Sheelanagig, or an amalgamation of instrumental joy, have become nothing short of a West Country sensation made up of violinist Aaron Catlow, flautist Luke Phillips-Griffiths, drummer John Blakeley, guitarist Kit Hawes and bassist John Short.
There’s intriguing balance between whimsical and modern folk, something I’d half expect to come from The Lord of the Rings soundtrack or hear in an old-fashioned tavern. That said they will be heading to Salisbury Arts Centre as part of their autumnal tour, October 12.
As former students of Darlington College of Arts in Devon, the band formed 12 years ago and have moved on and upwards to tour across the UK and Europe.
It’s wonderful to hear of a success story like Sheelanagig’s from a small time beginning to playing the stages of major festivals like Glastonbury, Womad and Beautiful Days.
Mike Harding, of BBC Radio 2, hailed the band as: “A completely top night out”.
From footage of their live shows it is immediately apparent that Sheelanagig’s performances become less of a gig and more of an experience, with each of the five band members invoking their own unique chord.
Songlines added: “The musicianship is tight and intense.”
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-q_nBNZTnDg[/embed]
For further information about the event, and to purchase tickets, click here.