

Chris Wood is an uncompromising writer whose music reveals his love for the unofficial history of the English speaking people. With gentle intelligence he weaves the tradition with his own contemporary parables. A self-taught musician, composer and song writer, Chris is a lifelong autodidact whose independent streak shines through everything he does. Always direct and unafraid to speak his mind, his song writing has been praised for its surgical clarity. He cites his major influence as Anon. On stage Chris has the air of a craftsman who no longer needs to be precious about his art. Without any apparent effort he reaches deep into an enviable repertoire of songs before revealing another gem.
Martin Harley

Martin Harley

9 Nov 2025 - 7 Dec 2025

Martin Harley is a supremely talented acoustic roots and blues guitarist, singer and songwriter with a burgeoning global reputation. Renowned for his prowess as a slide guitarist, Martin is almost unique in the UK in his playing lap slide. During year-round worldwide touring he’s absorbed a plethora of diverse influences, honing his craft into the classic song-writing style he possesses today. In the US, Martin has headlined Music City Roots in Nashville and toured coast to coast with ZZ Ward, Delta Rae and opened for Iron and Wine, Bruce Hornsby, Five for Fighting, World Party, Beth Hart, Joe Bonamassa amongst many others.
Blackheart Orchestra

Blackheart Orchestra

9 Oct 2025 - 9 Oct 2025

Award-winning British songwriters, composers and multi-instrumentalists Chrissy Mostyn and Rick Pilkington are The Blackheart Orchestra. One of the must-see bands pioneering folktronica duo blend musical styles seamlessly sidestepping boundaries to create music huge enough to fill a cathedral. Always producing something beyond all easily marketed genres, their multi-instrumental sonic landscapes have always been too unpredictable and adventurous for the mainstream. Fusing acoustic fragility and pulsing electronica, The Blackheart Orchestra bring together stringed instrument dexterity with 80's synthesisers and clear classical influences. Often mistaken for an eight-piece band on first listen, they are found on stage continuously changing from electric and acoustic guitars, bowed guitar, piano, organ, bass and electronic percussion to vintage synthesisers, omnichord and melodica in a complex choreographed weave of musical moods and textures. One moment their sound is minimal and molecular, the next a mountain-like wall of sound with vast symphonic climaxes. Their four critically acclaimed albums and mesmerising live shows have won them obsessive worldwide fans, plaudits from musical giants and placements on TV commercials and films. Chrissy Mostyn's haunting vocals, the Mike Oldfield-like multi-instrumental playing of Rick Pilkington plus their fearless combination of conventional and unconventional all reflect their self-created universe where art meets sound and words paint pictures that take you with them on their deep musical journey into the human psyche.
Vinny Peculiar Band

Vinny Peculiar Band

31 May 2025 - 31 May 2025

Vinny Peculiar [aka Alan Wilkes] grew up in Worcestershire and trained as a nurse before signing to Manchester cult label Ugly Man records [former home to Elbow]. He's since put out fourteen albums of literate autobiographical pop music over a twenty-year career touring band, solo and duo shows in the UK, Ireland, Europe and the US. Variously described as an under sung national treasure [UNCUT] a warm hearted Morrissey [Q Magazine] and the missing link between Jarvis Cocker and Roger McGough [Irish Times] past work associations include Bill Drummond [KLF] and his various bands have included ex members of The Smiths, OASIS, Aztec Camera & The Fall. He's written and recorded as Parlour Flames, the band he formed in 2013 with ex OASIS rhythm guitarist Bonehead.
Astrid Williamson

Astrid Williamson

6 May 2025 - 7 May 2025

Shetland born singer-songwriter Astrid Williamson returns to Brighton to promote her tenth studio album, Shetland Suite, a collection of traditional songs and instrumentals reimagined for the 21st century. Shetland Suite comprises of an evocative fusion of folk, electronics and field recordings and is due for release on Incarnation Records in September 2024.
Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman

Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman

3 May 2025 - 23 Oct 2025

This popular, multi award-winning husband and wife duo exude timeless class with their exquisite brand of traditional and contemporary music. Duos come and duos go… and some nurture and fine tune their art and watch it grow into something totally original and captivating. For over a quarter of a century Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman’s partnership has proved personal, permanent and pivotal. From early days in folk supergroup ' Equation ' through to their most recent work, acclaimed as ‘Their best yet’, with a nod or two along the way to their extra-curricular musical adventures, the evening promises a whistle-stop tour through their artistic journey to date.
Abigail Lapell and Steph Cameron

Abigail Lapell and Steph Cameron

11 May 2025 - 11 May 2025

From the same stable as the Be Good Tanyas / Frazey Ford, Canadian singer-songwriters Abigail Lapell and Steph Cameron bring their music to the UK. Abigail's album Anniversary (released , 05/ 24) will have a deluxe version released during February, 2025. Steph's album Blood Moon gets its release during April, 2025. Expect traditional folk from a modern pop perception. Abigail Lapell Call it Prairie Noir or Canadiana Desert Rock: Abigail Lapell sings haunting, gorgeous modern folk songs. The Toronto songwriter and multi-instrumentalist returns with Anniversary, an evocative collection of original love songs. Co-produced with Great Lake Swimmers Tony Dekker, the album was recorded at 200-year-old St Mark's Church in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Dekker helped shape the sessions spooky, resonant sound and lent his voice to a couple of spellbinding duets. Dekker and Lapell assembled a stellar cast of musicians to support Lapell's powerhouse vocals, piano, harmonica and signature fingerstyle guitar. The ensemble's sensitive, orchestral country-jazz arrangements reveal the depth of Lapell's musical palette, balancing upbeat earworms with elegiac ballads. Over the past five years and three captivating albums, Lapell has won three Canadian Folk Music Awards, hit number one on Canadian folk radio and reached a staggering 48 million + streams across digital music platforms. Abigail writes songs that stop you right in your tracks. (Brooklyn Vegan). Abigail Lapell may be the best folk artist you haven't yet discovered. (KUTX (NPR)). Understated yet seductive. (No Depression). A disc of pure, impalpable beauty, weightless notes and melodies that pierce our hearts (Rolling Stone). Steph Cameron Saskatoon-based roots singer / songwriter Steph Cameron arrived on the scene like a bracing gust of fresh musical air with her 2014 debut record Sad-Eyed Lonesome Lady, receiving unanimously enthusiastic reviews. "This is a monumental, brilliant album heralds the crowning of a bright new talent," declared PopMatters in calling it the #1 Canadian album of 2014. No Depression termed it "a stunning debut", while Exclaim! noted that Sad-Eyed Lonesome Lady delights from start to finish. Steph Cameron is the real deal. Her new album Blood Moon (release April 2025), explores the glint of the earth and its spirit and speaks to our connection to the land sky and one another. The title, Blood Moon, describes the moon taking on a striking red hue and roots the subject of the album in awe of the natural world and that of human connection. "It's not unusual for artists plying an Americana trade to be likened to such names as Townes Van Zandt, John Prine and Bob Dylan, but the artists in question are usually men. It's rare for a female singer to attract such comparisons. Vancouver's Steph Cameron is both an exception and exceptional". (Folk Radio UK).
John Bramwell

John Bramwell

8 May 2025 - 30 Nov 2025

John Harold Arnold Bramwell, to give him his full name, is perhaps best-known for his time as the songwriter and frontman of Manchester three-piece, I Am Kloot. However, he also possesses an enviable back catalogue as a solo artist and continues to work on new material under the guise of his latest band, John Bramwell & The Full Harmonic Convergence. Bramwell’s first studio output appeared in 1989, when he was performing and recording as Johnny Dangerously and entitled You Me & The Alarm Clock, an album The Guardian referred to as one of the ‘greatest albums you’ve never heard.’ Following a stint as a television presenter and as a member of the band, The Mouth, Bramwell formed I Am Kloot, with two members of The Mouth. They went on to record six studio albums, including the Mercury-Prize nominated album, Sky At Night. Since 2016, Bramwell has reverted to being a solo artist and tours continuously, around the UK and Europe. A home-recorded solo album, Leave Alone the Empty Spaces appeared in 2018 and the follow-up, a more expansive affair, with a working title of The Light Fantastic, is now scheduled for release in 2022.
Attila The Stockbroker

