ahab
Ahab emerged from the vibrant music scene in Hoxton and Shoreditch, the creative heart of north London. The band share a love of American music and songwriting, and honed their skills busking throughout London. Mixing Americana with a British folk-rock sensibility, Ahab's music has a laid-back swing but there's also an undercurrent of indie edginess - a lot like the popular Munford and Sons
Although I've a number of shots of Ashley's bands over the years, I've included this one because it was probably my favourite line-up. Taken at Fylde in September 1996
Follow the picture link for individual shots of the band.
Having toured together since 1986 to packed concert halls all over the world, Aly and Phil continue to charm audiences with their stunning music, and on-stage charisma that defies description. Witty and humorous banter sits alongside tunes that tug the heartstrings, and joyous reels and melodies that have feet tapping along at their ever popular concerts
Founded by Fairport Convention, Steeleye Span and The Albion Band's Ashley Hutchings, An Albion Christmas combines the talents of Kellie While (Albion Band), Simon Care (Edward II) and Simon Nicol (Fairport Convention), for an evening of traditional English Christmas music, dancing and celebration.
Closeted together in a Northumbrian farmhouse, established and rising stars of English roots music - Julie Matthews, Jez Lowe, Boo Hewerdine, Rory McLeod, Kate Bramley and Ruth Notman - brainstormed for a week with Radio 4 Saturday Live favourites Kate Fox, Matt Harvey and Elvis McGonagall. The resulting songs and verse interweave idioms from trad to vaudeville, ranging in theme from Roman invaders to the real and imagined walls that still divide us.
I first came across Maartin performing floor spots at the Ring O'Bells folk club in Middleton in the late 70's and since then I've had the pleasure of seeing on numerous occasions either as a band member with the likes of Fairport Convention and John Wright Band or accompanying artists such as Kieran Halpin or Beth Nielsen Chapman. This photo was taken at Beth's Westhoughton show in November 2006.
Over 25 years of playing together, Altan have established themselves as one of the most important live acts to play traditional Irish music both in Ireland and on the world stage. They have toured all over the USA and Europe (including two performances at The White House), hosted festivals in Tokyo, featured on an official Irish postage stamp and featured on the soundtrack of the 1997 oscar-winning film Good Will Hunting.
Harvey continues to write and perform as well as ever. Go see him!
Taken at Fylde in September 1985.
If the only reason for including the Animals here was because 'House of the Rising Sun' appeared on Bob Dylan's first album to me then that would suffice, but the wonderful evening they gave of Blues and Rock standards at Westhoughton will long remain in the memories of all who where there. Well done to Pat Batty and Westhoughton folk club!
Not only does Ruth play with the Rainbow
Chasers but she is also developing into a fine young singer/songwriter.
I caught up with here playing as part of the John Wright Band at John's
'AGM' and also performing a great solo spot as part of the nights
entertainment. Another to watch out for.
One of the finest voices on the folk scene and a wonderful rapport with his audience - I never tire of seeing Roy. Seen here at Werneth Park, Oldham in June 1991.
For more photos of Roy follow this link
Currently working in Show of Hands with Steve Knightly this is one of my favourite shots of Phil, listening to Steves' introduction at Fylde in September 1995
The
Phil Beer Band
Listening to this Band I can't help but
think that Phil's been at my record collection. A wonderful mixture of
all types of music from Folk to Rock. For a great night out look no further!
Taken at Shaw Playhouse
Follow the picture link for individual shots
of the band.
Taken at the Cornwall Folk Festival in 1982 Peter was one of my all time favourites on the scene. He had to be seen "Live" and his Kipling show at the Festival will remain an all time memory.
Winners of the 'Best Live Act' award in the 2005 Radio 2 Folk Awards this 11 piece don't disappoint, taking traditional songs and tunes to new places by throwing in bits of funk, reggae and jazz where you least expect it. Fronted by John Spiers and John Boden I found their obvious enjoyment at performing together infectious and, as a result, spent the whole night with a permanent smile. Catch them if you can!
Described as "an attempt to bring to a larger stage the spirit of an after-hours music session" Oysterband's Big Session does exactly that. The photos here include, special guests on the night, June Tabor and The Handsome Family.
Multiple winners of Scotland’s Folk Band of the Year – most recently in 2019 – the six-piece have long been one of country’s foremost and most recognisable folk groups, touring far beyond their deep northern roots.
The younger brother of Christy Moore, Luka has taken his songs worldwide. With his impassioned live perfomances he easily transforms the largest of venues to an intimate 'folk club' atmosphere.
