14 June: Double-headline special: David Collins + Simon O’Grady & Tim White

Tonight’s performance features two superb acts who will be well known to TwickFolk regulars. David Collins and Simon O’Grady & Tim White have appeared at TwickFolk in floor spots and support slots over the past few years and we are delighted to welcome them back for this special double-headline evening.

David is a singer-songwriter-guitarist who has drawn comparison to Chris Wood. Described by award-winning folk singer Nick Hart as “Fantastic to hear play… his guitar playing sounds really, really lovely”, David is a storyteller at heart. His music is a mix of traditional ballads, his own, often very personal songs, and even some contemporary works, too. All of this is underpinned by his guitar playing that has a gentle and nuanced approach, supporting the story and tradition of ballad singing. A semi-finalist at the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Musician awards in 2011, David played across the UK at clubs and festivals. After a break of several years, David’s debut full album, Sundown, was released last year and marks his return to live music and performance.

Dave Kelly is a true legend of British Blues, having been a leading light on the scene since becoming lead singer and guitarist with the John Dummer Blues Band in the late 1960’s. Dave has worked with many of his heroes, including John Lee Hooker, Son House and Howlin’ Wolf, Buddy Guy, Junior Wells, Freddie King, Lowell Fulson, The Allman Brothers Band, Bill Payne, James Burton and Albert Lee. Probably one of the most auspicious pedigrees of any British Blues artist. In 1979, he was a founding member of The Blues Band with Tom McGuinness, Paul Jones and Hughie Flint, and the band released more than 20 albums.

Dave continues to work with his own Dave Kelly Band when time permits. Also for about the past 25 years he and Paul Jones have toured as an acoustic duo. He does similar tours with Scottish soul queen Maggie Bell. Now in his 70’s, Dave shows now sign of slowing down nor any intention of retiring. He says: “Why should I retire? – I get paid for my hobby!”

Dave’s latest album, The Sun on My Face, was… Continue reading. →

28 June: Summer Singers’ Night (with stage, lights and PA system)

Back by popular demand, our special singers’ nights give our regulars a chance to perform on stage with amplification and lighting.

A spot on a singers’ night consists of two songs. Anything is welcome, from sea shanties to psychedelia, original songs, traditional songs and covers of well known songs or less known songs.

For performers, these nights are a step up from our popular singarounds, putting you firmly in the spotlight but also necessitating more practice and preparation. So if you are playing, please do come prepared with everything you need – capo, picks, guitar strap and so. Most importantly, and to paraphrase Bob Dylan, PLEASE “know your song well before you start singing”.

Limited slots so email us in advance to book your place: .

… Continue reading. →