Attila The Stockbroker

8 May 2025 - 21 Jun 2025

Mix of seating and standing. disabled access and toilet. Attila the Stockbroker launches Heart on my Sleeve, his new Collected Works Exploding into public consciousness in the early 1980s via two John Peel sessions and a Melody Maker front cover, poet, musician, journalist and political activist, Attila The Stockbroker, has spent forty years touring the world performing his unique brand of spoken word, poetry and music. Having played almost four thousand gigs in twenty four countries, releasing countless books and records along the way, Attila's Collected Works has just been published by Cherry Red Books, the book arm of the celebrated independent record label which released his early 80s albums and his 2015 autobiography Arguments Yard. 'Heart On My Sleeve' brings together Attila's collected poems and lyrics, celebrating the fortieth anniversary of his first appearance and a lifetime doing what he loves. All his early political punk poetry classics are here, the likes of 'A Bang And A Wimpy', 'Russians In The DHSS' and 'Contributory Negligence', alongside more recent favourites such as 'Asylum-Seeking Daleks', 'Poison Pensioner' and 'The Bible According to Rupert Murdoch'. This collection is testimony to Attila's broadening work over the years, packed full of intensely personal pieces alongside political satire and humour. 'Never Too Late', explores his reconciliation with his stepfather after thirty-seven years (as featured on Radio 3's 'The Verb' and Steve Lamacq's 6Music show), whilst listeners to Radio 4's'Poetry Please' may recall 'The Long Goodbye', the epic, fourteen minute poem to Attila's mother as she battled Alzheimer's Disease, which was twice broadcast on the show. Recent poems written during the first lockdown are included too. Featuring over a hundred and eighty works hand-picked by Attila himself, Heart On My Sleeve is a must-read compendium of social commentary, human observation and humour, all of it written with a passion and enthusiasm which only seems to grow as Attila passes through the years. 336 pages, illustrated by long-time collaborators Phill 'Porky the Poet' Jupitus, Womble, Dan Woods and Nick Staples. A legend of the international spoken word circuit, a long established Glastonbury regular, much loved at Brighton And Hove Albion Football Club, co organiser of Glastonwick popular beer and music festival, Attila The Stockbroker remains as focussed and active as ever, and continues to perform to audiences across the world, including a run of successful recent online lockdown shows. His message remains a simple one: you don't need to be 'a celebrity' to lead a life earning your living doing what you love to do. You just need a way with words, the self-confidence and organisational ability of Napoleon and skin thicker than the armour of a Chieftain tank. Heart On My Sleeve will be available at the gig along with Attila's earlier works. If you want a copy before then you can get one direct from Attila at attilathestockbroker.bandcamp.com or in any self-respecting bookshop.
Martin Stephenson & The Daintees

Martin Stephenson & The Daintees

10 May 2025 - 29 Nov 2025

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.
Peggy Seeger

Peggy Seeger

14 May 2025 - 2 Jun 2025

Peggy Seeger is a singer, songwriter, feminist, icon, muse – the undisputed queen of folk and political song. Now in her 80s, her performances, charisma and wit remain undiminished. Join Peggy and sons for a memorable evening featuring some of her and Ewan MacColl’s most treasured songs, readings from her highly acclaimed memoir ‘The First Time Ever’ and plenty of relaxed family banter.
Amelia Coburn

Amelia Coburn

9 May 2025 - 1 Jun 2025

BBC Radio Young Folk Awards Nominee, UKE Magazine Best Newcomer winner and now English Folk Expo Mentor Scheme participant, Amelia Coburn is a truly stunning solo performer who bears comparisons to Kate Bush and Nick Drake with beguiling original folk and jazz influenced songs (many of which have received national airplay on 6music, BBC Radio 2 and RTE1 in Ireland - she can count Mark Radcliffe and Tom Robinson as big fans) who has performed at Cambridge Folk Festival, Costa Del Folk in Ibiza and numerous other national and international events including sell out solo shows in her native North East and elsewhere as well as supporting a diverse range of artists including The Wedding Present, Steve Harley and the late folk legend Vin Garbutt.
Granny's Attic

Granny's Attic

18 May 2025 - 18 May 2025

With exceptional musicianship and boundless energy, Granny's Attic are going from strength to strength. Cohen Braithwaite-Kilcoyne (melodeon, anglo concertina, vocals), George Sansome (guitar, vocals) and Lewis Wood (violin, vocals) have honed their skills touring the UK and Europe since 2009. They are much loved by audiences up and down the country, with bookings everywhere from Cambridge Folk Festival to Cecil Sharp House. The trio have been heralded for their lively performances and skilled delivery of traditional material, playing with verve, energy and their own inimitable style. Though grounded in tradition, they are keen to push new boundaries by exploring fresh approaches and writing their own compositions. In October 2021, they released their latest album, The Brickfields, an instrumental collection that sees them reach new heights both as performers and composers. Described by Folk Radio as one of the most exciting and accomplished English folk acts on the scene right now, this outstanding trio can hold audiences in the palm of their hand. Their high-octane take on English folk has brought a whole new audience to the genre (The Irish Times). Great tunes, great energy, great arrangements, great stuff! (Jon Boden). A superb folk trio (RNR Magazine). Traditional folk music taken far beyond its parameters (Tykes News).
Nick Harper

Nick Harper

1 May 2025 - 18 Oct 2025

Nick Harper is one the UK's best kept musical secrets. Those who have witnessed the spellbinding, one-man show will tell you this. A childhood growing up surrounded by the musical prowess of some of the 60's most revered songwriters & musicians, not to mention being son of Roy Harper, along with 20 years of crafting songs & touring the land has spawned a truly one-off, original guitarist & songwriter who stands alone as a UK great, to be cherished & revered. For over two decades, he has been dazzling audiences, reviewers & fellow artists alike with his heady mix of virtuosity, boyish charm, showmanship & sheer bravado. An imagination bursting with ideas has seen Nick release 11 solo albums to critical acclaim, earning a Number 1 spot in the charts with the seminal hit 'Blue Sky Thinking'.
Another Audience without Jake Thackray
A new show celebrating the life and work of our finest and funniest wordsmith John Watterson is delighted to announce his show for 2025 Another Audience without Jake Thackray , celebrating the life, songs and wonderful wordsmithery of the great Yorkshire chansonnier. Without Jake. Leeds-born Jake Thackray (1938-2002) is increasingly recognised as being one of the greatest English songwriters of the twentieth century, a unique talent, whose songs are full of poetry, wit, irreverence and humanity. He became known to millions through his regular appearances in the 1960s and 1970s on programmes such as Braden's Week and That's Life. Since his death in obscurity there has been growing recognition of his genius and a resurgence of interest in his work. His admirers include Jarvis Cocker, Alex Turner, Don Black, Thea Gilmore, Cerys Matthews, Benjamin Clementine and Neil Gaiman. With John. John Watterson is the UK's leading performer of Jake's songs. As Fake Thackray he has toured with Fairport Convention and more recently with Jasper Carrott. John has performed at Latitude, Cropredy and the Edinburgh Fringe Festivals. He has also played for Jake's family. John has appeared many times on radio, including Radio 4's Great Lives, a Radio 2 documentary on Jake presented by Cerys Matthews and Radio 3's The Verb hosted by Ian McMillan. Recently was invited to appear on TVs Meet the Richardsons with Jon Richardson and Lucy Beaumont. The show will include many Jake classics (Sister Josephine, On Again On Again, The Bantam Cock and others), anecdotes from John's research into Jake's life for the recently published biography as well as some of the lost Thackray songs John has rediscovered and recorded on his CD, The Lost Will and Testament of Jake Thackray. Affectionate and skilful. Long may John continue (Sir Richard Stilgoe). Jake's songs are in safe hands (Ralph McTell). I am sure my old friend would be delighted (Jasper Carrott).
The Anna Howie Band