Bluehorses
With my love of the Welsh bands, (see the
shots of Roam and WWW), I was expecting to enjoy Bluehorses. I just didn't
realise how much I would, come back to the North West soon!
This photo was taken at Fylde 2002.
Follow the picture link for individual shots
of the band.
The members of The Blues Band were already held in admiration by fans when they formed back in 1979, made up of Paul Jones (Manfred Mann), Dave Kelly, Tom McGuinness (The Roosters/Manfred Mann), Rob Townsend (McGuinness Flint/Medicine Head/Family) and Gary Fletcher. Twenty five years later they continue to add followers. Acknowledged as being amongst the finest purveyors of Rhythm and Blues, they have inspired numerous other bands
Formed as an impromptu folk club trio to pay tribute to Shirley Collins after she was awarded an MBE, Blue Blokes 3 are a bunch of old friends, each with a lengthy musical history. They are Ben Mandelson and Lu Edmonds (from Billy Bragg's Blokes, 3 Mustaphas 3 and numerous other outfits including the Mekons), plus Ian Anderson (Hot Vultures, English Country Blues Band etc.), plucking and strumming on a variety of instruments, working their way through a set that takes in country blues, traditional English ballads, New Orleans R&B and more.
Jon Boden and the Remnant Kings
The lead singer of Bellowhead, and with duo Spiers and Boden, BBC
Folk Singer of the Year 2010 Jon Boden is seen here with his four-piece
band The Remnant Kings.
From the post-industrial themes of Jon's remarkable solo album 'Songs
from the Floodplain', to interpretations of traditional material, to Bach
played on concertina and fiddle, to underscored wax cylinder recordings
of Victorian post-apocalyptic literature plus the occasional rousing grunge
classic from Jon's first album, Painted Lady, Jon Boden and the Remnant
Kings are a must!
Peter Bond
A super singer/songwriter from the North East
who was regularly performing in the 70's and early 80's. Pete gave up
performing in 1985 but has recently made a return to the scene. Seen here
doing a 'support' slot in April 2004 he also appeared at the Ormskirk
Festival later in the year. Welcome back!!
Follow the picture link for shots taken at the Black Lion "Song For Ethiopia" weekend in June 1985.
The multi-talented Gregor hails from Inverness and has played in various line-ups including contemporary Scottish folk group Burach and alongside Kathryn Tickell. He he released his first album 'Bowstroke' under his own name in 2006 and is seen her playing as part of the John Wright Band.
Paul
Brady
Singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist
Paul Brady, is one of Ireland's most highly regarded and successful artists,
incorporating folk, rock, blues traditional Irish and classic pop styles
into his songwriting.
With an extensive forty year catalogue, Paul's songs have been covered by a huge array of major artists including Tina Turner, Cliff Richard, Cher, Art Garfunkel, Ronan Keating, Joe Dolan and Carlos Santana.
Breaking Tradition Dance Company - The Lock In “Christmas Carol”
Half gig, half dance show and half panto!
Featuring “Folk Powerhouse” The Demon Barbers; artists from Breaking Tradition Dance Company; a new seasonal repertoire and a “slightly unhinged” approach to their family friendly stage shows, they are “guaranteed to raise weary spirits and send an audience home smiling”! The Telegraph
Moya Brennan‘s voice continues to provide a constant reminder of how the heart can be touched by the purity and thrill of music. Her live show has developed into a visual (as well as a sound) spectacle with rhythm, atmosphere, and vibrant harmony.
She is seen here with her Band which includes daughter, Aisling, and son Paul along with the remarkable harpist, Cormac De Barra and fiddle player, Cathal O’Currain.
When Michael Parkinson said of Katie "We think
we've made a real discovery" he hit the nail on the head. Having heard
her perform at The Manchester SWAP Festival, where this shot was taken,
and on her promo cd I was knocked out by her stunning voice.
Visit her website,
listen to her sound bites and see if you don't agree!
Dave continues to be my favourite performer of traditional and contemporary material. With his wonderfull laid back style. Sadly not seen as much as he should be at the clubs and festivals. If you get a chance to see or book him do so, you won't be disappointed
Formed in 1994 have appeared at over 100 Festivals throughout the UK and Europe. Taken here at Stockports "Streets Ahead Festival" in May 1998
Another talented youngster active in the scene! Already Jenn has supported bands such as The Tannahill Weavers and Danu.
This photo of Jenn, daughter of my good friends George and Janet, was taken at Fylde in September 2001 where Jenn was heavily involved in the youth Workshops.
