We go out on the first Tuesday of each month and feature music and interviews from the world of folk plus a dash of country and Americana. We highlight local gigs in Surrey, London and the South East and welcome news and requests. Check our Facebook page!

To get in touch with the show please email Bev Harris. And you can follow us on Twitter - @MainlyFolk

Our Shows

January's Mainly Folk 2021

We start off the first Mainly Folk of the year with a special extended feature on singer songwriter Reg Meuross.

Reg has just re-released six of his albums going back to 1996, some of which have been unavailable for some time.

This has given us the opportunity to fully appreciate the wide spectrum of Reg's excellent work as we talk about his career in music, working with a variety of performers to becoming an established solo artist, with compositions ranging from lyrical melodies to stories that bring to life people and stories of social significance.

In addition to great songs from Reg we also have in our two hour show some fine new Folk and Americana releases plus of course another informative 'The Song And The Story' with Hector Gilchrist.

Presenter and Producer : Bev Harris

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December's Mainly Folk 2020

Mixcloud December 2020
December's Mainly Folk features a leading solo performer and a band who have both managed to produce superb new albums despite the limitations of lockdown.

JezLowe is a multi-instrumentalist and he takes full advantage of this in his new album “Crazy Pagan “.

In more normal times he would work in the studio with his band The Bad Pennies.

This time most of the multi tracked instrumentation and vocals are by Jez on his own.

Jez tells us about the process of making this album of original songs which we think is his best to date.



Merry Hell's ace in the hole is John Kettle's production wizardry.
In the second hour we talk to John and Virginia Kettle about the brilliant new Merry Hell album “Emergency Lullabies”.

As you would expect their latest deals with many of the issues we now face but in a way that is nothing short of inspirational.

Fantastic musicianship and a great sense of humour are Merry Hell's trademark and we hope you enjoy as much as we did listening to their music and John and Virginia telling us how they made it with other members of the band plus 200 members of their Social Isolation Choir.

In addition we have this month's “Song and the Story” with Hector Gilchrist on a song by Robert Tannahill plus the pick of the crop of new releases, including some seasonal ones.

Presenter and Producer: Bev Harris 

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November's Mainly Folk 2020

Mixcloud November 2020
In this Month's Mainly Folk we talk to two leading performers who have managed to produce brilliant new albums despite today's challenging circumstances.

Martin Simpson was planning to take a short break from constant touring to concentrate on writing and playing. Unfortunately he, like all other live performers has had to come off the road for a lot longer than he intended.

The plus side is that he has produced “Home Recordings” a thoroughly engaging and intimate new album. We talk to Martin about the stories behind its making and play a selection of its dazzling performances.

After our Americana section Kris Drever talks to us from Glasgow.

Although largely confined to his home Kris has managed with the wonders of technology to work with some of his “golden” musician friends such as Siobhan Miller, Ian Carr and Euan Burton to produce an excellent album of new compositions “Where the Air is Thin.”

The songs and arrangements are multi layered and to our mind is Kris' best work to date. We are sure you will agree.


Last but not least we have another informative “Song and the Story” by Hector Gilchrist to cheer up your November. 

Presenter and Producer: Bev Harris 

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October's Mainly Folk 2020

Mixcloud October 2020
This month's Mainly Folk has some great new music to brighten up the advent of autumn.

Tanya Brittain hails from South Yorkshire but having settled in Cornwall is best known for making some seminal albums with Sam Kelly as 'The Changing Room.'

These recounted tales of Cornish tradition and characters but now Tanya has released a solo album which has a much more personal narrative.
In the first hour of the show we talk to Tanya about 'Hireth' which features great songs drawn from her personal experiences.

In the second hour of the show after our Americana section the focus is on the new folk supergroup The Magpie Arc. Its members include Nancy Kerr, Martin Simpson and Adam Holmes.

All the members of the band are playing beyond their regular styles and together they are creating something different and really special. Nancy tells us how this is achieved in their new EP which is the first part of their debut album.

As usual we have a fine selection of the new folk releases and finish with Hector Gilchrist's 'The Song and the Story' which being October is on the Celtic traditions of Halloween.

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September's Mainly Folk 2020

Mixcloud September 2020
After a summer break Mainly Folk returns with a reinvigorating tonic of new Folk and Americana music.

When the music venues open again make sure you try and see The Magpies. They are four very talented multi instrumentalists and have produced one of the standout albums of 2020, “Tidings”. The collective noun for magpies is 'tidings'; we talk to Holly Brandon about how these Magpies got together and produced such a great debut album.

In the second hour we play a selection of the latest Americana releases and then we have an interview feature with Merry Hell's Virginia Kettle.

Regular listeners to the show will know that we are great fans of Merry Hell and really pleased that now Virginia has released a new solo album. Her songs always have depth and this new album is no exception.

Aided by some of Merry Hell, her vocals and the production do the songs full justice and Virginia gives a great insight into how “There's No Place Like Tomorrow” was created.

We finish off the show with Hector Gilchrist's 'The Story and the Song' which this month is all about the Angus poets, of which one wrote the featured song, 'Norland Wind'.

All in all September's Mainly Folk provides a varied selection of music to cheer us all up.

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July's Mainly Folk 2020

Mixcloud July 2020
This month's Mainly Folk has the pick of the latest Folk and Americana releases plus two special features for all the guitarists out there.
Brooks Williams was one of the first guitarists to be on our programme when we started out eight years ago. His dazzling guitar work, singing and songwriting continue to draw in the crowds.

Now even with lockdown his home sessions manage to convey the warmth and high performance standards of seeing him live. Brooks tells us all about this and plays some songs specially recorded for this feature.

Brooks is a great advocate of Atkin Guitars and in the second half we talk to Alistair himself. He recounts how his luthiery has grown in the last 25 years from a one man operation to the nationally and internationally known brand. Alistair gives us an insight into how he gets his guitars to have that special vintage sound which makes them so desirable.

To finish the show Hector Gilchrist presents the latest 'The Song and the Story' and this time its one of our favorites, 'The Selkie'

All in all, we hope you enjoy the diverse music and conversation in July's Mainly Folk.

Produced and presented by Bev Harris

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June's Mainly Folk 2020

Mixcloud June 2020
We have two folk exclusives in this month's show.

Sam Carter has a great new album, “Home Waters”.

We talk to Sam about its making and the very professional home sessions he has been doing to promote it.

Plus we get first listen of special versions Sam made in the studio.




Nick Awde is international features editor of “The Stage” journal.
He is also a musician, writer and fan of Folk Music.

He has just produced a book entitled “Singer Songwriters” Volume 1 which has interviews with seminal figures of the 60's folk revival who are still going strong today.
We talk to Nick about the book's creation and his plans for the next one!


