For more than thirty years, Steve has been writing, making records, performing and gaining
accolades along the way. A brilliant writer, 'The Slip Jigs & Reels' has now become so
familiar to audiences they believe it to be 'traditional'. His work is covered by Fairport
Convention, Dolores Keane, Bob Fox... and many more. We eagerly await this very talented
singer songwriter. His web site
Support: Goffee, Brown and Hyams
Music with a bit of 'GBH' thats Graham Goffee, Bru Brown and Nigel Hyams to you!
Three talented musicians who thoroughly enjoy what they do and so do their audiences.
Saturday January 17th, The London Philharmonic Skiffle Orchestra at the Village Hall £10
Back by popular demand , four very talented, extremely funny performers.
See their web site for further information
and to read some of their reviews. Info on the Village hall can be found
here
January 22nd, Open Stage
January 29th, Kiss the Mistress £7
Kiss the Mistress is a trio whose dynamic and exciting sound is rooted in Gaelic tradition.
The unique combination of 'cello/voice (Ginny Davis) and chromatic button accordion (John Ramirez)
underpinned by the driving rhythmical counterpoint of bodhran (Roy Jones) creates a sound
that is both unique and engaging. Always searching for ancient resonances,
they give voice to the tunes and songs that draw them. With skillfully crafted arrangements
they celebrate the breadth of pan European music and perform their own self penned material. Their MySpace site
Support: Streams of Brandy - Stan, Denis & Una combine good music and songs
February 5th, Open Stage Cancelled due to snow
February 12th, Kittiwakes £6
'The Kittiwakes craft timeless and magical acoustically dappled folk treats - gentle and
alluring ostensibly Gaelic in sound texture and gorgeously flighty braided as they are by corteges
of mandolins, accordions and violins.' - Losing Today There web site
Support: Clive Carey
See Clive singing "The Road to Dundee" at Towersey on YouTube.
February 19th, Open Stage
February 26th, Brian Peters £7
Brian Peters is a performer of traditional folk music who combines a high level of skill on three
different instruments with a great voice and an energetic stage presence. He's a leading English
squeezebox player, doubling on melodeon (button accordion) and anglo concertina, a fine guitarist
well-versed in open tunings, and a passionate singer who can convey drama or emotion, while his
carefully-constructed accompaniments blend adventure and sophistication. Described as "One of British
folk music's finest ambassadors", Brian started out in the folk clubs of England and has taken his
performances to stages all over the world, touring regularly in Europe and America, and always
retaining a deep commitment to the musical traditions of his native country. His web site
Support: Rosa's daughters
Rosa's Daughters are a harmony duo who love singing. Their repertoire covers Traditonal
Engish songs, self-penned material through to contemporary singer/songwriters.Whatever
catches their ears really. They play between them a variety of instruments including
guitar,citterne,hungarian cittera, appalachian dulcimer and if the occasion
arises......keyboards..plus a wide range of percussion stuff.
Their web site
March 5th, Open Stage
March 12th, George Papavgeris £7
George's stock-in-trade is quality songsmithery that everyone can relate to, rather than the more
exclusive overt-confessional-soapbox mode that we often encounter. But he is not politically naïve,
neither is his outlook without conscience; he just prefers lasting values to transient/parading
activism, and takes genuine delight in simple pleasures.
George only began songwriting in 2001, but since then he has written 190+ songs and produced no
less than seven CDs of his material. As an indication of the man's quality, four of his albums
were released on Robb Johnson's Irregular Records (Ordinary Heroes & For My Next Trick)
and UNLaBELLED Record labels (Silent Majority & Life As Usual), and with his last one, Life's
Eyes, he entered the WildGoose stable. Additionally, more than a dozen of his songs are already
covered by singers like Vin Garbutt, Andy Irvine, Roy Bailey, Jim Causley, Cloudstreet and Enda
Kenny to name but a few. He has also made numerous appearances on UK and Australian radio and
toured in Australia three times (2004, 2006 & 2008) including performances at the prestigious
Australian National Folk Festival. His web site
Support: Na-Mara
Na-Mara are a St Albans based duo - Paul McNamara (Guitar and vocals) and Rob Garcia
(Guitar and mandolin). Our repertoire ranges from arrangements of Irish fiddle tunes for
mandolin and guitar, to songs and ballads arranged for voice, guitar and mandolin.