Ia a multi award-winning Welsh folk band comprising of five virtuoso musicians formed after they met at a folk music course in Sweden.
On the 2022 tour, however, they were one member light but the four left more than made up for the missing Angharad.
The daughter of Martin Carthy and Norma Waterson, Eliza Carthy has continued in her parents' footstepsbreathing new life into some of England's traditional folk music whilst, at the same time penning her own original material
Eliza is seen here in September 2008 when her performance included a number of tracks from 'Dreams of Breathing Underwater' her second collection of entirely self penned songs.
Eliza
Carthy MBE and Martin
Carthy MBE
Martin Carthy and his twice Mercury nominated daughter Eliza are seen
joining forces here to perform songs from their first duo album ever,
The Elephant, which was released in May 2014.
Eliza Carthy MBE and Tim Eriksen
Come together to tour in 2015 in support of their live album Bottle, a mix of traditional material from both sides of the pond featuring fiddle. electric guitar, banjo, bass drum and both Eliza and Tim's compelling vocals. Widely regarded as two of the most respected voices in traditional folksong they form a powerhouse duo that is, in turns, hilarious and heartbreaking, intense and joyful.
Martin is a legendary ballad singer and guitarist
who has been one of folk music's greatest innovators for more than forty
years, influencing generations of artists including Bob Dylan and Paul
Simon. One of the originals of the '60s English folk revival, and still
going strong.
Taken here at Fylde in September 1982.
Martin Carthy and Dave Swarbrick 2008
Martin and Dave have worked together on and off for more than 40 years and have achieved a musical empathy and intimacy that those who have been lucky enough to witness them over the last few years will testify to. I had the good fortune to catch up with them at Bury Met in January 2008 and a great time was had by all.
Follow the picture link for individual shots
Martin Carthy and Dave Swarbrick 2015
The remarkable duo of Martin Carthy (BBC Radio 2 Folk Lifetime Achievement Award winner 2014) and folk-rock legend Dave Swarbrick created a new era of English instrumental folk music and a new approach to folk music altogether.
Karan first came to my attention as a part of the group Solas and has since successfully pursued her solo career. She is seen here fronting her own band in April 2009.
As the Award winner of the Americana Music Association UK Bob Harris Emerging Artist of the Year 2021, artist Robbie Cavanagh released his much anticipated third record in May 2023 and in the months since has been touring prolifically as a headline artist
The guitar and voice of Michael Chapman first became known on the Cornish Folk Circuit in 1967 and his album 'Fully Qualified Survivor', featuring the guitar of Mick Ronson and Rick Kemp's bass, was John Peel's favourite album of 1970. Since then he's continued to play to packed houses performing a fine mix of songs and instrumentals, he's seen here at The Railway at Greenfield supporting Bridget St John in 2007.
Duncan Chisholm effortlessly evokes a background steeped in the rich highland music tradition through his rich, varied compositions.
Having been described as “one of the most authentic interpreters of traditional highland music” his fiddle playing takes you on an emotional journey through the beautiful landscape which inspires him.
A Leeds based English anarchist music group which has evolved from its punk roots, through pop, techno, and various other styles, to the folk group which it is now. The band is known for its polyphony and its non-conformant lyrics and has Oysterband, along with O’Hooley & Tidow and Jon Boden of Bellowhead, appearing on their album ABCDEFG.
The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem
The Clancy Brothers were an influential Irish folk music singing group, most popular in the 1960s, they were famed for their woolly Aran jumpers and are widely credited with popularising Irish traditional music in the United States. They they became friends with a young Bob Dylan as they played the clubs of Greenwich Village in New York in the early 1960s.
They are seen here at the Cambridge Folk Festival in the 1980's
As a singer, songwriter, guitarist, and recording
artists, Anthony John Clark found his way into the professional side of
music around 1991. Since then he has performed all over the world and
completed a number of albums that have brought him positive reviews and
plenty of loyal fans, young and old. Amongst his best known songs are
"The Broken Years", "The Only Life Gloria Knows", and "Tuesday Night Is
Always Karaoke".
With a vast repertoire of traditional & original songs, dance tunes & dances playing bouzouki, melodeon, dulcimer, banjo & step percussion, Pete's been a professional musician since 1971. Taken here at Fylde in September 1993
Taken here singing with Clive Gregson at Fylde in September 1987, she's continued to make her presence felt since embarking on a solo career in 1992.