As usual we have our regular features including our Americana section and the “Song and the Story” with Hector Gilchrist which this month is on Robert Burns 'Westlin' Wind'

All in all an enjoyable way to ease those lockdown blues!

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May's Mainly Folk 2020

Mixcloud May 2020
May's Mainly Folk brings together two recent features which illustrate how today's performers are responding to the national lockdown.
Kirsty Merryn is taking an innovative approach to the current situation and recently masterminded The Home Folk Festival this Easter. Bev Harris talks to Kirsty about her exciting venture to get live music to the fans of folk music. Kirsty was about to go on tour to promote her great new album so this also gives us the opportunity to play some tracks from the excellent “Our Bright Night”.
Next up is our regular feature with Hector Gilchrist , "The Song And The Story". This month's song is "The Last Trip Home" and the story behind it has an authentic rural theme.

In the second hour we have a clutch of the latest Americana releases and then we catch up with John Smith, one of the hardest working performers on today's folk scene. He's the real deal - talented songwriter, gifted guitarist complemented by husky, compelling vocals.
Like Kirsty he would now have been on tour promoting his new album, "Live In Chester".
Bev Harris catches up with John as he prepared to make the best of the current situation by creating a virtual world tour across the different time zones.
You can get a flavour of just how good his latest work is as we get to hear some of the tracks from the new release which capture the immediacy and impact of John playing live.
We hope that all this plus a selection of the latest folk releases will dispel any isolation blues !

Produced and presented by Bev Harris

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Mainly Folk Special Feature:
John Smith Virtual World Tour

John Smith Virtual World Tour
John Smith is one of the hardest working performers on today's folk scene. He's the real deal - talented songwriter, gifted guitarist complemented by husky, compelling vocals. This week he would have been preparing to go on tour promoting his new album, "Live In Chester". Bev Harris catches up with John as he prepares to make the best of the current situation by creating a virtual world tour next week across the different time zones. You can get a flavour of just how good this will be as we get to hear some of the tracks from the new release which capture the immediacy and impact of John playing live. What a great way to spend half an hour to cheer up your day !

Next edition of Mainly Folk is on Tuesday 5 May at 8.0 pm.

Mainly Folk Special Feature:
Kirsty Merryn, The Home Folk Festival

Kirsty Merryn Home Folk Festival Special


KirstyMerryn is taking an innovative approach to the current situation and has masterminded
The Home Folk Festival this Easter weekend Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th April.

In this Mainly Folk special feature Bev Harris talks to Kirsty about her exciting venture to get live music to the fans of Folk music. 

The lineup includes Lukas Drinkwater, Iona Fyfe, Luke Jackson, Alden, Patterson & Dashwood, Greg Russell, Kieran Algar,Steve Knightley and Kirsty herself.

Kirsty was about to go on tour to promote her great new album so this also gives us the opportunity to play some tracks from the excellent “Our Bright Night”.

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April's Mainly Folk 2020

Mixcloud April 2020
It is good to see that in these difficult days that, thanks to technology, Folk and Americana artists are still managing to get their music out to an appreciative audience. In this month's Mainly Folk we feature a range of new releases and two special interview features.

In the first hour we are putting out an interview we did with Burd Ellen at last year's Sidmouth Festival.

Debbie Armour and Gayle Brogan take an innovative approach to Folk Music which is powerful and compelling.








Fresh from his 80th Birthday concert at The Ram Folk Club. Hector Gilchrist returns with "The Song and the Story" while observing the distancing rules!






In the second hour after our selection of the latest Americana selection we talk to Chris While and Julie Matthews in their role as two fifths of Daphne's Flight. They were about to go on tour to support the release of this new album which celebrates 25 years of performing with Melanie Harrold, Helen Watson and Christine Collister. The tour is postponed but the album is still being released. We play tracks from it and Chris and Julie give us the story behind it. They like many artists are turning to live streaming and we hope to feature more of these exciting developments in the time ahead. In the meantime I hope you enjoy the programme and keep well.

Produced and presented by Bev Harris

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March's Mainly Folk 2020

Mixcloud March 2020
This month's Mainly Folk features two very talented couples.

In the first hour we are in the company of Harbottle and Jonas.

They play a variety of instruments and hearing them live it is hard to believe there are only two them as they produce such a rich full sound.


Folk Award Winners Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman celebrate 25 years of making music together in their new album "On Reflection"

and are currently on tour including locally to Brooklands at Landmark Arts, Teddington on March 14th.
In the second hour we catch up with them to find out more.

Last but by no means least we celebrate Hector Gilchrist's 80th birthday in a special "The Song and The Story".

Hector's birthday will be marked by a special gig at The Ram Club, Thames Ditton hosted by Hector and some of the musicians he has worked with over the years.


As usual we have the gig guide and our Americana section which this month highlights young bluegrass artist.

Produced and presented by Bev Harris

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Special Feature

Kathryn Roberts Sean Lakeman Special
Folk Award Winners Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman celebrate 25 years of making music together in their new album "On Reflection" and are going on an extensive national tour to support its release.
They will be playing near to us at The Landmark Arts in Teddington on Saturday 14th March.
Brookland's Bev Harris caught up with them to find out more in this Mainly Folk special feature.

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February's Mainly Folk 2020

Mixcloud February 2020
The first hour of February's Mainly Folk looks forward to one of the outstanding events of the local and national Folk year.

Riverhouse Barn in Walton On Thames is holding the third Walton Folk Festival in May.

Its bill is even more ambitious than the last two years.

We talk to Ed Butcher about 2020's stellar line up




And then give another chance to hear an interview we did with Jenn and Laura-Beth at the 2017 Sidmouth Folk Festival as they are just one of the great acts that will be playing the Walton Folk Festival which will be held the 9th and 10th of May .


In the second hour we have a selection of the latest Americana tracks and then we talk to a real living legend, Judy Collins

She was recently touring over here and her latest album is high in the American Bluegrass charts and you will hear why she is still rated as one of the world's finest singers.

All of this plus the gig guide makes for a lively February Mainly folk.

Presented and produced by Bev Harris

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Mainly Folk Special: Interview With Judy Collins

Judy Collins
Very few artists merit the term "legendary". Judy Collins is definitely one of them.
Her career has maintained a consistently high standard across a whole range of Folk, Americana as well as more mainstream music.
There is a rare opportunity to see her on tour in the UK this spring, including G Live in Guildford on Wednesday 22nd January.
We caught up with her just before she set off on tour and you can hear our conversation this Friday January 10th at 7.30-8pm on www.brooklandsradio.co.uk as well as DAB in local areas, including tracks from her best selling latest album "Winter Stories".

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Mainly Folk Highlights of 2019

Bev Harris presents music and interviews from the world of folk plus a dash of country and Americana and the Gig Guide. This month featuring some of the highlights from the 2019 shows with interviews and music. Produced by Hugh Evans.

Next edition Tuesday 4 February at 8.0 pm.