The Anna Howie Band

3 Jun 2025 - 3 Jun 2025

British Country singer-songwriter Anna Howie releases her album Good for Roses via the Absolute Label (Universal/Sony) on 18 April 2025, it was recorded at Peter Gabriel's Real World Studios, and produced by Kris Wilkinson Hughes (My Girl The River). Anna initially came to prominence with her debut The Friday Night Club which was born in lockdown, out of online sessions which garnered nearly two million views! As Anna says herself, she accidentally created a community, and she has kept it with her. Anna says of Good For Roses, These songs are about good things coming from tough times. Anna Howie is a veteran live performer and has spent time in Nashville honing her craft. Whilst in Music City she took in a songwriting camp with legendary writer Gretchen Peters and also recorded her EP An Idiot's Guide to Love, which was produced by Grammy Award Winning Producer/ Guitarist Bob Britt. Anna then teamed up with producer and multi instrumentalist Lukas Drinkwater to create The Friday Night Club. Anna Howie blends lyrical verve, innate musicality and a simple ability to connect with her listener: dig in "One of the Fastest rising stars on the scene" ( Maverick Magazine). "The Brightest Jewel in Americanas star-studded crown" (The Midlands Rocks) "Sassy..endearing puts you in mind of the wonderful Dolly Parton" (Music Republic Magazine). "Great songs and a fantastic band" (Michael Eavis). "Infectious, quirky, soulful, Anna will make you laugh, cry and everything else" (Rocking Magpie). "Delightfully Moving" (Fatea Magazine). "Terrific .. seek her out at the earliest opportunity" (Red Guitar Music). "Classy.. beautifully done" (folking.com).
Lauren Housley & The Northern Cowboys
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.
Sam Amidon

Sam Amidon

14 May 2025 - 27 May 2025

Sam Amidon is a New York troubadour, known for reworking traditional folk for the 21st century.
James Maddock

James Maddock

10 Jul 2025 - 17 Jul 2025

New York based singer songwriter returns for another show at Smokey Joes following 2 sell-out appearances in 2017 and 2018
Lucy Farrell and Catherine Maclellan

Lucy Farrell and Catherine Maclellan

1 May 2025 - 28 May 2025

Though they grew up half a world apart, multi-award-winning songwriters Catherine MacLellan (Prince Edward Island, Canada) and Lucy Farrell (Kent, England) connect through the quiet brilliance of their songcraft and the warm clarity of their delivery. Suspending time with their musical storytelling, Catherine and Lucy's songs journal the characters, landscapes and situations that populate their lives and the broader world, unravelling and reweaving the threads of history and tradition with the deftness and surety that has made such notable touring and recording artists, collaborators and festival stage guests.
How Sweet It Is

How Sweet It Is

10 Sept 2025 - 10 Sept 2025

James Taylor is the encapsulation of the best of American songwriting. His music has touched millions worldwide over his ongoing 55 year strong career and his music still stands up to the test of time. This year marks the 50th anniversary of How Sweet It Is which was a number 1 hit for Taylor selling over 1 million copies globally. Vernon James will be focusing on songs from Taylor's early catalogue, such as Sweet Baby James, Something In The Way She Moves, Fire and Rain and also more recent classics like the evocative Frozen Man. Vernon James performs the songs true to how they were written and in the spirit of James Taylor himself, with a soulful lilt. During this two hour show, you will be taken on journey back to simpler times and happily lose yourself in the dulcet tones and sweet melodies of the finest songs written in the last half century.
A Different Thread

A Different Thread

3 Jul 2025 - 27 Jul 2025

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.
Luke Concannon

Luke Concannon

2 Aug 2025 - 17 Oct 2025

Contemporary folk by the singer-songwriter from Leamington Spa and former member of Nizlopi, Luke Concannon was born to an Anglo-Irish home, full of folk and soul music. In his teens he got in to hip-hop, and today, his songs tell stories about social justice, spirituality, and intimacy.
Andy White

Andy White

18 May 2025 - 30 May 2025

An intimate up close evening with the Australia based, Belfast Born singer songwriter. A true 21st Century, perennial peripatetic troubadour, from Belfast, longtime resident of Melbourne, Andy White is one of Ireland's most accomplished and respected song-writers since his 1985 debut Stiff EP 'Religious Persuasion' and his 1986 first album, 'Rave On Andy White'. He's the 'A' in 'supergroup' ALT alongside Liam O'Maonlai (Hothouse Flowers) and Tim Finn (Crowded House). He's recorded with Peter Gabriel and toured in so many different combinations, published poems and prose. A longtime association with Womad as well as appearances at The Fleadh and Glastonbury means Andy's well used to large open air gigs, but he's equally at home in intimate spaces, where his beautiful songs, voice and musicianship shine and inspire. Forever touring, forever changing, forever Andy... Please note that the venue is located up stairs and may not be suitable for those with walking difficulties Please note that we operate a not talking policy when the acts are performing. Please be a considerate gig goer and don't spoil it for your fellow gig goers and the artists giving their all
Mark Radcliffe & David Boardman

Mark Radcliffe & David Boardman

25 May 2025 - 18 Jul 2025

Mark and David are singing, songwriting, strumming, and swigging buddies from the badlands of the Cheshire Plain. Radcliffe has been on BBC national radio since the early nineties and currently hosts the Radio 2 Folk Show and weekend breakfast on 6Music. He is also the author of five bestselling books, the latest being Crossroads – In Search Of The Moments That Changed Music. Previously a member of folk-rock bands The Family Mahone and Galleon Blast, he is currently one half of electronic duo UNE and drummer and lyricist for Americana band Fine Lines whose lead singer and guitarist is….. David Boardman. A consummate guitarist and guitar teacher, David cut his teeth on the rock circuit with Darktown Jubilee touring not only the UK but also North America and Canada. A gifted visual artist, Boardman met Radcliffe in their hometown of Knutsford where their writing partnership soon began to flourish. Their act is one of classic simplicity: two voices, two guitars, some great original songs, the odd carefully chosen cover and the occasional rambling anecdote. They have recently recorded their debut duo album First Light and have somehow managed to hit the sweet spot between David wanting to do dozens of takes before carefully selecting the best bits and Mark thinking it was alright the first time!
Niamh Regan

Niamh Regan

10 Jun 2025 - 13 Jun 2025

Niamh Regan first caught the attention of listeners with her 2020 debut Hemet, a strikingly collection that showcased her gift for penning folk-tinged songs with emotional depth and reflective sincerity. That album paved the way for a whirlwind of performances across Ireland, the UK, Australia, and beyond. Opening for artists such as CMAT, Villagers, John Grant, SOAK, Patrick Watson, James Vincent McMorror, and Sam Amidon, Regan honed her live performance chops and began to embrace the joy and catharsis of sharing her music with a wider audience.
Heather Ferrier

Heather Ferrier

14 Sept 2025 - 14 Sept 2025

Heather Ferrier completely charmed a packed Bridgwater Hall in Manchester for the opening ceremony of the 30th annual WOMEX in October 2024, with her disarming personality and virtuoso playing of the accordion, but when she put down the accordion and, without any music, gave a skilful exhibition of north of England clog dancing, the concert hall erupted. With captivating musicianship and a sound that is unapologetically her own, Heather Ferrier is a force to be reckoned with. An, "engaging talker and magnetic performer" (NARC magazine), the Stockport-born accordionist, clog dancer and composer is changing the perceptions of alt-folk and the accordion as an instrument, all on her own terms. Her latest EP 'Engine for the Sound' creates music that sets the accordion free from its stereotypes and, with an extended lineup of musicians, expresses everything Heather stands for, using powerful melodies and jazz-influenced harmony. Bold, passionate and enthralling, the EP has been played on BBC Radio 6 music, well as being favourably reviewed in local and national publications. Heather also performs as the Heather Ferrier Trio with guitarist Alasdair Paul and drummer Adam Stapleford. On stage, the trio's sound is an explosion of groove and melody that embellishes Heather's signature alt-folk style. Their combined medley of influences and genre-bending collaborations transcends the limits of contemporary instrumental folk music, employing Heather's distinct compositional style to create a show with both emotive and upbeat moments.
Reg Meuross