web site and
Myspace site
March 19th, Open Stage
March 26th, Reg Meuross £8
'Dragonfly' is Reg's most accomplished work so far, in a career that began with The Panic Brothers
his duo with Richard Morton, formed in 1986 they recorded one album called 'In The Red' produced by
Clive Gregson. Five years of successful touring and TV work followed, with appearances at Edinburgh,
Glastonbury, Sidmouth and all the major British Festivals.
Reg then went on to form The Flamingos who featured ex Graham Parker guitarist Martin Belmont, Bob
Loveday from The Penguin Cafe Orchestra & Bob Geldof's Band & Alison Jones of The Barely Works They
recorded one album called 'Arrested'. In recent years Reg has been a crucial member of Hank
Wangford's band, The Lost Cowboys.
In 1996 he released the critically acclaimed CD 'The Goodbye Hat' and was nominated for several music
awards, including best song for 'Ring around the Roses.'
It wasn't followed up until 2004 with the album that really established Reg as "One of Britain's finest
Singer Songwriters" (Time Out), 'SHORT STORIES'. Followed in 2007 by the excellent 'STILL'
Reg's Writing, Performing and acting credits include work with people as diverse as the famous French
Composer Vladimir Cosma - who wrote the cult movie 'Diva', Gerard Depardieu; Marsha Malamet; Nick Lowe;
Not The Nine O'Clock News; Robbie Coltrane; Chris Difford; Charlie Dore; Gary Clark; Antonia Bird;
Lenny Henry; Jeremy Hardy; Paul Merton, etc.
Apart from his Solo concerts Reg will also be touring with various combinations from his studio
musicians which include Jackie Oates - Fiddle & Voice, Phil Beer - Fiddle (SHOW OF HANDS) Roy
Dodds - Drums (EDDI READER) and Simon Edwards - Bass (FAIRGROUND ATTRACTION, BILLY BRAGG)
Reg has been invited to appear at The Teenage Cancer Trust Concert at The Royal Albert Hall
on Wednesday 25th March. He will be appearing on the first ever 'folk' night along with Fairport
Convention, Eliza Carthy, Kate Rusby & Seth Lakeman. His web site,
MySpace site and
Promoters site
Support: Nick Stephenson
Nick Stephenson is an accomplished singer/songwriter/performer from St Albans, Hertfordshire.
His startling presence and musical power has acquired him an ardent following in recent years.
He has performed all over Britain both as a solo artist and with his band 'Ground Dust'.
Nick has been writing his own music and lyrics for the last 9 years, resulting in a back catalogue
that has enabled him to record 4 CD's and provide a program of remarkable versatility in live
performance. His 2007 CD, LIVE @ THE MALTINGS ARTS THEATRE showcases his electrifyingly powerful
vocal style, contrasted with subtle and emotional passages all pulled together with urgent acoustic
guitar work.
His Lemonrock page and
Myspace page
April 2rd, Open Stage
April 9th, Isla St Clair £8
An honorary degree from Aberdeen University for her contribution to Scotland's music
and a solo performance in front of the Queen at the Royal Albert Hall to critical
acclaim - as you can see Isla is still keeping herself very busy.
Her enjoyment of the songs is very evident which goes to making this a memorable night. Her web site
Support: Jus' S'Posin' (the duo)
The original Jus'S'Posin aka Rick and Ellie play their favourite folk songs collected over the
years. Their eclectic choice of material ranges from traditional English folk song to appalacian
mountain music.
See there Lemonrock page and myspace
page.
April 16th, Open Stage
Saturday April 18th, Ceilidh at the Village Hall
Ceilidh
at
Redbourn Village Hall
63 The High St, Redbourn AL3 7LW
Saturday 18th April 2009
8pm til late
featuring
The Coproliters
Callers: Mary Rutherford & Andy Rouse.