The show will be available 24/7 on www.brooklandsradio.co.uk/mainlyfolk.html

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December's Mainly Folk Christmas Eve Special

Mixcloud December 2019
December 's Mainly Folk goes out on Christmas Eve and picks the best of an exceptional crop of seasonal releases plus two great interview features.

The first of our interview features is with Yvonne Lyon who continues our seasonal theme with her new album "Songs For Christmas".
You'll be able to hear why  we  think it's an all time great when we catch up with this very talented Scots singer. In the second hour we have our Americana section which includes new releases by Vince Gill and Lady Antebellum.


This is followed by an interview with Peter Knight's Gigspanner we recorded before their recent appearance at Walton Riverhouse Barn.

Peter, Sacha and Roger  gave us an insight into the workings of this hard working trio. We look forward to seeing Peter playing with Steeleye Span again on next year's 50th celebrations.


As usual we finish off the show with the ever informative Hector Gilchrist 'The Song and the Story.'

Don't forget if you miss any of the shows they are available on our Mixcloud page which you can access from our homepage www.brooklandsradio.co.uk/mainlyfolk

Presenter: Bev Harris

Producer: Hugh Evans   

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November's Mainly Folk 2019

Mixcloud November 2019
This month see a bumper crop of new releases, just in time for your winter wishlist!

As the evenings draw in you can cheer yourselves up with one of our highlights from this Summer's Sidmouth Festival. The Brothers Gillespie played there for the first time, they are a fine duo from Wall in Northumberland.
Their harmonies have that special quality which is unique to siblings. You can hear their story illustrated by tracks from their album “ The Fell” in the first hour of the show.

Two family members also feature in our interview feature in the extended Americana section in the second hour.

Husband and wife Annie and Rod Capps have been playing professionally for over thirty years. Their latest album ' When They Fall' is the perfect culmination of their well honed skills both in terms of composition and musicianship.

We love it and think you will when Annie takes us through a selection of their latest songs.

In our regular feature 'The Song and the Story ' Hector Gilchrist is as informative as ever with his version of the 'Menzies Tree'. All this plus the gig guide make for a great November 5th Mainly Folk!

Presenter: Bev Harris

Producer: Hugh Evans   

First broadcast on Tuesday 5th November  8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday November 9th 8-10 pm.

Next edition is Tuesday December 3rd

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October's Mainly Folk 2019

Mixcloud October 2019
As the evenings draw in we can still bring you summer goodies in tonight's show.

Matthew Byrne delighted audiences at this year's Sidmouth Festival with performances drawing heavily from his native Newfoundland. In a Mainly Folk first we did a triple interview with Matthew and fellow broadcasters Peter Grogan from Dublin City FM and Sam Hindley from Sheffield Live.

He also played live for us, a rare treat you can hear in the second hour.


Sidmouth patrons 'Show of Hands' have a new album and a new member, we talk to percussionist Cormac Byrne about the making of 'Battlefield Dance Floor' and we play tracks from the album that showcase the talents of all four members.

We have our regular features, new folk and Americana releases, the gig guide and Hector Gilchrist's 'The Song and the Story' which tells the story of 'The Lavrock' song.





Sadly, last but not least, we have the ultimate episode of the current series of 'Roots Canal'.

Jim Guynan goes out with a bang with his guest Wes Finch of whom I'm sure you will be hearing a lot more of in the not too distant future.


Presented by Bev Harris

Produced by Hugh Evans

Roots Canal section by Jim Guynan   

First broadcast on Tuesday 1st October  8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday September 5th 8-10 pm.

Next edition is Tuesday November 5th (Expect fireworks !)

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September's Mainly Folk 2019

Mixcloud September 2019
We have a great clutch of Sidmouth souvenirs to share with you in September's show.

First off we have a double feature with rising star Nick Hart and the maker of his guitar Duncan Lannin. Duncan had a stall at the Sidmouth Festival and at least one or two people took home one of his fine handmade instruments. You can hear one of them in action when Nick talks about his latest album 'Nine English Folk Songs'.




Another musician who gave some great performances at Sidmouth was Jack Rutter.

He is about to embark on an autumn tour to promote his new album, 'Gold of Scar & Shale'. 

It was great chatting to him, illustrated by some fine guitar playing with seagulls in the background.




By way of contrast Jim Guynan's Roots Canal features an interview with very talented Americana singer Mo Kenney. 

Hear new tracks by Mo, including her latest single 'Ahead Of Myself' and informative chat between her and Jim.


We also have our regular features. Hector Gilchrist's 'The Song and the Story' and the gig guide, plus some excellent latest Folk and Americana releases. 

All in all we are sure you will enjoy September's Mainly Folk !

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Hugh Evans

Roots Canal section presented and produced by Jim Guynan

First broadcast on Tuesday 3rd September  8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday September 8th 8-10 pm.

Next edition is Tuesday October 1st

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August's Mainly Folk 2019

Mixcloud August 2019
As August's show goes out during Sidmouth Folk Week we reflect some flavour of this great festival.

Matthew Byrne is currently playing at the Sidmouth Festival.

We caught up with him before he made the trip from his native Newfoundland.
You can hear why we think his home grown music will take the U.K. by storm.




During last year's Sidmouth we recorded an interview with Jez Lowe focussing on the release of his first book 'The Dillen Doll'.

Check it out in the second part of the first hour and hear some great supporting tracks by Jez.



Five years ago we were knocked out when an Americana star Eve Selis came into our studios to do a live session.

Well lightening strikes twice as on her recent U.K. tour Eve returned to deliver another brilliant set.
Such a nice person and such a great singer !

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Hector Gilchrist returns with the 'Song and the Story' and we finish the two hours with some great tracks chosen by Jim Guynan in his Roots Canal section.

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan

First broadcast on Tuesday 6th August  8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday August 10th 8-10 pm.

Next edition is Tuesday September 3rd

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July's Mainly Folk 2019

Mixcloud July 2019






This month's show is a Sidmouth Folk Week, Special, the longstanding Festival that takes place the first week of August each year.

In the first hour of the show it's Press Officer, Steve Hunt tells us what to expect this year. This beautiful seaside town hosts an amazing range of events. Steve gives us a flavour of these and we play tracks from Richard Thompson, Julie Fowlis and Merry Hell who are just three of the acts you can see there. We also look at the programme for children.

This is followed by an interview with the excellent Jacob and Drinkwater, one of the up and coming acts who will be playing at Sidmouth this year.

We caught up with them at our local Guildford Trinity Festival.




The second hour of the show kicks off with our Americana section and is followed by a recording made last year with the legendary song writer Alan Bell recorded at 2018's Sidmouth. Alan sadly passed away recently and you will be able to hear the fire and passion which informed his songs right into his 83rd year.