Reg Meuross

4 Jun 2025 - 7 Jun 2025

Reg Meuross brings to the stage a collection of extremely beautiful songs, performed with humour and depth, and sung with the voice of an angel. Reg has that rare gift of being able to touch people, through his songs and performance, on a really human level. His words and music paint pictures that remain with the listener long after the song has been sung.
The Weeping Willows (AUS)

The Weeping Willows (AUS)

3 Jul 2025 - 3 Jul 2025

3 x CMAA Golden Guitar, 2 x Australian Folk Music and Music Victoria Award winners, The Weeping Willows (Laura Coates and Andrew Wrigglesworth) are a couple of old souls, steeped in Bluegrass tradition and draped in Gothic Americana imagery. They regale their audiences with stories of sunshine and romance, God and The Devil, murder and decay. Real music. 2017-2023 saw The Weeping Willows nominated for 14 x CMAA Golden Guitar awards, 7 x Australian Folk Music Awards (AFMAs), 4 x Country Music Channel (CMC) awards, 2 x National Live Music Awards (NLMAs), performing an Official Showcase at AmericanaFest (USA) and appearing at Folk Alliance International (USA), Maverick Festival (UK), Port Fairy Folk Festival, National Folk Festival, Queenscliff Music Festival, Out On The Weekend and the Australian Americana Music Honours. In recent years they have supported Lukas Nelson & POTR (USA), Hayes Carll (USA), Iris DeMent (USA), Willie Watson (USA), Eilen Jewell (USA), Cory Branan (USA) and Kevin Welch (USA) and completed national and international tours in support of their three LPs, including sophomore album, Before Darkness Comes A-Callin, which received four-star reviews in Rolling Stone, The Australian and The Music. A Weeping Willows performance, whether live on location or caught on tape will always delight. a mature, courageous and beguiling experience. (No Depression). on the way to making some serious waves in Americana. (AmericanaUK). 'stunning acoustic guitar work, heavenly harmonies, and a haunting melody rooted in American Gothic. (Pop Matters). ★★★★ Rolling Stone, Rhythms Magazine, The Music and The Australian. Sheffield-based artist Banjo Jen is difficult to categorise but easy to fall for. Her unique brand of folky Americana, with insightful observations and an eclectic original repertoire, has seen her gain a growing reputation as one to watch on the UK singer-songwriter scene. With razor-sharp songwriting, percussive Appalachian step-dancing and engaging between-song banter, her refreshingly original live act is guaranteed to win the heart of every crowd. Tipped by Maverick magazine for a long musical career, Jen hit the ground running by playing fringe events in Austin TX during SXSW 2017 - just a couple of months after her first ever gig. She's since been selected by the Americana Music Association UK to showcase at both Red Rooster and The Long Road festivals, was invited to perform at Eagle Music / Deering Banjo Company's banjo event of the year, and has played numerous folk and Americana events and supported many touring British and international acts. There's a lot more to come from this charming Yorkshire songstress, so grab yourself some cowboy boots and come along for the ride. "Smart and sassy" (Maverick Magazine). "Fantastic ...we don't hear enough brilliant music like this on the radio" (BBC Radio Sheffield).
Simeon Hammond Dallas

Simeon Hammond Dallas

13 May 2025 - 13 May 2025

Simeon Hammond Dallas was born and raised in the rich musical and cultural melting pot of Camden Town. Growing up listening to her parent's eclectic record collection that spanned artists from The Cranberries to Ella Fitzgerald, her music traverses genres and is described by Holler Country as a no-f★★★'s-given distinctly millennial take on Americana and blues, that sounds like Bonnie Raitt would have if her songs had been written by Alanis Morissette.Through a catalogue filled with intersectional storytelling, Simeon Hammond Dallas gives voice to a generation wrangling with the complexities of modern life. After showcasing in Nashville at AmericanaFest, making her BBC Radio 2 live debut, and featuring on BBC 4's Woman's Hour, 2025 sees an exciting year for Simeon with her new EP Seventeen scheduled for release in May, accompanied by a debut UK headline tour. The EPs first single, Do I Die, takes her trademark Country-Blues sound in a more commercial direction, a country-tinged, sun-drenched instant classic bringing to mind Dreams era Fleetwood Mac or the classy country power pop of Cam (Holler). Produced by Fred Abbot (Noah and the Whale), Do I Die gained Simeon a Top 40 chart position on the UK Country airplay chart, secured a spot on the third biggest UK Apple Music editorial playlist Today's Country, and achieved radio play on multiple radio shows across the country, including BBC Scotland and Whispering Bob Harris Country show on Radio 2. Simeon Hammond Dallas was born and raised in the rich musical and cultural melting pot of Camden Town. Growing up listening to her parent's eclectic record collection that spanned artists from The Cranberries to Ella Fitzgerald, her music traverses genres and is described by Holler Country as a no-f★★★'s-given distinctly millennial take on Americana and blues, that sounds like Bonnie Raitt would have if her songs had been written by Alanis Morissette. Through a catalogue filled with intersectional storytelling, Simeon Hammond Dallas gives voice to a generation wrangling with the complexities of modern life. After showcasing in Nashville at AmericanaFest, making her BBC Radio 2 live debut, and featuring on BBC 4's Woman's Hour, 2025 sees an exciting year for Simeon with her new EP Seventeen scheduled for release in May, accompanied by a debut UK headline tour. The EPs first single, Do I Die, takes her trademark Country-Blues sound in a more commercial direction, a country-tinged, sun-drenched instant classic bringing to mind Dreams era Fleetwood Mac or the classy country power pop of Cam (Holler). Produced by Fred Abbot (Noah and the Whale), Do I Die gained Simeon a Top 40 chart position on the UK Country airplay chart, secured a spot on the third biggest UK Apple Music editorial playlist Today's Country, and achieved radio play on multiple radio shows across the country, including BBC Scotland and Whispering Bob Harris Country show on Radio 2. Her second studio EP, "Make It Romantic", was held to high acclaim by the likes of Americana UK, Earmilk, Folk Radio, and more. Simeon's 'star in the making (Lonesome Highway) only continues to rise, armed with a blazing lead guitar and a match for the best voices on the UK scene (Country Way Of Life), Simeon Hammond Dallas continues to prove 'she is the whole package (Neil McCormick, The Telegraph).
Katie Spencer

Katie Spencer

3 May 2025 - 8 Oct 2025

Like the expressionistic brushstrokes of a landscape painter, Katie Spencer conjures vivid landscapes through the medium of song. Curating intimate studies using her unique finger picked acoustic guitar style and an assured warm voice, Spencer underlines the sense of space that surrounds her home by the sea in Hornsea, East Yorkshire. The striking imagery that rings through her ethereal songs creates a universe of sound and storytelling. Her mesmerising live performances have seen her play world-renowned stages, at the likes of Cambridge Folk Festival and Celtic Connections as she assembles a dedicated fanbase from all corners of the country. At just 22 years old Spencer has built up an extremely respected profile within the national acoustic music scene, sharing the stage with musicians of outstanding calibre such as Danny Thompson and Ted McKenna, and continuing to receive glowing reviews of both her live performances and recorded works.
Dani Larkin