Interval Entertainment: Run of the Mill
Tickets: £10 Adults, £7 Children under 14
Includes a fish & chip or veggie supper
Bar Available
Tickets available from The Village Hall: 01582 792822 or Jan: 01582 452954
Info on the Village hall can be found
here
April 23rd, Delta Echoes £6
National steel guitars & harmonica. As their name implies, Delta Echoes play 1930s Delta
blues and early string band/jug band music, plus an eclectic mix of Western swing, early
Hawaiian music, gospel and hokum.
Their web site
Support:
April 30th, Open Stage
May 7th, David Rovics £8
Superb guitarist, lyricist with a cutting edge delivery of topical comment. With a following both
sides of the Pond, expect a busy night.
His web site
Support: Bill Redway and Catherine Handley
A local musician and singer with a laid back approach to his craft, Bill will be joined by the
accomplished flautist, pianist and singer Catherine Handley, a classical musician who is also
well known on the folk scene. Their influences range from Bach to Bob Dylan, traditional ballads
and tunes to contemporary songwriting, with some of their own occasionally thrown in for good measure.
May 14th, Open Stage
May 21th, Clive Gregson £8
Clive has become as well known for his musical collaborations as for his solo work,
linked with artists as diverse as Richard Thompson, Christine Collister, Eddi Reader,
Boo Hewerdine and Nanci Griffith. Above all Clive's solo live shows are something
special and definitely not to be missed. "... he does the lot." The Independent His web site
Support: Lou Brown
Bournemouth based singer-songwriter Lou Brown is making an increasing impact on the national acoustic
scene. Her catalogue of self-penned material is extensive; from catchy melodies such as 'Isn't She
Amazing', 'The Old Way' and 'What Are You Singing About', to classically crafted ballads
including 'These Arms' and 'Morning Light'. It isn't surprising that many of Lou's tracks are
already fast becoming standards in and around her local area.
Her web site and Myspace
page
May 28th, Open Stage
June 4th, Open Stage
June 11th, Andy Irvine £10
For more than 40 years, Andy has been a world music pioneer and icon for traditional music and
musicians. Founder member of bands such as Sweeney's Men, Planxty, Patrick Street, and Mozaik,
he has been hailed as "a tradition in himself." Musician, singer and songwriter, few others can
equal his repertoire: Irish traditional songs, dexterous Balkan dance tunes, and a compelling
canon of his own material that defies description.
Musician, singer and songwriter, Andy has maintained both personal integrity and highly individual
performing skills throughout his 40-year career.
'His artistry is quite simply unique.' - The Independent
'Andy Irvine is Woody Guthrie's representative on earth.' - Hot Press;
'Andy Irvine's solo stage show is a musical travelogue through time and space. His right
hand dexterity on bouzouki was nothing short of amazing.' - Frets Magazine
'Andy is one of the most creative and talented people it has ever been my privilege to work
with. Great company, superb singer, genius of a musician, truly original songwriter and an
inspiration to all of us - what more could anyone ask?' - Dick Gaughan His web site
Support: Malcolm Hobbs
"my favourite performer in England." ...James Fagan
Sunday June 14th, Folk and Blues Day in Redbourn, 2 to 6pm
This event will be located on Redbourn Common around the Cricket Club, it is being run in conjunction
St Albans Arts Council (Music in the Parks) and is twinned with Redbourn Steam Day. The running
order and approximate times are shown below.
2:00 Nick Stephenson - Nick is an accomplished singer/songwriter/performer from St Albans.
His startling presence and musical power has acquired him an ardent following in
recent years. His myspace page.
2:50 Run of the Mill - Jenny and friends. Local favourite with an extended lineup.
3:40 Delta Echoes - National steel guitars & harmonica. As their name implies, Delta Echoes play 1930s Delta
blues and early string band/jug band music, plus an eclectic mix of Western swing, early
Hawaiian music, gospel and hokum.
Their web site.