Hector Gilchrist plays one of Alan Bell's songs and we finish off the show with his regular 'Story and Song' feature the 'Stone of Scone'.

There is no “Roots Canal” this month as Jim Guynan takes a break after successfully running a stage at the recent Eel Pie Records High Tide Festival but returns next month.

All this plus some recent releases and the local gig guide assures you 2 hour's of summer listening pleasure

Presented and produced by Bev Harris.

First broadcast on Tuesday 9th July  8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday July 13th 8-10 pm.

Next edition is Tuesday August 6th 2019.

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June's Mainly Folk 2019

Mixcloud June 2019
This month's show adopts a slightly different format.
Bev is taking a well earned rest so producer Jim Guynan will be at the helm for a pocket sized one hour version of the programme.
Taking centre stage will be Kevin Jones and Phil Penman of Eel Pie Records in Twickenham who will be previewing the line up for their forthcoming High Tide Festival taking place on Saturday June 22nd.
Also, there will be another chance to hear the excellent Ivor Game and Simon O Grady Roots Canal sessions in anticipation of their appearances at the festival. There will still be time to squeeze in a handful of independent releases from the likes of Craig Joiner and Hoamat Beat from Germany.

Bev Harris returns, as usual, next month.

eelpierecords.com
hannahroseplattbandcamp.com
deanowens.com
kevinhewick.co.uk
hoamatbeat.com
craigjoinermusic.com
ivorgame.com
simonogrady.co.uk

The show will be available to listen to again on Mixcloud.

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May's Mainly Folk 2019

Mixcloud May 2019
Good things come in twos in this month's show as we visit two upcoming festivals and two visiting American artists.

Guildford's Trinity Folk Festival is on the 17th and 18th May. 
Paul Graham, one of its organizers with his wife Caroline, tells us who is playing and how they run this very successful event which is already in its seventh year!




Next up is an interview with Rose Cousins who was recently in the UK promoting one of the best albums to come out in recent times. It's called  "Natural Conclusion". 

We chat to Rose about its creation and play some of our favourite tracks.

You can watch Rose by clciking this link.




In the second hour we kick off with some upcoming Americana releases and then it's over to Josh Harty. 

He played Twickfolk last month and you can hear what life is like on the road with Josh plus a live preview of a song before it goes on his next album.




We finish off the show with Jim Guynan's Roots Canal which this month is about July's Maverick Festival with accompanying music.







All of this plus local gig guide makes for a diverse Mainly Folk reflecting today's thriving scene.
We know you'll enjoy it !

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan.

First broadcast on Tuesday May 7th 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday May 11th. 8-10 pm.

Next edition is Tuesday June 4th 2019.  

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April's Mainly Folk 2019

Mixcloud April 2019
This month's programme reflects the growing appeal of Folk and Americana to wider and younger audiences.


Since its inception last year Walton Folk Festival has attracted fans of all ages. Ed Butcher who with Caroline Smith, organises this great local event tells us what to expect on May 4th and their plans to make it even bigger next year.



The Luck tick so many boxes for modern must see music. We were so pleased that they were be able to play a live session for us and the harmonies of siblings Esmay and Max Luck excelled our expectations. There was also a first for Mainly Folk when part of it was live streamed on Twitch TV !




Two of our regular features reflect the diversity of today’s music. Hector Gilchrist's "The Song and the Story" recalls one of Robbie Burns’ amorous adventures and you can hear his excellent recording of ‘The Gowden Locks O’ Anna’.

Jim Guynan's guests are the jug band Doctor Slideshow in his Roots Canal section.

The duo’s session breathes fresh air into this enduring form of music.

We think you will agree that with the local gig guide and the pick of the latest Folk and Americana  releases there’s a lot to like in this month’s Mainly Folk.

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan.

First broadcast on Tuesday April 2nd, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday April 6th. 8-10 pm.

Next edition is Tuesday May 6th 2019.   

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March's Mainly Folk 2019

Mixcloud March 2019
This month's show features two great new releases, a Roots Canal live session and the return of Hector Gilchrist's "The Song and the Story."

In the first hour we talk to Kris Drever about Lau's great new album "Midnight and Closedown". Lau make remarkable, innovative music and there are plenty of examples here. We play three tracks and Kris gives an insight into the workings of Lau.



We close side one with Hector Gilchrist's "The song and The Story",

Hector tells us all about The Trysting Fair At Falkirk which he has recorded on "Days o' Grace".







Side two kicks off with our Americana section and is followed by Sean Cooney of the Young'uns on their new album "The Ballad of Johny Longstaff".

They have taken this project on the road and it will also be featured at this year's Sidmouth Folk Festival. Anyone interested in twentieth century social history will be fascinated by this great new work.


Our producer Jim Guynan finishes off the show with a live session from local hero singer songwriter Joe Card.

All in all a vintage Mainly Folk for March plus not forgetting a very busy gig guide.




Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan.

First broadcast on Tuesday March 5th, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday March 9th. 8-10 pm.

Next edition is Tuesday April 2nd 2019. 

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February's Mainly Folk 2019

Mixcloud February 2019

This month sees some great new releases and we highlight two of them in our interview features.

It's great to see Merry Hell go from strength to strength. They are always seem to be touring and this summer they finally make it to Sidmouth Folk Week.
We caught up with John Kettle who gives the background to their excellent new album "Anthems To The Wind". We don't think you will be disappointed when you hear some of the tracks very much in tune with the times we live in.

Last year we recorded one of our favourite live sessions with Eric Brace and Thom Jutz when they were touring here. They return with Peter Cooper to Europe in March to promote their new CD "Riverland". In the second hour of the show, from a very cold Washington, Eric tells us about it's making and we get a chance to appreciate just how good these guys are at producing timeless acoustic music.

Lastly Jim Guynan brings to our attention some great Roots Canal tracks. With this and the local gig guide we hope you find plenty to whet your appetite in another tasty Mainly Folk !

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan.
First broadcast on Tuesday February 5th, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday February 9th 8-10 pm.
Next edition is Tuesday March 5th 2019.

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January's Mainly Folk 2019

Mixcloud January 2019

New Year is a time for looking back over the last year as well as forward and we thought this was a good opportunity to select some tracks from recent live sessions plus one of our earlier sessions.



We've chosen some great folk and Americana live tracks that were performed for Mainly Folk including conversation and music with John Doyle in the first hour.






In the second hour there is another chance to hear a special session that Brooks Williams recorded at Brooklands a couple of years ago.






On top of this Jim's Roots Canal guest is Simon O'Grady who preview his new EP.






All this plus a busy gig guide will hopefully get your New Year off to a good start !

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan.
First broadcast on Tuesday January 1st, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday January 5th, 8-10 pm.
Next edition is Tuesday February 4th 2019.