Dani Larkin

9 Jun 2025 - 9 Jun 2025

Dani Larkin is a songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist currently based in Belfast. Her debut album, Notes For A Maiden Warrior (2021), received widespread critical acclaim and catapulted Larkin to the international stage with performances at SXSW and WOMEX as well as tours with Snow Patrol, Lisa ONeill, Glen Hansard, and Rufus Wainright. Larkin has since collaborated with the Ulster Orchestra and RT Concert Orchestra and released Walking With Natives (2023) which saw her tour Australia, Korea, Finland, Canada, Ireland, the UK and a run of sold out shows at the Irish Arts Centre NYC. With television appearances on BBC 1, Virgin Media Ireland's Fanning At Whelans, Canada's CTV, alongside radio performances on BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour and RT Radio 1, Larkin has accompanied her songwriting prowess with insights into story and song taking the listener on a pathway to the beyond. With a profound performance at the RT Folk Awards coupled with her tours in Europe, Australia, Asia and North America, Larkin has been heralded as a must-see live performer on the national and international stage. Described as a beguiling and powerful, songwriter and virtuoso guitarist (Songlines Magazine) Larkin's live performances enrapture audiences within a seamlessly woven narrative within carefully considered sonic landscape. Hotly tipped singer-songwriter (Mark Radcliff BBC Radio 2). Electrifying singer-songwriter and folk award nominee (The Irish Times). One of the finest songwriters of our times (Sean Kelly, Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival).
Megson

Megson

26 Oct 2025 - 2 Nov 2025

Three times nominated in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and double winners of the Spiral Earth Awards Megson draw heavily on their Teesside heritage to create a truly unique brand of folk music. The husband & wife duo bring an infectious mix of heavenly vocals, lush harmonies and driving rhythmic guitars. Comprising Debs Hanna (Vocals, Whistle, Piano Accordion) and Stu Hanna (Guitar, Mandola, Banjo) Megson have gained fame on the British folk scene, not only for their arresting & intelligent songwriting, but for their exquisite musicianship and northern humour. As fRoots Magazine puts it ‘if you don’t like the music here then you have a problem’ .
Wayward Jane

Wayward Jane

5 Jun 2025 - 5 Jun 2025

Wayward Jane's music is a modern interpretation of American folk and Old Time traditions, blending roots music with fresh, nuanced arrangements and original songs. Their rich sound features fiddle, clawhammer banjo, double bass, guitar, wooden flute and close vocal harmonies. Wayward's live shows have a joyful energy, expressing the fine musicianship and playful chemistry of four long-time friends. Ranging in mood from bouncing, energetic tunes to tender and soulful songs, Wayward Jane tend to leave audiences with a glow in their hearts. Theyre just that bit different from anything else happening in Scotland! (BBC Radio Scotland's Travelling Folk).
Iain Matthews and Andy Roberts (Plainsong)
An evening with Iain Matthews, co-founder of Fairport Convention, founder of Matthews Southern Comfort and Plainsong and his Plainsong colleague Andy Roberts. Folk pioneer Iain Matthews will be playing songs from his new release, plus his vast back catalogue, including his rendition of 'Woodstock' which was UK No 1 hit single for him in 1970. Iain is an English musician and singer-songwriter. He was an original member of the British folk rock band Fairport Convention from 1967 to 1969 before leaving to form his own band, Matthews Southern Comfort, which had a UK number one in 1970 with their cover of Joni Mitchell's 'Woodstock'. In 1979, his recording of Terence Boylan's Shake It reached No. 13 on the US charts. Born in Barton-upon-Humber, Lincolnshire, Matthews was known in the 1960s as Ian MacDonald. He changed his name to Ian Matthews in 1968 to avoid confusion with Ian McDonald of King Crimson. In 1989 he changed the spelling of his first name to Iain, and has been known as Iain Matthews ever since. Influenced by both rock and roll and folk music, Matthews has performed solo and as a member of various bands. He was a member of Fairport Convention during the band's early period when they were heavily influenced by American folk rock and sang on their first three albums before leaving in 1969. He initially embarked upon a solo career before forming the bands Matthews Southern Comfort and Plainsong. Later in his career he was also a member of the bands Hi-Fi, No Grey Faith, and More Than a Song. Opening the show will be top midlands folk duo The Raconteurs.
Eve Sellis

Eve Sellis

22 Jul 2025 - 22 Jul 2025

A San Diego alt-country artist and five-times San Diego Music Awards winner. Eve isn't just a 'singer' - she's an emotion transducer who converts country, R&B, blues, folk, and rock 'n' roll signals into a megawatt zap that galvanizes everyone in its path. And as with fellow femme-furnace frontwomen Bonnie Raitt, Joan Osborne, Maria McKee, Melissa Etheridge, and Lydia Pense, the cauterizing power of Selis's voice can arc-weld material from almost any genre into a personal manifesto. New CD, Dark Sky Blue will be released on April 12th. Selis has been a singer for as long as she can remember - she grew up in the San Diego region and as a youngster began performing in her local church band, all the while dreaming of becoming a rock star. After an abortive spell at university studying musical theatre and English, Selis began a career performing, writing and recording her own music and has released 10 albums to date She has gigged at the infamous Abbey Road Studios, toured Europe, and her last studio album, See Me With Your Heart was produced by GRAMMY-award winning producer Kenny Greenberg (Allison Moorer, The Mavericks, Joan Baez).
Steve Wickham (Waterboys / NoCrows ) with Ray Coen (NoCrows)
Steve Wickham is an Irish musician best known for his work as a violinist. Although he may not be a household name in mainstream music, his talent has been sought after by many prominent bands and artists, ensuring a considerable input into contemporary music. Wickham was born in 1960 in Dublin, Ireland. He began playing the violin at a young age, and the classical training he received would lay the groundwork for his later accomplishments. His unique use of the violin to create distinct rock soundscapes has been seen as groundbreaking, earning him the nickname "the Jimi Hendrix of the violin." Although he had recorded and toured with Irish rockers, U2, having played Sunday Bloody Sunday on the War album in 1982/83 . Wickham's music really took off in 1984 when he joined The Waterboys bringing his Celtic influence to the rock band. His exemplary violin skills breathed a fresh life into the ensemble's music and helped shape their unique sound. Wickham's contribution to the band's seminal 1985 album, "This is the Sea," the album being particularly noted for his soaring violin on the track The Pan Within. His influence on the Waterboys ever evolving sound was more apparent on the subsequent Fisherman's Blues and Room to Roam albums. He has toured with various other bands, including Sinead O Connor and In Tua Nua displaying versatility across different musical genres and regularly performs throughout Europe with Sligo based group, The NoCrows. Aside from his work in bands, Wickham has also enjoyed a solo career. His debut album, "Geronimo," was released in 2004, showcasing his multitude of musical abilities. It was a critical success that firmly established him as a capable solo artist. Apart from his vibrant career, Wickham is deeply committed to his family. He is happily married and the father of three children. As of 2023, Steve Wickham continues to inspire with his music, acting as a key figure in Irish rock and influencing budding artists around the world with his unique amalgamation of rock and classical violin. Ray Coen hails from Drumiskabole, Ballisadare, County Sligo. The first thing he remembers is singing and dancing in the family kitchen. He got his first guitar at age 11, but didn't tune it until he was 13. Into his teens, he turned to electric guitar, playing Rock'n'Roll and Heavy Metal with his first bands Bad Taste and China Red. Eventually the Sligo traditional music scene started calling to him, and he started playing mandola, banjo and fiddle. In 2000 with Rodney Lancashire he recorded an album of traditional songs called Mactire. In 2002 he joined Deirde Byron-Smith, Anna Houston and Tommy Scanlon for the Cadenza album Attic Notes where he contributed original songs and tunes. 2009 saw his solo album Out of Sight released. Since then he has performed all over Ireland, England, Europe and Japan playing and recording original, traditional and World music. He is currently a member of The Craic Addicts, The Atlantic Orchestra and NoCrows.
Sons of Town Hall