4.30 John & Joe Devine - John and Joe Devine - Father and son duet of Uilleann Pipes,
Flute, Whistles and Guitar. Playing traditional irish dance music mixed with haunting airs
and traditional songs.
John's web site,
Joe's myspace page.
5.20 Wizz Jones - British acoustic guitarist singer and bluesman.
His web site
June 18th, Open Stage
June 25th, Steph West & Alice Little £6
Vibrant arrangements of dancing tunes and passionate songs rooted in
the traditional music of the British Isles. Steph West is joined by
Alice Little for a dynamic mix of harp, fiddle and voice.
Steph's web site
Alice is one half of The Selenites their myspace page is here
Support: Don McCloud
Sunday June 28th, Slow Pace Music Workshop £15
There will be a workshop featured at the St Albans festival especially for those people
who find pub sessions too fast and frantic.
Venue: Fleetville Community Centre, St Albans
Time: 10.00-11.45
Further to last years successful workshop aimed at building confidence in playing and passing
on tips, Kate Rouse (Keyboard & Hammered Dulcimer) & Liz Power (Keyboard & Fiddle) will host
this friendly session. It is open to all ages and instruments. Bookings can be made through
the St Albans Festival Box Office.
Wednesday July 1st, St Michael's Street Folk Evening
St Michael Street in St Albans is closed for the evening, the traffic being
replaced by Morris men and the pubs being filled with folk music.
July 2nd, Open Stage
July 9th, Sarah McQuiad concert £8 workshop £10 combined £15
DADGAD guitar workshop and Concert
The workshop is from 5.30 to 7:00 with a limited of 10 places, so book early.
For details see Sarah's workshop page.
The workshop must be booked in advance by contacting Janet Strapp on 01582 452954 or 07850 163241.
There will be a concert in the evening starting at 8:30.
Further info on Sarah can be found on her web site and
youtube site.
Photo by Alastair Bruce (www.alastairbruce.co.uk).
Support:
July 16th, Open Stage
July 23th, Bill Whaley & Dave Fletcher £8
Regular guests at the club because they are so good.
A truly wonderful pair whose harmonies are a joy their playing
superb their chat brilliant. Do we like them? You bet we do and
so do everyone who listens to them.
See there web site
Support:
July 30th, Closed
August, Closed
September 3rd, Open Stage
September 10th, Open Stage
September 17th, Jez Lowe £8
As a "live" performer, Jez is one of the busiest around accompanying
himself on guitar, cittern, dulcimer and harmonica. He is in great
demand solo or with his group The Bad Pennies. Recorded by Fairport,
The Dubliners and numerous others, back by popular demand.
His web site.
Support: Run of the Mill
September 24th, Open Stage
October 1st, Zoox £8
Are a superb trio serving up a cocktail of new melodies & traditional tunes with
a delicate balance of strings, wind & percussion. Their web site
Support: Clive Carey
One of Chesham Tudor Folk Club Finest performers. See Clive singing
"The Road to Dundee" at Towersey on YouTube.
October 8th, Open Stage
October 15th, Ben Sands £8
From Newry, County Down multi instrumentalist, singer and writer of songs, Ben the
cornerstone of the illustrious Sands family has been performing and recording since the
early 1970's. He brings a solid reputation as a great singer and great songs from a
diversity of sources.
'We all Need a Hug' (written by Ben) has featured recently as a sound track for Imperial
Leather.
For more information and downloads of his music his web site.
Support: Andy Smythe
A singer-songwriter based in London, Andy Smythe has for the past six years quietly stolen the hearts
and minds of all that hear his evocative, finely crafted songs. At venues such as the Half Moon, the
Green Note and the Borderline, Andy's performances have won over audiences and earned him accolades
from the likes of The Waterboys' Mike Scott. In 2003 his debut album 'Love Unspoken' was released in
the USA and he played the CMJ new music festival in New York. He has since been touring on the folk
circuit and has appeared at a number of major folk festivals across the UK.