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December's Mainly Folk 2018

Mixcloud December 2018

Expect some seasonal treats when in December's Mainly Folk. Many of you have enjoyed Hector Gilchrist's 'The Song and the Story' part of the show in the last few months.

We thought it's about time we did him full justice so in the first hour we feature a live session with Hector accompanied by another fine singer who Hector has worked with in the past, Sue Graves.


In the second hour after our Americana section we broadcast a very special interview with legendary performer Peggy Seeger.

We recorded it at this year's Sidmouth Folk Week when she released the paperback version of her award nominated autobiography 'First Time Ever'.




We round off the show with another excellent Jim Guynan's "Roots Canal".

Jim's guest is Michael Moravek, an original singer songwriter from Germany whose music has an Americana flavour.




As usual we have our local gig guide plus some great seasonal tracks. Yule be glad you tuned in !

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan. First broadcast on Tuesday December 4th, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday December 8th, 8-10 pm. Next edition is Tuesday 1st January 2019.

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November's Mainly Folk 2018

Mixcloud November 2018

We have two great sessions of live music this month but first of all we find out more about a very important project which has received the support of many stars of the current folk scene.

Forced child migration is a little known unpleasant part of Britain's history More than 100,000 children from Britain were sent overseas to Commonwealth countries including Australia and Canada with the promise of finding a better life. Many found this was very much not to be the case. Like the Windward generation there are still survivors alive today but unlike Windward there has been little media coverage.
This November leading folk musicians take to the road to perform live the album "The Ballads Of Child Migration". They include John McCusker, Michael McGoldrick, Boo Hewerdine, O'Hooley & Tidow, Chris While, Julie Matthews, John Doyle, Jez Lowe, Andy Seward and Andy Cutting with narration by Barbara Dickson. You can find out a lot more when we talk to John Leonard the man behind this major project.

We finish the first hour with Hector Gilchrist's "The Song And The Story". This month Hector tells the real story behind the traditional ballad " The Massacre of Glencoe" .


Ben Kunder is our guest in the Americana section in our second hour.
He recorded a great live session for us, including tracks from his latest album "Better Human" ,when he was recently on tour over here.

Ben was assisted by Carleigh Aikins and together they make some beautiful harmonies and the stripped down versions of his new songs sound fantastic.


We round off the show with our producer Jim Guynan's regular Roots Canal feature.


This month's is rather special as he has local player Ivor Game playing live some great original compositions.



PS ! I should also mention we have as usual the local Gig Guide.

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan. First broadcast on Tuesday November 6, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday September 10 th, 8-10 pm. Next edition is Tuesday 4th December.

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October's Mainly Folk 2018

Mixcloud October 2018

We have a record number of 5 features in this month's Mainly Folk.

John Smith has a fantastic new CD coming out this month called "Hummingbird".

It really has all the ingredients of a classic album.

In the first hour John tells us about it's making and his upcoming gig at Thames Ditton's The Ram Club, which is part of an extensive tour to support it's release.

We have curtailed our second hour Americana section this month in order to broadcast two of our goodies from this year's Sidmouth Folk Week.
Faustus' Paul Sartin and Saul Rose in collaboration with Matthew Crampton put on some great choral performances of the historical narrative "Living By The Sea". Paul's next plans include a project on the Lancashire cotton mills with his bandmates from Faustus. You can hear an exclusive preview track from this as part of our conversation with Paul.

One of the most exciting harmony groups of recent years made their Sidmouth debut this year. Narthen are what used to be called in pop parlance a supergroup. With Barry Coope and Lester Simpson from Coope, Boyes and Simpson and Jo Freya of Blowzabella and Moirai plus sister Fi Fraser of The Old Fashioned and PolkaWorks they make a wonderful sound. You can judge for yourself when we play three tracks from eponymous album and Jo fills in the details of all things Narthen.

Last but not least we have our two regular features, Hector Gilchrist's "The Song And The Story" has a topical Halloween theme and producer Jim Guynan's " Roots Canal" has three great tracks from performers who deserve much wider recognition. All this plus the Gig Guide make for a jam packed October's Mainly Folk.

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan.

First broadcast on Tuesday October 2nd 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday October 6th, 8-10 pm. Next edition is Tuesday 6th November.

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September's Mainly Folk 2018

Mixcloud September 2018

Being officially the beginning of Autumn, September's Mainly Folk brings you the first fruits of this year's Sidmouth Folk Week.

John Doyle is one of our favourite modern folk performers and he played some great music at the festival.

We caught up with him after a terrific set on the Ham stage and he treated us to a couple of songs before they are recorded.

You can hear these and our conversation in the first hour of the show.





Our friend traditional Scots singer Hector Gilchrist was busy at Sidmouth covering the festival for his excellent comprehensive E Festival report. We both enjoyed Fairport Convention's first time at the festival which included their version of 'Sir Patrick Spens.


We agreed that the ill fated Sir Patrick would be a very suitable subject for a proposed new Mainly Folk feature by Hector, 'The Song and the Story'. Tune in and find out more about the fact and fiction behind this much covered traditional song.


As promised we kick off part two with a slightly longer Americana section to make up for its omission last time.
I always find some great new artists at Sidmouth and Canada's Kaia Kater was an outstanding example this year. This very talented singer and banjo player gained a lot of new fans at Sidmouth. Kaia Kater has already been singled out by Rolling Stone magazine as a star in the making and we definitely agree. I think you will too when you hear our special on her in the second hour.


Finally our producer Jim Guynan puts the spotlight on roots based performers who deserve a lot more attention.
All this and the gig guide make a very varied and we believe a very enjoyable September 'Mainly Folk.'

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan.

First broadcast on Tuesday September 4th, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday September 8th, 8-10 pm. Next edition is Tuesday 2nd October.

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August's Mainly Folk 2018

Mixcloud August 2018
We now have a new home on the first Tuesday of each month. The music, however, is still just as great, and August's show includes two interview features with artists performing at this week's Sidmouth festival.


Peter Knight is an exceptionally gifted violinist whose playing has graced a wealth of music over the years, including Steeleye Span and his own band, Gigspanner.

His talents will be showcased at Sidmouth this year and we caught up with him prior to the festival in his home in France. Get a taste of what to expect and hear how his music has developed in the first hour of the show.



Next on the bill is young folk artist Chris Cleverly. Chris isn't at Sidmouth but recently appeared at a local folk club, The Anchor in Byfleet.


He managed to find some time to chat to us about his route into folk music, his plans for a trio and even got to play us an instrumental !




John Doyle has been a "go to" guitarist for many years.
The last time I saw him was as a member of the Transatlantic Sessions and this year he is one of the standout performers at Sidmouth Folk Week.

We managed to talk to him while he was on a sell out Swedish tour. Tune in to hear more of his adventures in the second hour when we will be playing some great tracks from his last album.