Sons of Town Hall

12 Nov 2025 - 12 Nov 2025

A Sons of Town Hall show is more than a concert, it's an immersive experience unlike any other. American songwriter/author David Berkeley and British songwriter/producer Ben Parker are the men beneath the hats in the transatlantic folk duo. They're also the stars of the hilarious radio-theatre podcast series Madmen Cross the Water. Sons of Town Hall is creating an entirely new performance genre: Part live concept album, part performance art, the pair conjures their timeless mythic universe under the aliases Josiah Chester Jones and George Ulysses Brown, 19th-century vagabonds who travel the world in a hand-built boat to escape troubled pasts and search for adventure and love. The Sons weave wild stories between their heartbreaking and rousing songs, taking audiences on a deeply imaginative trip every show. For fans of Simon and Garfunkel, Tom Waits, and Monty Python alike, concertgoers are uplifted and inspired, transfixed and transformed, in awe of Sons of Town Hall's harmonies, and drunk on adventure and the tragic beauty of the human condition. "Seamless vocal harmonies...stories of sea voyages, betrayal and desolation... a more coherent concept youll be pushed to find" (The Observer). "Amazing...Equal parts care and craftsmanship, joy and sorrow, it is a splendour to behold....They simply exist on a different plane than everyone else, as does their album" (Folk Radio UK). "A study in beautiful storytelling through song" (RNR Magazine). "It's part balladry, part performance art, and totally cool. Think Simon & Garfunkel lost at sea, and you get a sense of the mythic world at play here." (Philadelphia Inquirer). Nothing short of stunning (Lisa Schwartz, Director Philadelphia Folk Festival).
Amit Dattani

Amit Dattani

7 Sept 2025 - 7 Sept 2025

Described as a "master musician" (Blues Matters), Amit Dattani, a distinctive voice in the folk scene releases his much anticipated second album, Wrong Kind of One. His deft touch and warm, gentle vocals take the listener on one enjoyable journey after another (Flyin Shoes). Simple, sincere and authentic (Folking). Each song is a nugget in a seam of precious stuff, hand hewn and lovingly put together (AmericanaUK). Folk, blues and Americana singer-songwriter Amit Dattani has garnered attention from the likes of BBC Radio 2, BBC 6 Music, Americana UK and fRoots, with his nimble fingerpicking and striking lyrical originality. Named in Best Gigs of 2023 by Tradfolk, Amit's raconteur spirit and superb musicianship has garnered a strong reputation on the live circuit, with over twenty years performing across the UK and Europe under his belt. Amit has shared the stage with the likes of Charlie Parr, John Smith, Blind Boy Paxton, Willy Vlautin and Kathryn Williams. Fantastic album (Cerys Matthews, BBC Radio 2). This is among the year's finest debut albums (Folk Radio UK). It has been a while since a master musician such as Amit Dattani has reminded us of just how full a sound one man with one guitar can create (Blues Matters). Terrific country blues - recommended (fRoots). "Echoes of John Fahey and Leo Kottke" (Roots and Branches). "Just a fantastic picker!" (Charlie Parr).
Dawn Landes

Dawn Landes

26 Jun 2025 - 6 Jul 2025

Dawn Landes is a Kentucky born singer-songwriter now living in Brooklyn, NY. Her fourth and newest album Bluebird features guest appearances by Norah Jones and members of Bon Iver. She has toured extensively in the US, Europe and around the world, often supporting artists such as Ray Lamontagne and Bryan Ferry. In the studio she has collaborated with Bonnie Prince Billy, Justin Townes Earle and composer Nico Muhly. Her songs have been featured in commercials, popular ?lms and TV shows, including The Good Wife and House. Landes has performed with The Boston Pops, NYC Ballet and recently at the TED Conference in Vancouver, BC, highlighting her forthcoming musical ROW. In 2015 she was invited to join Sufjan Stevens in his touring band. Dawn recently announced that she has signed with Yep Roc (Grant-Lee Phillips, Josh Rouse, The Sadies, Robyn Hitchcock), who will release her fifth album later this year.
Grant-Lee Phillips

Grant-Lee Phillips

10 Oct 2025 - 18 Jan 2026

Grant-Lee Phillips is an American singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist famed for leading the group Grant Lee Buffalo in the 1990s, and later launching a solo career.
Eve Selis & Friends

Eve Selis & Friends

22 Jul 2025 - 22 Jul 2025

A San Diego alt-country artist and five-times San Diego Music Awards winner. Eve isn't just a 'singer' - she's an emotion transducer who converts country, R&B, blues, folk, and rock 'n' roll signals into a megawatt zap that galvanizes everyone in its path. And as with fellow femme-furnace frontwomen Bonnie Raitt, Joan Osborne, Maria McKee, Melissa Etheridge, and Lydia Pense, the cauterizing power of Selis's voice can arc-weld material from almost any genre into a personal manifesto. New CD, Dark Sky Blue will be released on April 12th. Selis has been a singer for as long as she can remember - she grew up in the San Diego region and as a youngster began performing in her local church band, all the while dreaming of becoming a rock star. After an abortive spell at university studying musical theatre and English, Selis began a career performing, writing and recording her own music and has released 10 albums to date She has gigged at the infamous Abbey Road Studios, toured Europe, and her last studio album, See Me With Your Heart was produced by GRAMMY-award winning producer Kenny Greenberg (Allison Moorer, The Mavericks, Joan Baez).
The Coal Porters

The Coal Porters

4 Sept 2025 - 4 Sept 2025

The Coal Porters claim to be the world’s first 'alt-bluegrass' act, demonstrating the power of fiddle, mandolin, banjo, acoustic guitar and doghouse bass when matched with four-part harmonies and memorable melodies. Firmly established on the UK and European touring circuits, the Coal Porters are an acoustic act with attitude. Their live show is polished yet passionate and second to none.
Kirsten Adamson

Kirsten Adamson

4 Oct 2025 - 20 Feb 2026

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.
Blue Rose Code

Blue Rose Code

10 May 2025 - 18 Aug 2025

A nomad, both geographically and musically, songwriter Ross Wilson aka Blue Rose Code writes straight from – and to – the heart. His songs address universal themes of love, loss, travel, home, accepting the past and embracing the future in a deeply personal way. They are variously painted with the vibrant colours of folk, Americana, jazz, country, soul, pop and, increasingly, celtic traditions; an eclecticism that has seen him compared to John Martyn, Van Morrison and Tom Waits amongst
Phil Odgers & Bobby Valentino: A Night To Remember
PHIL ODGERS Founder member and lead vocal strike force of the inimitable The Men They Couldnt Hang, Phil Swill Odgers is a well-loved and prolific solo artist in his own right. Audiences around the world from Cairo to Reykjavik, Brisbane to Tokyo, and Berlin to London have succumbed to his effervescent and heartfelt vocal style. A fine acoustic guitarist, singer and songwriter, with far-reaching influences ranging from his Scottish roots, through 50's/60's rock n roll, punk, folk and country. Phil Odgers is a sorely undervalued national treasure whose solo albums hit high in the Folk and Roots charts both here and in the US. His live gigs are uniquely special and almost always sell out. Phil is joined on stage at this gig by BOBBY VALENTINO The man who co-wrote and played violin on The Bluebells Young at Heart, Bobby has played on records by Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, The Alabama 3 and Paul Weller to name but a few. He has also contributed to many recordings by The Men They Couldnt Hang as well as frequently appearing with them on stage. Bobby's vocal talents are demonstrated on his solo albums This is Murder and Pat-a-Cake, Pat-a-Cake both of which will be on sale on the night. Phil Swill Odgers and Bobby Valentino what a combination!!
Susy Wall & Matt Sayers