Named as one of RnR Magazines Ones to watch for 2022, Jenny Colquitt encompasses a unique combination of Americana, indie and folk rock and pop. Winner of the 2021/2022 FATEA Female artist of the Year award and the 2020/2021 GSMC Award for best female solo singer/songwriter, Jenny’s music is described as fit for film and storytelling at its finest. A voice that uniquely combines the melodic undertones of artists such as Eva Cassidy and the rawness of Alanis Morissette.
Described as "quite simply the best purveyors of acappella song on these Islands", English trio Coope Boyes and Simpson combine unique reworkings of traditional material and well-crafted, original songs with beautifully memorable tunes, soaring harmonies and words that strike a chord.
The magical accordian player seen here playing with Silly Wizard at The Free Trade Hall, Manchester in 1982.
Andy Cutting, Nancy Kerr and Martin Simpson
Whilst Martin Simpson, Andy Cutting & Nancy Kerr are all virtuosos in their own right they have found themselves appearing on stage together in various combinations over the years and the experience has clearly, and not surprisingly, been a good one. In 2015 they formed as a trio to release a new album called Murmurs supported by a full tour.
Daimh (Dive) offer a fresh, up to date approach to traditional music as an exciting combination of musicians perform high energy, fast-flowing mixture of tunes, fusing together their individual styles on bagpipes, fiddle, banjo, guitar, bodhran and mandola to create a unique and compelling sound
One of the most important traditional Irish ensembles of recent years, named after the Celtic Goddess, Danu played their first gig at the renowned Lorient Inter-celtic Festival in France in 1994. They have gathered dozens of awards over the years, hundreds of 5 star live and album reviews and performed on over a thousand stages.
For over twenty five years now Kiki Dee and Carmelo Luggeri have been touring their spellbinding acoustic live show across the UK and Europe. Performing in this stripped back fashion allows each of their exceptional talents to shine through and create a wonderful and warm sense of intimacy for the audience.
Voted 'Best Live Act' at the Radio Two Folk Awards 2009 and I can see why. The Demon Barber Roadshow combines the band’s music with traditional dance - clog, morris and rapper. With all this plus the odd nod to my all time favourite Peter Bellamy I couldn't ask for more!
All the elements that make great Celtic music come satisfyingly together in Dervish - exceptional muscianship, breathtaking vocals, high-energy sets of tunes and instantly compelling songs.
I first heard Cara singing with Equation and was won over immediately. Her pure vocals coupled with a lovely personality provide a show that's well worth seeing. Don't miss her!
Follow the picture link for more shots of Cara!
Described by Q Magazine as "quite possibly the world's most beautiful female voice", Cara Dillon is one of the finest exponents of traditional Irish song anywhere in the world. Joined by her partner and husband Sam Lakeman (brother of Seth and Sean) she has successfully steered an eclectic musical path gathering both critical acclaim and commercial success with her captivating and emotive performances.
Paul
Downes and Phil
Beer
A real blast from the past! Paul and Phil seen
here during their reunion tour. Their set included both old and new favourites,
I especially enjoyed their version of Jonathan Kelly's "Cursed Anna's
Stare". More of the same please!
Follow the picture link for more shots of Paul and Phil
Another young talent, Kris has played with John McCusker, Kate Rusby, Eddie Reader and Karine Polwart among others. He's also helped form the groups Fine Friday and Lau making him one of the most in demand players in Scotland today. With his his accomplished guitar playing and fine vocals he performs both contemporary and traditional material in his own inimitable way.
Kris Drever and Nashville-based Americana artist Rachel Baiman presented a joint tour of the UK and Scotland in the spring of 2022
Touring the release of "The Best of Kris Drever", Kris was joined on stage by Louis Abbott, Euan Burton and Rachel Lightbody and a great night it was .
Drever, McCusker and Woomble combine on one of the most innovative projects this year. John McCusker is a highly regarded traditional musician who is rated throughout folk-land as one of the most naturally gifted multi-instrumentalists of his generation. Lau's Kris Drever is a singer songwriter of the highest calibre who has carried folk music into the 21st century. The super band trio is completed by Idlewild front man Roddy Woomble. Here they were joined by Heidi Talbot and Boo Hewerdine.
The Dylan Project presents a refreshing and vibrant interpretation
of Bob Dylan's music. The band features the iconic Steve Gibbons on vocals
backed by some of Britain's most talented folk rock musicians PJ Wright,
Dave Pegg and other members of Fairport Convention
Follow the picture link for individual shots
of the band
When Ralph McTell described Julie as " a terrific guitar player who also writes great songs" he wasn't joking and in July 2007 Julie joined Martin Taylor, Doyle Dykes, Gordon Giltrap, Martin Simpson and Simon Mayor as a regular columnist in 'Acoustic' magazine.
