Music / folk
Bristol’s month in folk and roots – January 2025
Right, that’s Christmas done. There’s no time to catch your breath though because Bristol is absolutely packed with loads of brilliant folk and roots gigs throughout January. Admittedly, quite a few of them are squashed into the last couple of weeks but there’s so much good stuff to go and see.
The Brothers Gillespie play Christ Church Downend on January 17. The siblings from Northumberland have been described as “weaving an especially compelling magic” with their gorgeous harmonies and lyrical guitar playing. Their latest album, The Merciful Road, is a lovely, windswept folk record – as good as anything you’ll hear all year. Support comes from Liz Simcock.
is needed now More than ever
Windborne is a folk ensemble that promises to transport listeners with their soaring harmonies and lush acoustic arrangements. They play just off of Park Street on January 26. The American quartet promises chilly, midwintery music, full of folklore, magic and mystery drawing on English, Occitan and Lithuanian traditions.
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There is, as ever, plenty going on at the Beacon. Mandolin virtuoso Chris Thile is a pioneer in the world of progressive bluegrass, pushing the boundaries of his instrument while remaining deeply rooted in tradition. His show on January 22 might be a bit different though. Joined by both Jacob Collier and the 50-piece Britten Sinfonia, there will be classical pieces as well as songs by Thile and Collier. It’s going to be pretty special.
Winging her way back from Australia, Emily Barker plays the Lantern Hall on Saturday 25. Her music is a beautifully understated mix of folk, Americana, and alt-country, marked by her clear, expressive voice and captivating songwriting. Her latest album, Fragile As Humans, is fantastic.
American duo Brothers Osborne play at the Beacon on January 29, and the gig is already sold out. Hardly surprising for a band that have clocked up more than 2.7 billion global streams. If you’ve got a ticket, this one will be a superb way to start a countrified 2025.
Finally, “the Welsh Springsteen”, Martyn Joseph plays the Lantern on January 31. His brand of folk is deeply soulful, with lyrics that tackle everything from social issues to personal reflection. After 40-odd years, his shows are always full of passion and love.
With his gentle voice and introspective songwriting, Joshua Radin has earned a reputation as a master of emotional ballads and acoustic folk-pop; he plays the old boat on January 26. There’s a new album, One Day Home, due for release in February and this show is a co-headline with Swedish singer Ellen Kraus. Kraus plays gloriously slinky, laconic pop music and is likely to be the perfect match for Radin’s country-tinged vibes.
22 year old Ellen Krauss is an acoustic indie-pop artist with a dedicated DIY aesthetic
As a part of the Transatlantic Sessions, Daniel Kimbro has played his American roots to a huge amount of people. Grammy nominated and an accompanist to the likes of Eric Clapton, John Hiatt and Sarah Jarosz, Kimbro is awesome. His latest album, Carpet in the Kitchen, is full of Appalachian murder ballads and the folk traditions of Ireland, Scotland and England. He plays in Bedminster on January 23.
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Bristol’s very own, Fritillaries is the solo project of Hannah Pawson. BBC Radio 6’s Cerys Matthews has described her as “wonderful” and it seems churlish to argue. Using guitar, banjo and harmonium, Fritillaries make beautiful music. Expect a night of dreamy, evocative music on January 24. Cafe Kino deserves so much support at the moment and this gig will be the perfect way to show it.
The Ukrainians’ music is an electrifying blend of folk-punk and traditional Ukrainian rhythms, delivering both energetic performances and political commentary. Their music incorporates both traditional Ukrainian instruments and electric guitar, creating a dynamic sound that is as much about resistance as it is about celebration.
Their recent album The Battle is Not Over is a reflection of their commitment to their heritage, as well as their fight for social justice and freedom. A show not to be missed for anyone interested in folk’s role as a political tool. They play at The Cube on January 16.
The Ukrainians have been fundraising for refugees in earnest and spreading cultural awareness as well as musical joy since the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict escalated in 2022 – photo: The Ukrainians
Celebrate Scotland’s beloved poet Robert Burns at this special Burns Night ceilidh on January 25. A night of dancing, folk music and lively revelry, the ceilidh brings the best of traditional Scottish folk music to life, with energetic ceilidh bands leading the dance floor. Whether you’re a seasoned ceilidh dancer or a newcomer, expect a night filled with high spirits and lively tunes. Whisky, haggis, and good company await!
Enjoy some organised fun of the best possible variety: getting tangled up with friends and strangers in a raucous folk style, all in honour of poet Rabbie Burns – photo: Sam Cavender
Various Sessions
If you’re looking for something a little more informal, Bristol’s many folk and Irish sessions are an excellent opportunity to enjoy live music in a more laid-back setting.
Hare on the Hill: A relaxed, welcoming gathering for folk musicians of all levels. It takes place on the last Wednesday of the month (January 29).
Garden Folk Session at The Greenbank, Easton: Join Alex Garden (of Tarren/ Sheelanagig/ The Drystones fame) on the first and third Tuesday of the month (January 7 and 21) for an all-abilities folk jam.
Folk sessions welcome players of all abilities and are a good way to get out, get playing with people and learn a stack of new tunes to boot – photo: The Hare on the Hill
Main image: The Ukrainians
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