As the clubs are largely closed in August we have held over our gig guide to next month but we still manage to get in a smattering of Americana plus our Producer Jim Guynans' Four Folk Finds showing off the talents of four independent artists.

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan.

First broadcast on Tuesday August 7th, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday August 12th, 10-12 pm.
Next edition on Monday July 2nd 2018 at 8.0 pm.

Next edition is Tuesday 4th September.

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July's Mainly Folk 2018

We have three special features in this month's Mainly Folk.

As the festival season gets into full swing we preview next month's Sidmouth Folk Week.
Sidmouth is this country's oldest running festival and always has a large and varied bill. Keeping up the standard from year to year must be hard but this year they have surpassed themselves.

In the first hour we highlight some of the artists performing there from
2018's extensive lineup.

Dan Walsh is one of the rising starts of the new generation of folk performers. We caught up with him at the new Walton Folk Festival where he was playing as part of the Urban Folk Quartet.
Dan talks about that band, working as a solo artist and his newly formed trio and you can hear why the energetic Mr Walsh is a much sought after singer and banjo player.


In our second hour we have our regular American section followed by a real scoop.
We loved Canada's The Small Glories' album "Wondrous Traveller" and were excited to see they were coming over here on tour. Even better we managed to get them into the studio to play a live session.
The duo are Cara Luft (ex Wailin' Jennys) and J D Edwards who comes from a rock background and together they make a great, dynamic sound.
Don't just take our word for it, tune in and hear for yourself !

As usual we have the local gig guide plus a selection of the latest folk releases.

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan.

First broadcast on Monday July 2nd , 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday July 7th 10-12 pm plus Tuesday 3rd July 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners. Next edition on Monday August 6th 2018 at 8.0 pm.

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June's Mainly Folk 2018

Mixcloud June 2018
Last month saw two excellent festivals local to Brooklands Radio The Walton Folk Festival is in a new venture and in the first hour of the show you can hear our conversation with Ed Butcher, one of the organisers, who told us how it came about and their plans for the future.

The festival was based at the Riverhouse Arts Centre and one of the stand out acts was Kim Lowings and the Greenwood. We caught up with Kim straight after her performance and found out more about her and the band and we also play some great tracks from their recent albums.

The Trinity Folk Festival has been going for a number of years now and takes place in a local church and pub in Guildford. As usual, Paul and Carolyn Graham recruited an excellent selection of artists. It gave us our first chance at last to see the West country duo Ninebarrow.

You can hear how good they are when we play tracks from their latest album, "The Waters And The Wild" Jon and Jay tell us what goes into making a successful folk duo that is definitely on the way up.

Besides all of the above we have our Americana section and the gig guide plus a special new feature by our producer Jim Guynan.

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan.

First broadcast on Monday June 4th , 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday June 9th 10-12 pm plus Tuesday 5th June 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners. Next edition on Monday July 2nd 2018 at 8.0 pm.

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May's Mainly Folk 2018

Mixcloud May 2018
In the first hour we play tracks from a great new CD Light The Evening Fire, the debut album from Glymjack.

Glymjack is the brain child of singer-songwriter Greg McDonald. He tells us how he and Sam Kelly percussionist Evan Carson and fiddle virtuoso Gemma Gayner put the album together.
There is a definite Show of Hands feel to the album, which is not surprising as it was was produced with Show of Hands' Phil Beer, and features Steve Knightley and Miranda Sykes. We are sure you will like it

in the second hour we shine the spotlight on one of the best British bluegrass bands in the land, Cardboard Fox.
Charlotte Carrivick (guitar/vocals) and Laura Carrivick (fiddle/vocals) are well known in UK folk and bluegrass circles from their band The Carrivick Sisters. The sisters are extremely talented multi-instrumentalists and as you will hear have even made their own instruments. The line up is completed by John Breese on bass and banjo and Joe Tozer , who I must say is one best mandolin players I have heard since Nickel Creek's Chris Thile. The new album is called Topspin and as they say "it's a cracker !'

As usual we have the gig guide, Americana section and the latest folk releases. Plus Jim Guynan provides us with his guide to this year's Maverick Festival !

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan.

First broadcast on Monday May 7th , 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday May 12th 10-12 pm plus Tuesday 8th May 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.
Next edition on Monday June 4th 2018 at 8.0 pm.

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April's Mainly Folk 2018

Mixcloud April 2018
It's almost 50 years since Steeleye Span set off on it's path to to international fame and fortune.
Steeleye's lead singer Maddy Prior has continued to innovate and develop as an artist throughout all that time both within and outside the band.
She is currently on tour and we get a chance to see her in a trio setting with Hannah James and Giles Lewin at the Landmark Arts Centre in Teddington on April 20th.
They have just released a lovely new album called "Shortwinger" and in the first part of the show we talk to Maddy and play tracks from the new CD.

Fairport Convention's 1969 "Liege And Lief" set the benchmark for the seminal folk rock record and not many albums since have come up to this high. Well, in my humble opinion, Sam Carter and Jim Moray's band False Lights have managed it with their new release, "Harmonograph". They have taken a selection of traditional songs and made them totally fresh and compelling. We catch up with Sam who shares insights into the new album and even gives a brief exposition of Shape Note singing which has influenced several of the songs.

In the second hour we have a live session from Nashville's Rod Picott.

In the last show we played a track from his new double CD "Out Past The Wires" and I said "Wouldn't it be great if we could get Rod to play live in the studio ". Well, we managed it and you will be able to hear some brilliant stripped down, acoustic versions of some of his new tunes.

Rod is currently on tour and if you get chance to see him, grab it !



As usual we have the gig guide and of course, the Americana section.

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim (Golden Ears) Guynan.

First broadcast on Monday April 2nd, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday April 7th 10-12 pm plus Tuesday 3rd April 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners. Next edition on Monday May 7th 2018 at 8.0 pm.

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March's Mainly Folk 2018

Sanjay is one of the most interesting artists on the scene today. He works within the original folk Blue's style of the early sixties folk revival developed in the USA.

We caught up with him just before a gig at Twickfolk and we were treated to some great foot tapping playing which we are sure you will enjoy.






Josie Duncan's musical progress is quite remarkable from last minute addition to Celtic Conections to winner of the BBC Young Folk Awards with her musical partner Pablo Lafuentes.

They have just produced the one of the best debut albums we have heard for a long time. We play some great tracks as we chat to Josie.




As usual we have our Americana section plus a very full gig guide.

And as a special treat our engineer Jim Guynan plays some tracks from his recent Australian sojourn.

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February's Mainly Folk 2018

Mixcloud February 2018
This month we play some great new tracks, including a special album feature and an excellent live session.

Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman are great favourites of the show and we always get excited when there is a new release
The latest is called "Personae" and is a great step forward in this talented duo's progress.