To promote the column Julie undertook a tour of Borders stores in the UK, presenting a series of guitar clinics and playing live in-store to some lucky audiences. These shots were taken during her set at the Manchester branch. A great talent to look out for.
Fairport
Convention - Acoustic
Seen here at Westhoughton Folk Club in April
2004. I've enjoyed Fairport on a number of occasions over the years and
this night was no exception!
Follow the picture link for individual shots of the band
Fairport Convention 2009 acoustic tour
Fairport's 2009 acoustic tour once again featured favourites old and new played with an energy that you'd find in a band playing their 42nd gig not their 42nd year. Long may they run.
Renowned for inventing the British folk-rock genre. Fairport are winners of the coveted BBC Radio 2 Lifetime Achievement Award and their classic Liege and Lief has been voted most influential folk album of all time by Radio 2 listeners.
Andy Fairweather Low and the Low Riders
Andy Fairweather Low first came to prominence as the lead singer of sixties legends Amen Corner, making hits like Bend Me Shape Me and If Paradise is Half As Nice. Since then he’s worked with Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, Elton John, The Who, BB King, Van Morrison, and many more.
A remarkable band with a remarkable front man.
Winners of the German Critics’ Choice Award 2017, nominees for a Radio 2 Horizon Folk Award and Scots Trad Music Award’s ‘Live Act of the Year’, amongst many other accolades, FARA are pictured here in October 2022
Since launching his own solo live career at the 2016, Daoirí Farrell
has gone from strength to strength with numerous honours from BBC Radio
2 Folk Awards to ALSR Celtic Music accolades and worldwide touring. He
has also received endorsements from the likes of Christy Moore
(“Daoirí has assumed the mantle of Luke [Kelly]”) and Mark Radcliffe (“What
a voice”).
Taken at Fylde in September 1991. Although I've seen all three members of the Fishers in various guises over the years, this is the only time that I've managed to catch all three together.
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.
Samuel Ford, a songwriter hailing from the medieval Sussex cinq port of Rye, intertwines intricate rhythms, immediate melodies and introspective lyrics that soar from the darkest of chasms to etherial atmospheres of uplifting melancholy.
Julie is a Scottish folk singer and multi-instrumentalist who sings primarily in Scottish Gaelic and she scooped the Radio Two 'Folk Singer Of The Year' prize at the Folk Awards of 2008, she also won the Horizon award in 2006.
Bob Fox has played the role of Songman in War Horse for the past three years, both in the West End in the UK, Ireland and South Africa touring production.
I first came across him singing with Stu Luckley in the late 70's
These photos of Liam and Michael Campbell of the Corteeners were taken during the recording of a concert exclusively for Manchester's 'Channel M' tv channel where he performed on the same bill as Liam Frost
A special seasonal celebration with England's first family of folk, Waterson:Carthy, and The Devil's Interval. Drawing from the calendar of English ritual and ceremonial song they present a remarkable collection of deep winter songs rooted in folk beliefs and rural practices.
A fine Manchester singer songwriter who places an emphasis on his lyrics, Liam has gone from performing in front of a hardcore local fanbase to wowing crowds nationwide and being signed by Sony's new independent label Lavolta Records. Nowadays you are more likely to see him performing with his band The Slowdown Family but these shots were taken during an acoustic set he did exclusively for Manchester's 'Channel M' tv channel. Seek him out!
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Taken at Fylde in September 1989. Although I've
got most of his albums, Vin must be seen live to really enjoy this unique
performer.
Taken at the last night of the Westhoughton Folk
Club in November 2007. It was fitting that Vin, who played the original
Club in 1972, was there for the finish of a Club which holds so many great
memories for both performers and audiences alike.
A selection of photos taken of Vin in June 2009. To qote 'Living Tradition' "Vin's live performance can range from manic comic delivery to thought provoking songs - always in control but giving the impression of mayhem - if you haven't seen his live act you are missing out on one of the great performers of our time."
The Gathering includes musicians from the best
folk-rock bands of the past 30 years. Jerry Donahue (Fairport Convention),
Rick Kemp (Steeleye Span), Clive Bunker (Jethro Tull, Pentangle), Ray
Jackson (Lindisfarne), Doug Morter (Magna Carta, The Albion Band) along
with Jerry's daughter Kristina Donahue.
Together they performed songs from their back catalogue, traditional and
new ones. Catch this band while you can!
Follow the picture link for more shots!
