We are delighted to announce our exciting programme for Summer 2022, with three amazing concerts, from May to July, featuring some of the very best folk, roots and acoustic artists. As always, we’re thrilled to be able to bring musicians of such quality to our little corner of South Gloucestershire/Bristol.
Kicking off the Spring Programme in May will be CUP O'JOE, a progressive bluegrass and folk band founded in Northern Ireland by three siblings Tabitha, Benjamin and Reuben Agnew, later joined by Tabitha’s husband David Benedict. Their unique mix of original compositions and re-imagined traditional songs paired with their lively performances has given them a growing presence in the acoustic music scene surrounding Ireland, The United Kingdom, Mainland Europe, and beyond. Opening the evening's entertainment in May will be CHARLIE LIMM, a songwriter, singer, guitarist and flautist, currently based in Bristol.
INDIA ELECTRIC CO., who headline our June gig (at the fourth time of asking!) are perhaps best described as “a veritable musical magpie’s nest” (BBC Radio 3) . Blending traditional instruments, folk melodies and subtle electronic influences, they’ve extensively toured throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand, including UK shows at The London Palladium and Hammersmith Apollo. Getting things underway will be Downend's own SUSIE DOBSON, now partially based in Cambridge, whose career as a singer-songwriter has flourished since she made her debut on our stage as a nervous teenager!
Weaving a musical dialogue between fiddle, guitar and voice, July's headliners KIT HAWES & AARON CATLOW explore the rich musical heritage of the British Isles, and create original music inspired by the traditions they grew up in. In demand as musicians, writers and arrangers, Kit and Aaron have worked with many established artists including Grammy Award-nominated Yola, Seth Lakeman, Afro Celt Sound System and Roni Size. Joining Kit & Aaron on the bill will be GOOD HABITS, an alt-folk duo composed of singer-cellist Bonnie Schwarz and accordionist Pete Shaw, telling stories and turning heads across the globe.
All three concerts will take place at CHRIST CHURCH DOWNEND. Seating is unreserved. All tickets are £14 in advance (£16 on the door) but you can also buy a season ticket for all three concerts for £37.50, saving £4.50 plus booking fees. All tickets are non-refundable. They will also be available from MELANIE’S KITCHEN in Downend ahead of each individual gig. Please note that they can only take cash payments and season tickets are NOT available at the shop. There will be a full bar at all concerts, as well as the stealth raffle, all proceeds of which go towards booking our support artists. Doors open at 7.30pm for a 7.45pm start.