Back in early 2021, just after the covid lockdowns when we’d just been allowed out again, with lots of restrictions and social distancing, SAM SWEENEY brought himself and his fiddle (he wasn’t allowed to bring anyone else!) to Christ Church Downend, and had the intimate crowd that was allowed in utterly mesmerised for 90 minutes.

It’s now time for him to return, this time with guitarist Louis Campbell in tow, and this time there are bound to be a few more people in the audience with almost 100 tickets already snapped up at the time of writing. And there will be yet more people watching virtually as the concert will be live-streamed in partnership with LIVE TO YOUR LIVING ROOM.
Sam is a veteran of the mighty Bellowhead, former and inaugural artistic director of the National Youth Folk Ensemble, founder member of the acclaimed instrumental trio Leveret, and "Britain’s premier fiddler" (Songlines), at the forefront of the revival in English traditional music.
Sam's most recent album, Escape That, is unashamed in its pool of influences. It’s an album laced with visits to old musical companions, culminating in something entirely new; not an uncomfortable fusion of genres but a genuine expression of love for his inspirations, past and present.

Opening the evening will be LOU SHEPHERD, a rising folk singer-songwriter whose emotive voice has confirmed her place as one of the UK’s most exciting emerging folk artists. With her compelling storytelling rooted deeply in nature and connection, Lou’s poetic lyrical perspectives, immersive soundscapes and commanding melodies cast "Laurel Canyon shadows", with the "quiet determination of a seedling seeking the light" (Bristol 24/7, FATEA).
Brought up on the best of the British folk revival and folk sessions in the South West of England, Lou’s live performances have gained Europe-wide acclaim, having spent two years at the heart of the Amsterdam folk scene. Now back in her native West Country, Lou’s awe and wonder for nature shine through. A talented multi-instrumentalist, her lucent and effortless vocals have left a lasting impression with audiences nationwide. Her debut EP Rise is scheduled for release later this year.
Brought up on the best of the British folk revival and folk sessions in the South West of England, Lou’s live performances have gained Europe-wide acclaim, having spent two years at the heart of the Amsterdam folk scene. Now back in her native West Country, Lou’s awe and wonder for nature shine through. A talented multi-instrumentalist, her lucent and effortless vocals have left a lasting impression with audiences nationwide. Her debut EP Rise is scheduled for release later this year.
Tickets for the concert, which takes place at CHRIST CHURCH DOWNEND on Friday 21 February 2025, are available online HERE and from MELANIE'S KITCHEN in Downend (cash only). They are priced at £14 each in advance or £16 on the door. Doors open at 7.00pm and the music starts around 7.45pm. This event is also included in our Spring Season Ticket.
There will be a bar, stocking cider, soft drinks, wine, hot drinks and real ale from locally-based HOP UNION BREWERY. Audience members are encouraged to bring their own glass/mug/tankard, as well as reusable bottles for water, as part of the drive to be more environmentally aware; there is a 50p discount for those that do. There will also be sweet treats available at the bar courtesy of Radstock-based THE GREAT CAKE COMPANY, as well as a prize draw, which helps to fund the support artists for each concert.
For those that can’t make it to Downend, or miss out on tickets, this concert will also be live-streamed in partnership with LIVE TO YOUR LIVING ROOM, so you can watch from the comfort of your own sofa! Head to livetoyourlivingroom.com for more information on live-stream tickets.
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