Susy Wall & Matt Sayers

9 Nov 2025 - 9 Nov 2025

Independent artists and indie-folk singer-songwriters Matt Sayers and Susy Wall join forces for a special evening of music. Susy, fresh off the release of her debut album last year, and Matt, with his own debut on the way, will each perform their own set, sharing their distinctive songs and stories. Expect stories, heartfelt lyrics, and a night of music you wont forget. Susy Wall Susy is a Welsh singer songwriter, now based in the Black Country near Birmingham. She draws upon the everyday for her inspiration when writing, focusing on melodic vocal lines accompanied with simple guitar or piano as a backdrop for her voice. Susy is constantly inspired by many artists, old and new and is currently working on a variety of interesting projects, both solo and collaborative. The first of these was the release of her debut EP, Home is the Colour, out in September 2023, closely followed by her Winter EP in November, All Wrapped Up. Her debut album, The Spaces In Between, was released on September 27th 2024 and has been played on several radio stations including the Folk Show with Mark Radcliffe on BBC Radio 2 and the Welsh A List on BBC Radio Wales. It was also the featured album on Iain Anderson's show on BBC Radio Scotland. "Susy Wall has a voice that is divine and that sends shiversIt's like a direct line to the soul of the listener. Her songwriting is superb and well-crafted with a sensitivity that is rare and cannot be taught. A remarkably gifted artist." (Gordon Giltrap MBE) "Susy writes with her heart wide open which makes for a collection of songs that will move you, and Susy has the voice to do just that." (Fatea). Matt Sayers Nestled in the embrace of indie folk, Matt Sayers, a singer-songwriter from the West Midlands with a penchant for heartfelt storytelling, draws inspiration from the revered Laurel Canyon troubadours of the 70s - think Jackson Browne and Joni Mitchell. In the contemporary tapestry of his sound, echoes of Gregory Alan Isakov, Noah Gundersen, and the Milk Carton Kids find a home. Matt's lyrical wanderings often lead to introspective destinations. Tracks like Dancing Girl grapple with the weight of mortality, while Jericho speaks to the universal search for a place to call home. His melodies carry a delicate balance, blending the old-world charm of Laurel Canyon with a modern touch that resonates with today's listeners. Matt invites you to join him on a journey of self-discovery, with each song being a mirror reflecting the shared emotions and experiences that bind us all. In the gentle strumming of his guitar and the warmth of his voice, Matt finds a timeless connection that speaks to the heart. There's an honesty imbued into his performance that immediately makes you believe every word of it. (UpToHearMusic). Profoundly poetic whilst charmingly matter of fact. (Brum Radio).
Phil Beer

Phil Beer

5 Sept 2025 - 5 Sept 2025

Phil Beer is the multi-instrumental half of the west country's award-winning acoustic duo, Show of Hands. With a professional career of over 36 years, Phil has a great deal of material to draw on for his solo appearances, which are an eclectic mix of traditional tunes, covers of Springsteen or The Hollies, together with his own compositions and songs from his contemporaries. All are songs and music of memory and significance sung in the subtle and melodic Phil Beer style and interjected with musings and amusings to an almost personal audience. It is a treat of past and current favourites from one of the most popular musicians on the acoustic circuit.
Martha Tilston

Martha Tilston

23 May 2025 - 21 Oct 2025

Martha has constantly experimented with her musical parameters. In the early days this meant singing the folk songs she had know since childhood one week and recording electronica and trip-hop the next. Her new tour is a sparky union of folk, acoustic, trip-hop and electronica. With her longtime collaborators and musicians Matt Tweed and Matt Kelly, among others they entwine raw vocals, sparkling melodies and thought provoking lyrics with filmic movements and earthy baselines. To see them live is to connect with longed-for parts of ourselves.
Mik Artistik's Ego Trip

Mik Artistik's Ego Trip

10 May 2025 - 14 Dec 2025

Mik Artistik’s Ego Trip is an edgy, funny, poetic unit who play rock and roll stand-up. Chaos ensues onstage with Mik chucking straws , spouting random observations, and following his train of thought into the audience. Jonny Flockton and Benson Walker on guitar and bass dutifully try and rein him in, while creating a joyous, funky, elegant, and rocky backdrop.
The Henry Girls

The Henry Girls

20 Aug 2025 - 20 Aug 2025

"These sisters have a sensational talent. The quality of their harmony singing goes beyond mere technique. They possess an unerring ability to blend tone and resonance in a seamless fashion" (The Evening Herald). The Henry Girls are sisters Karen, Lorna and Joleen McLaughlin from the most Northerly part of Co. Donegal. The trio formed as a professional music group in 2001 after Lorna and Karen returned from living in Australia where they started to perform and write songs. Joleen the youngest of the three was finishing her leaving certificate and was becoming a very promising harp and piano player so it was a natural progression to join together. They wrote and recorded their first album later that year, produced by Maire Breathnach. They have since gone on to record 5 more original studio albums, a couple of EP´s and a live album of music by The Boswell Sisters of New Orleans (released February 2020). Infused with the rich cultural heritage of their native Donegal but with a transatlantic flavour their music has been described as "full bodied and powerfully dynamic" by Froots magazine. They have successfully learned to interweave their traditional roots with contemporary elements, earning them both commercial success and spectacular critical acclaim on both sides of the Atlantic. As well as writing and recording albums The Henry Girls have written and performed music for Theatre productions, Dance pieces, Childrens shows and film and television , including the Canadian/Irish co-production A shine of Rainbows (2008) for which they received an IFTA nomination for their contribution to the musical score. What sets The Henry Girls apart is their distinctive sound, a captivating fusion of harp, fiddle, accordion, and tight, impressive three-part harmonies. The harmonious interplay between these instruments and their hauntingly beautiful vocals creates a sonic experience that transcends boundaries, capturing the essence of both their Irish roots and a global musical spirit. The Henry Girls have graced stages at festivals and venues around the world, leaving audiences in awe of their exceptional musicianship and heartfelt performances. From the intimate settings of Irish pubs to large international festivals, their music has resonated with people from diverse backgrounds, connecting them through the universal language of melody and harmony. The confidence and control of musicianship comes at you straight away, through a blending of instrumentation, harmonies, striking lyrics and wonderful vocals (Irish Music Magazine). The Henry Girls are one of those musical acts that you just want to tell people about-as many as you can. The writing is first rate, as is the instrumentation, and those harmonies! I cant say or write enough. Go seek them out yourself. You will be glad you did. (Music News Nashville). "The Henry Girls are a force in Folk and Americana music" (The Alternate Root - USA). "Ireland might have to finally share it's pride and joy with the rest of us, It's time for America to discover The Henry Girls" (The Huffington Post).
South for Winter

South for Winter

6 May 2025 - 6 May 2025

With a blend of dreamy acoustic duets, foot-stomping folk and bluesy murder ballads, New Zealand-formed and Nashville-based South for Winter's sound is as eclectic as their origins. The band is composed of New Zealander Nick Stone and Coloradan Dani Cichon, and together the two multi-instrumentalists and songwriters combine elements such as finger-tapping guitar, mandolin, foot percussion, poetic lyricism, and haunting melodies into a genre-bending sound described by American Songwriter as impeccable. South for Winter has been nominated as a Finalist for Best Group/Duo in the 2023 International Acoustic Music Awards, Semi-Finalist in the 2023 and 2022 International Songwriting Competition, Official Showcase Artist at South by Southwest Music Festival in 2023, Official Showcase Artist at Folk Alliance International in 2024 and 2022, and "Most Wanted" emerging artist at Falcon Ridge Festival in 2019. Their music has been praised by sites such as American Songwriter ("laden with delicate harmonies, intricate guitar-work, and earthy vocals... impeccable sound"), No Depression ("must-see artist"), For the Love of Bands ("a wonderful mix of indie and folk rock"), Grateful Web ("eclectic in the best sense of the word"), and AmericanaUK ("an ethereal, dreamy, journey...a journey well-worth taking"). South for Winter recorded their sophomore concept album, Of Sea and Sky, in Nashville TN alongside multi GRAMMY award-winning producer Matt Leigh (Willie Nelson, Sister Sadie). The album - out May 16, 2024 - has already received an outpouring of support, raising over $21,000 (>141% of its funding goal) for its upcoming independent release; receiving shoutouts from sites like No Depression Magazine and Grateful Web; landing on three Spotify editorial playlists with album singles; and having airplay from AAA stations such as Lightning 100 Radio (Nashville TN), WFUV Radio (NYC), Radio New Zealand, KVMR Radio (Nevada City, CA), WMOT Roots Radio (Murfreesboro TN), and WFMT (Chicago IL). Between releases the band has toured relentlessly both nationally and internationally, bringing audiences to their feet and selling out shows across Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Denmark, Poland, New Zealand, and the United States.
Birmingham Storytelling Cafe

Birmingham Storytelling Cafe

20 May 2025 - 20 May 2025

Ebranding Beelzebub Shines A Spotlight On Him Downstairs In A Performance Shaped By Razor Wit, Diabolical Horror, Absurd Confessions And Guffaws Fit For The Unholy Host.
Mishra