His web site and
myspace page
October 22rd, Open Stage
October 29th, Steve Turner £8
Steve Turner comes from a family of singers and concertina players. His grandfather was known
to have sung and played the instrument in the 1890's.
Steve began his career on the Manchester folk scene at the end of the 1960s. Joining the
Geordie band "Canny Fettle" in 1970, he made two albums and toured in Britain and Europe with
them for eight years.
In 1979, he won the Melody Maker "Stars of the 80s" national competition, which persuaded him
to turn professional for 12 years until 1991. During this time he made four solo albums with
Fellside Records and toured internationally.
A period of thirteen years away from the folk scene followed with Steve building a violin
retailing business and diversifying musically into a more classical mode.
But folk music has a habit of getting into your blood. So 2004 saw Steve make a somwhat nervous
return to the folk scene, but he was warmly welcomed to the extent that he was asked to make a
new fifth album, which is now completed, at Ollie Knight's studio in Robin Hood's Bay and includes
guests like Martin Carthy, Nancy Kerr and James Fagan, Kevin Brown and others.
His web site
Support: Billy Hill
Billy, 10, comes from West London. He's been playing folk fiddle since he was seven,
particularly Old Time and Appalachian. "I was finding classical violin a bit dull, so
we started searching for a more exciting type of music. In the end we found a great folk
fiddle teacher called Pete Cooper. I really liked the way Pete taught. It was so laid
back! He teaches by ear, so there is no nonsense about playing it with the music! Before
I go to his flat, I buy a Mars Bar to eat half way through the lesson, to keep me energised."
Billy loves anything by Pete; Nick Wyke and Becki Driscoll; and Nickel Creek. Also, the
Rolling Stones and Razorlight. He plans to learn the guitar as well, and form two
bands: one folk, one rock.
"This is the sound of a real songwriter who's lived a real life and all that entails" ..Q magazine
Do visit his myspace page named after one of his 30 odd CD's
Fully Qualified Survivor.
His extensive web site has lots of interesting reviews of him and his music.
Support: Bill Redway
A welcome return of Bill who did support for David Rovics back in May. This time he is without Catherine.
November 19th, Open Stage
November 26th, Bob Fox £8
"As soon as I heard Bob Fox sing I realised he must have one of the best voices in England,
I have always regarded him as an artist of great ability and integrity" ..Ralph McTell
Music with a bit of 'GBH' thats Graham Goffee, Bru Brown and Nigel Hyams to you!
Three talented musicians who thoroughly enjoy what they do and so do their audiences.
Tom has for many years been regarded as the top fiddle player in the country. Styles and techniques
learned in the company of the masters Sean McGuire, Stephane Grapelli and Bluegrass legend Byron
Berline, give Tom an endless variety of interpretations to his songs and tunes. His live performance
combines a rollercoaster of musical delights from fast, rhythmic dance tunes through beautiful slow
airs and of course, great singing; - all presented with his inimitable sense of humour and style.
Renowned for his musical accompaniments, Tom has played on literally hundreds of albums. The list
includes: Barbara Dickson, Richard Thompson, Allan Taylor and Lindisfarne. Tom began his career in
the ever-vibrant folk scene of Tyneside. His work with a local band gave the opportunity to support
his hero Sean McGuire and many other top names including The Fureys, De Dannan, John Doonan, Boys
of the Lough and even a lock-in with the Dubliners. Tom went on to work in a duo with Bob Fox,
topped the Cambridge Folk Festival with Kieron Halpin and shared stages with Mark O'Connor, Paul
Brady, The Chieftains and many more.
A member of the internationally renowned Sands Family from County Down, Colum's
reputation as a songwriter is widely known. Many of his songs have been recorded
by performers like Andy Irvine, Liam Clancy, Billy Connolly, Maddy Prior.. to name
but a few. He is a great storyteller and fine singer too. Sit back, relax and
enjoy his charm.
Web site
Regular guests at the club because they are so good.
A truly wonderful pair whose harmonies are a joy their playing
superb their chat brilliant. Do we like them? You bet we do and
so do everyone who listens to them.
See there web site
