Alexandra Theatre

Thursday 20th September

TRADarrr

Punningly recalling the assault of the new which Fairport’s 1969 LP represented, this band have re-imagined folk rock, painting from a much larger palette, introducing the tints, tones and textures of a whole panoply of musical genres. Here are the precision percussion, searingly tasteful guitars, melodic basses and fiery fiddles that one associates with the genre. But in addition, one finds brass in truly British styles – the dazzling brightness of Purcell, the oomph of Elgar, the emotive richness of a Yorkshire brass band soloist - but also hints of jazz, trad and modern, and even the occasional mariachi riff, string sections, and countless astute references to a long legacy of pop and rock in its many forms.
TRADarrr

A new take on traditional British Folk music, featuring some classics and some hidden gems

Folk Words

Kadia

Kadia are a fast rising acoustic trio from Dorset who perform a galvanizing mix of traditional folk and cutting edge original songs. Combining cello, fingerstyle guitar, and mandolin with stunning three part harmony, they create rich and uplifting music interspersed with history and storytelling. Their live performances have built them a fearsome reputation, and are often described as “sublime” and “innovative”. Together, Lee Cuff, Chris Bailey, and David Hoyland have gained widespread prestige for creating new and vibrant arrangements of traditional lyrics and stories.
Kadia

Superb song writing, accomplished instrumentation and tight-as-you-like close harmony singing

Folk Words

 
 
 

Friday 21st September

O'Hooley & Tidow

With a personal invite from Billy Bragg to play Glastonbury, sessions on BBC 6 Music and BBC Radio 2, five star reviews and a feature in The Guardian, the songwriting, voice and piano partnership of Belinda O’Hooley and Heidi Tidow is regarded as ‘One of British folk music’s mightiest combinations’ (Mojo Magazine).
O'Hooley & Tidow

Dense, complex, beautifully performed

 * * * * Songlines

Merry Hell

Merry Hell is a band founded on the ever evolving Folk tradition – music made by the people and shared by the people. Though their hearts and souls are tuned to the songs which came before them, they bring new words and music forged from their own experiences, from the lows and the loves of their lives.
Merry Hell

5 Stars. Buy this. See them live. Enjoy.

 * * * * R2 Magazine

 

Saturday 22nd September

Steve Harley Acoustic Trio


Steve Harley, the original Cockney Rebel, plays an intimate, unique and atmospheric show; subtle lyricism, mingled with great improvisation and rocky rhythms. Steve will be accompanied by his Cockney Rebel band-mates of long-standing - Barry Wickens [violin & guitar] and James Lascelles [piano and percussion].
Expect all-time favourites like Mr Soft, Judy Teen, Mr Raffles, Sebastian, and of course the world-wide classic hit, Make Me
Smile (Come Up And See Me), blending in with more recent tracks from Steve's critically-acclaimed albums.

Steve Harley

A consummate performer at the top of his game

Ed Goodale Band


Ed & Ollie Goodale have gathered a strong following touring the UK and Europe over the last few years; Ed’s absorbing lyrics and inspirational songwriting accompanied by Ollie’s energetic percussion has seen them storm stages at Henley, Glastonbury, Wickham and many other festivals.. as well as capturing audiences in more intimate venues such as The Green Note and Koko in Camden. 2017 peaked with the critically acclaimed release of ‘The Gift’ – Live in Holland and for 2018 Ed & Ollie have been joined by guitar virtuoso Steve Ball and the driving bass of Steve Burrell, to build the energy and sound even further.

Ed Goodale Band

 

Sunday 23rd September

Dervish

Dervish concert performances are a myriad of tones and moods ranging from high energy tunes, played with fluidity and intuitiveness, to beautifully measured songs, from charming lyrics of life and love, to inspiring melodies that lift audiences from their seats.
All the elements are drawn together by Cathy Jordan's masterful stage-presence.
Dervish

Arguably the best Irish album ever

Gerry Colvin Band

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 things... and a lot, lot more.
Gerry Colvin

This man is unique and unforgettable. The songs are brilliant. He should be a household name. Go see him.”

Phil Beer, Show of Hands

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