We caught up with Kathryn prior to going on tour to support the album. She gives a great insight into how the new material was written and then produced. The duo have chosen some very unusual topics on which to base these new songs and each track is of a consistently high standard.
Definitely a contender for the best album of 2018 already!


We have been trying to get Atlantic Sons into the studio for over a year and finally we have managed to get Scott and Darren to do a live session for us.

Scott writes great songs in a folk Americana style and we managed a personal first, a pedal steel guitar in Brooklands.

Darren is one of the best players around of this tricky instrument and the two of them together make a fantastic sound. I think you will agree when you tune into the second hour.



As usual we have the gig guide and as promised the Americana section returns.

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim (Golden Ears) Guynan.

First broadcast on Monday February 5th, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday February 10th, 10-12 pm plus Tuesday 6th February 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.

Next edition on Monday March 5th 2018 at 8.0 pm.

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January's Mainly Folk 2018

Mixcloud January 2018
We kick off the new year with three great interview features plus a competition!

Some of the finest of today's performers have got together to create a new production of the legendary 'The Transports'.
This was first developed at the Sidmouth Folk Week festival and is now going on tour.
It will be performed at Guildford's G-Live on Thursday January 18th and you can win a pair of tickets to see them there.
All you have to do is listen to our interview with the musical arranger Paul Sartin and you will find the answer to a very simple question.

Answers and address please to bev@brooklandsradio.co.uk


Another great night out will be when Martin Simpson plays at the Landmark Arts Centre in Teddington on 26th January.


He has just produced an exceptional new album 'Trails and Tribulations'. We play tracks from it and Martin tells stories behind its making.


Join us for a great chance to hear from an artist who goes from strength to strength with each new album.


It's taken over a year to get the legendary Archie Fisher into the studio but with some help from the Ram Club's Bob Wood we finally made it.

To do Archie and the story of his lifelong involvement in Folk justice, we have dedicated the whole of the second hour of the show. (We promise to make it up to the Americana fans next month!)

Archie's account of his career is fascinating and his time with us just flew by. Tune in and you will hear why.





Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan and Graham Laycock.

First broadcast on Monday January 1st, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday January 6th, 10-12pm plus Tuesday 2nd January 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.

Next edition on Monday February 5th 2018 at 8.0 pm.

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December's Mainly Folk 2017

Mixcloud December 2017
This month we have two great features plus some rather fine seasonal tracks in the latest releases.

Sidmouth Folk Week is renowned for showcasing new, emerging talent and this year was no exception. I'm always impressed by the high standard of musicianship and Alden, Patterson and Dashwood are one of the most talented and versatile of the current crop. Their music has elements of Folk and Americana, the later being aided by some fine dobra playing from Noel Dashwood.I caught up with them at the bustling Bedford Hotel. Join us in the first hour of the show when we talk about their careers so far and play tracks from their debut album, "Call Me Home", which amply illustrate how good they are.

The second hour of the show has a special seasonal treat. The legendary folk rock band Hunter Muskett released an excellent new album this year ("Unafraid And Sober" ). Roger Trevitt from the band talked us through some of the tracks in our April programme. We thought it would be great if they could play some of them live in the studio. This proved a little hard to achieve as one of their number lives abroad but we have finally managed to get two of them into the studio. Roger and Terry Hiscock perform as duo when they are not on Muskett duties (sorry couldn't resist the pun) and as you will hear it was well worth the wait with great songs and fine playing.




This month's gig guide is slightly shorter than usual as the clubs take their Christmas breaks but there is still some great live music to be seen.

Seasons greetings from all of us at Mainly Folk.

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan.

First broadcast on Monday December 4th, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday December 9th, 10-12pm plus Tuesday 5th December 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.
Next edition on Monday January 1st 2018 at 8.0 pm.

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November's Mainly Folk 2017

We have two great full length features in this month
Mixcloud Little Machine Live in Session

The Young 'Uns have come a long way from three lads singing unaccompanied in their local folk club.
The standard of their singing and use of dynamics has been a constantly improving and award winning trajectory. Coupled with this though is the outstanding quality of Sean Cooney's song writing. Their latest album is a prime example of this and contains many enriching and insightful tracks with a sharp focus on the "Outsider". We talk to David Eagle about the making of "Strangers" and learn about the real stories behind some of these great songs.

Our main focus in the second hour is slightly different for Mainly Folk – a poetry band.

Little Machine are currently on tour with Roger McGough but managed to find time to visit and play a live session in our studios. Putting poems to music has been done before but Little Machine show they are today's leading exponents of the craft. We certainly enjoyed listening to them in the studio and look forward to seeing them again when they play at Landmark Arts, Teddington on December 2nd.



As usual we have our local gig guide, plus of course a great selection of the latest releases in Folk and Americana.

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan.

First broadcast on Monday November 6th, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday November 11th, 10-12pm plus Tuesday 7th November 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.
Next edition on Monday December 4th 2017 at 8.0 pm.

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October's Mainly Folk 2017

Mixcloud October 2017
John Kirkpatrick has been a fixture of the British folk scene for so long that we are in danger of forgetting how multi talented he is.

We caught up with John at this year's Sidmouth Folk Week. He arrived in full Morris attire which reflected just one of the passions that John has.
He was also leading a workshop which at the end of the week had produced a large scratch band that performed on stage; and all this having just released a new solo album which he had multi tracked all of the constituent parts !

It was truly a pleasure to hear John talk about some of the highlights of his his long career. We are sure you'll enjoy it too, plus of course the music, including tracks from his new CD "Coat Tails Flying".



If you have ever wondered wondered how some of your favourite recordings have such beautiful sounding acoustic guitars the chances are the artist was using a vintage instrument.

In the second hour of the show you will get to hear a real expert talk about this side of today's Folk and Americana scene.

Let Tony Werneke be your guide into this exciting world of aural delight.


Josienne Clarke and Ben Walker gave a stellar performance at Sidmouth this year. If you haven't seen them live we urge you to get tickets for the current Richard Thompson tour on which they are doing the support.

At a very noise backstage of the Sidmouth Ham marquee Josienne and Ben chatted about their story so far and the making of their latest album "Overnight".
Join us in the last part of the show for informative conversation and great music.

Last, but not least, we have the Gig Guide which is very busy this month.

Presented by Bev Harris Produced by Jim Guynan.

First broadcast on Monday October 2nd, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday October 7th 10-12pm plus Tuesday October 3rd 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.
Next edition on MondayNovember 6th 2017 at 8.0 pm.

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September's Mainly Folk 2017

Mixcloud September 2017
I always come away from Sidmouth Folk Week amazed at the musical virtuosity of the performers playing there and especially of the ever improving standard of the younger, emerging artists.The duo Jenn Butterworth and Laura-Beth Salter are, judging by the performances I saw and their new CD, at the forefront of the latter group. Their mastery of their instruments, mandolin and guitar are very apparent but what was so exciting was the interplay that they made look so effortless coupled with outstanding harmonies. In the first hour of the show you will be able to hear what I mean and let Jenn and Laura-Beth tell us more about their lives as part of the thriving Glasgow music scene.