Mishra

22 May 2025 - 16 Nov 2025

UK global-folk duo ‘Mishra’ weave a tight web of intricate, Indian-influenced original music that defies definition and has brought them awards recognition since their formation in 2017. Kate Griffin on vocals, banjo, and dobro and Ford Collier on low whistle, calabash/percussion, and guitar (BBC R2 Folk Award-nominated The Drystones) draw on their unique base of influences, encompassing folk music of the UK and America, Indian classical music, and soul to create a surprisingly accessible sound that audiences instantly connect to.
Jessie Reid

Jessie Reid

15 Sept 2025 - 15 Sept 2025

Jessie Reid is a Shropshire-based singer-songwriter whose soulful, folk-inspired music has been featured on Made in Chelsea, Love Island, and BBC 6 Music. With over 8 million Spotify streams, she played Glastonbury Acoustic Stage 2024 and continues to captivate audiences with her distinctive percussive guitar style and evocative songwriting. Her folk-influenced, percussive fingerstyle guitar playing has drawn comparisons with the likes of Ben Howard, Newton Faulkner, Lucy Rose, and Nick Mulvey. Jessie has provided main tour support for Steph Strings, Louden Wainwright III and Dan Owen on their UK tours and has enjoyed supporting artists such as Seafret, Brooke Bentham, Bryde, and Ciaran Lavery over the past few years. With her unique percussive style of laptap guitar playing, Jessie has become a firm Sofar Sounds favorite, performing over 50 Sofar shows across three continents. Jessie has an exciting summer ahead and is due to appear at Kendal Calling, Green Man Festival and Moseley Folk Festival.
Gerry Colvin Band

Gerry Colvin Band

21 Sept 2025 - 21 Sept 2025

Folk-pop legend Gerry Colvin must be one of the most endearing and energetic musicians on the planet, just as much at home playing small clubs as he is supporting Status Quo on their Aquostic Live Tour. This multi-talented singer-songwriter performs all his own material, combining catchy melodies with thoughtful lyrics on love, society, angst and Johnny Cash! His be-suited on stage performance combines Frank Sinatra, Lee Evans, and the afore-mentioned Man in Black. Genius Madcap Maverick Yes, all of these thingsand a lot, lot more.
Christine Collister

Christine Collister

18 Sept 2025 - 18 Sept 2025

Christine is a magical live performer, and with her gravity defying voice, assured and impressive live performances and great personal charm, has become a familiar and popular name on the live scene, including major international festivals from Glastonbury to Cambridge, Winnipeg to Port Fairey. She has played at the Royal Albert Hall and appeared on Old Grey Whistle Test. Christine’s natural warmth and intimate connection with audiences, coupled with her stunning voice, make her concerts delightfully memorable events.
Good Habits

Good Habits

6 Nov 2025 - 6 Nov 2025

Genre-bending indie-folk, forged on the other side of the globe Being happily stranded in New Zealand in 2020 launched Good Habits full-time musical adventure, and their joyous genre-fusion has received international critical acclaim, cementing them as rising stars in the UK indie-folk scene. Including performances at Glastonbury and WOMAD; tours throughout the UK, EU and Australasia; and a Top 40 Folk Charts album. Pinpoint precision vocals, hard-rocking accordion, and great acoustic grooves. English folk musicianship at its 21st-century best. (Tom Robinson, BBC Radio 6 Music). Originally a duo composed of Bonnie Schwarz (cello + vocals) and Pete Shaw (accordion + synths + perc), Good Habits mix revved-up virtuosity, harmony, and vivid storytelling into an action-packed narrative of genre-bending goodness. In 2025, Good Habits evolve into a trio, welcoming drummer Jenny Walinetski (Miles Kane) into the band. This addition brings a high-energy, full-band sound, pushing their indie-folk fusion into dynamic new territory. After bringing Good Habits home to the UK at the end of 2021, the band has built an ever-growing, loyal fanbase through award-winning performances and a relentless touring schedule. Their latest album 'Quarter-Life' (2024), charted in the Top 40 Official Folk Charts and received multiple 5 reviews and radio play across BBC Radio, Songlines, and internationally.
Donald WG Lindsay & Alasdair Roberts

Donald WG Lindsay & Alasdair Roberts

30 Oct 2025 - 30 Oct 2025

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! Donald WG Lindsay "A 21st century visionary" (Piper and Composer Matthew Welch). Donald has earned our admiration and respect for what he is achieving for piping" (Piper, Museum Curator, Author and Professor Hugh Cheape). "Lindsay coaxes such soaring sweetness from his pipes that any images of a gruff Scotsman shrieking the dead to wakefulness will no doubt be banished" (Matt LaBarbera, Tone Glow(. although he can shriek the dead to wakefulness too, when the occasion demands it (Alasdair Roberts). Alasdair Roberts "Roberts is at the height of his powers, occupying a place of his own. His career is increasingly a delight to experience. By making entirely original music that is recognisably rooted in traditions while sounding like nothing else, he is achieving something special" (The Quietus). "Mystery would seem to be something that Roberts seeks out; he enjoys unravelling the threads of myth, symbol, parable and song as much as he does winding them back up again or tangling them up in knots (Songlines).ho invite you
Jaywalkers

Jaywalkers

23 Nov 2025 - 23 Nov 2025

As those who have been fortunate enough to catch them in full flight will testify, a Jaywalkers show is an exhilarating experience. UK-based they may be but many from the other side of the Atlantic have complimented them on their particularly stylish delivery of this virtuosic brand of Americana. These three outstanding musicians have developed a tight bond, demonstrated through their well-crafted, tasteful arrangements and ability to bounce ideas around the stage. The combination of powerhouse bass, flame-fingered mandolin, blistering fiddle and three-part harmony pack a punch as fiery as Jay's lead vocals and make a fuller sound than expected from an acoustic trio. After years of touring and perfecting their craft, Jaywalkers released their highly anticipated new album, Move On, in Spring 2025 and have received rave reviews as well as multiple plays on BBC Radio 6 Music's Cerys Matthews show. This new album has helped the band push the envelope further than ever before, fusing Bluegrass, Country, Folk & Americana with their signature virtuosity, humour & skill to create something that's both fresh and familiar. Whether youre a longtime listener or a newcomer, Move On is a big step forward for the band as it captivates and resonates on multiple levels. There's no better way to experience Jaywalkers than in person. Their live shows are fun, intimate, and full of the kind of energy that can only come from a band completely immersed in the music they create. In 2025, Jaywalkers are taking the stage for an extensive Album Launch tour, bringing their new album to fans around the UK. Expect to hear the latest tracks alongside fan favourites from their earlier releases, all reimagined in the raw, powerful live setting. Jaywalkers are a real melting pot of their collective inspirations and the influences of their musical upbringings. This is evident in their live sets which come to life in their use of Country heartbreak and Bluegrass dynamism applied to issues of the modern day and life as a touring bandmostly stuck on the M6. "A beautifully performed take on Americana a multi-layered sound that belies their trio status" (RnR Magazine). "Stunning three-part harmonies, soaring fiddles and fearless mandolins a powerhouse of Americana who can cook up a storm without the need to plug themselves into any cumbersome amplification" (Country Music Magazine). "Jaywalkers musicianship is truly tasty: both deft and impeccable but never soulless, while the players togetherness and interplay is mesmerising and attention-grabbing" (Folk Radio UK). "An effortless blend British and American folk traditions to create something arguably greater than either of these genres" (Acoustic Magazine).
John Smith

John Smith

8 May 2025 - 18 Dec 2025

Raised by the Devon seaside and making his bones in the bars and clubs of Liverpool, John has released five albums with over 40 million Spotify streams. He has played to audiences all over the world in living rooms, festival tents and sold-out concert halls. He is a genuine inquisitive truth-seeker, devoted song interpreter, and enchanting writer. As a session musician, he has played guitar with artists as diverse as Joan Baez, David Gray, Joe Henry, Lianne La Havas, and Tom Jones. His latest album, The Fray, was released to critical acclaim in March 2021.

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