This month we dedicate the whole of the second hour to a very special Americana section with two complementary features.
A new record shop setting up is a rare event. One like the new Eel Pie Records is even rarer. Find out what is so special about this new shop in Twickenham when we talk to one of the founders Phil Penman. What he and fellow founder Kevin Jones have achieved in a few short weeks is remarkable. Tune in and catch the excitement of this great new venture.

Eric Brace and Thomm Jutz recently concluded their U.K. tour in Twickenham. They are both very talented musicians from Nashville.

The other week they played a 'taster' gig at Eel Pie Records and headlined at TwickFolk in the evening. They also very kindly agreed to play a live session for Mainly Folk in between.
We hope you enjoy this opportunity to hear their fine songs, singing and great acoustic guitar playing.

In addition to all of the above the Gig Guide makes a triumphant return after it's summer break !

Presented by Bev Harris Produced by Jim Guynan.

First broadcast on Monday September 4th, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday September 9th, 10-12pm plus Tuesday September 5th 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.
Next edition on Monday October 2nd 2017 at 8.0 pm.

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August's Mainly Folk 2017

Mixcloud August 2017
The first hour of this month's programme is again given over to artists playing at this year's Sidmouth Folk Week which will be under way when you hear this. As usual our Americana section is in the second hour, which includes a great live session from Steve Mayone straight from the recent Maverick Festival.

Coope, Boyes and Simpson has revolutionised three part unaccompanied singing and now, sadly, are on their farewell tour.

Fortunately this includes the Sidmouth Folk Week. We caught up with Lester Simpson just before the festival who is a veteran of the festival both as a performer, MC and presenter of artist interviews.

Lester gave us an insight into the last phase of the trio and some of his exciting plans for what happens next.

In the second hour we have a great live session from Steve Mayone, who is based in Brooklyn, New York. We played a track from his latest album Sideways Rain in our last programme and wondered how the excellent songs on that album would stand up to being played stripped down.

This is always a good test of how good a song is. We needn't have worried as you will be able to hear for yourself. Steve is supported by a local player, Chris Robins, on bass, who we drafted into the studio at the last moment. The end result made for some great music !

As most of the clubs are closed for the summer there is no gig guide this month. It will return, however, next show.

Presented by Bev Harris Produced by Jim Guynan.
First broadcast on Monday August 7th, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday 12th August 10-12pm plus Tuesday 8th August 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners. Next edition on Monday September 4th 2017 at 8.0 pm

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July's Mainly Folk 2017

Mixcloud July 2017
The whole of the first hour of this month's programme is given over to the forthcoming Sidmouth Folk Week


We play tracks from some of the great artists playing there this year and have a special feature on The Changing Room

whose Tanya Brittain who will be playing with Sam Kelly and their extended lineup on the Tuesday.
Tanya has been hugely influential in promoting live music and festivals in the South West.. Originally from Sheffield, she has lived in Looe, Cornwall for ten years, providing an excellent backdrop and source of inspiration for her songwriting. You can hear just how good these songs are and how well she and Sam perform them when we play tracks from their recent album "Picking Up The Pieces". Tanya gives us the background to this album and tells us about her latest plans, including Sidmouth.

In the second hour we have our Americana section as usual and to finish off the show we have a real treat ! We were really fortunate to get Zak Hobbs to pop into Brooklands Radio to play a live set prior to his recent performance at the Ram Club in Thames Ditton.
Zak is a very talented songwriter, singer and guitarist. He also teaches guitar with his grandfather, Richard Thompson, at the latter's annual guitar camp in the States. You will be able to hear why when you listen to tonight's great session.

For a video preview of tonight's live session, please click Here

Presented by Bev Harris Produced by Jim Guynan.

First broadcast on Monday July 3rd, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday July 8th, 10-12pm plus Tuesday 4h June 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.

Next edition on Monday August 7th 2017 at 8.0 pm.

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June's Mainly Folk 2017

This month we feature artists who have experienced considerable success but in totally different fields.
To win one folk award is a rare reward, to win two in the same evening is even rarer. Rachel Newton, however, achieved just that in this year's BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards; one for solo performer and the other as a member of The Furrow Collective who won best group.
As a curtain raiser to this year's Sidmouth Folk Week we talk to Rachel who will be playing this year with the Collective. Rachel is one of our best harpists but is also a multitalented performer. You can judge for yourself when we play tracks from her solo and Furrow Collective releases.

Sometimes dreams come true. When we first heard the album "Bonfire To Ash" by Porter Nickerson we thought wouldn't it be wonderful to get the Milwaukee duo to play live at Brooklands but thought the chances were zero.Then we found out they were over here on tour and even better were happy to pay us a visit. Best of all they played a fantastic acoustic set that put a smile on everybody's face in the studio.
Willy Porter has played as a soloist with a host of top names including Paul Simon, Sting and even Jethro Tull. When he teamed with Carmine Nickerson they struck Americana gold. I think you will agree when you tune in to hear them live in session in the second hour of the programme..

As usual we have our local gig guide plus of course a great selection of the latest releases in Folk and Americana.

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan.

First broadcast on Monday June 5th, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday June 10th, 10-12pm plus Tuesday 6th June 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.

Next edition on Monday July 3rd 2017 at 8.0 pm.

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May's Mainly Folk 2017

Mixcloud May 2017
This month we turn the spotlight on two different but very gifted musicians.
The term multi-talented is so often used as a description that it has lost a lot of its power. Jon Boden, however, truly merits its application. You may recall him leading that vibrant multitude known as 'Bellowhead' or earlier in the award winning duo Spiers and Boden. His innovativeness in music and theatre goes way beyond that and is now put to good use in his new solo tour.
I got a taste of the edgy and adventurous solo music of Jon Boden at Sidmouth Festival last summer. I am sure you will enjoy hearing tracks from his updated album "Painted Lady" and sharing in our recent conversation with the adventurous Mr Boden.

If I was asked to pick the five best guitarists in country music, Kenny Vaughan would be at the top of my list.
His virtuoso picking in the aptly named Marty Stuart And His Fabulous Superlatives as well as solo and countless session work is truly awesome.

Anybody lucky enough to see him recently with Marty and the band at this year's Country 2 Country festival will certainly attest to this.

We are therefore very fortunate to bring you in the second hour Kenny talking about his long career in music and playing tracks from the band's superlative new album "Way out West."


As usual in addition to our Folk and Americana new releases we have the local gig guide, which this month is exceptionally busy . If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan.

First broadcast on Bank Holiday Monday May 1st, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday May 6th, 9-11pm plus Tuesday May 2nd 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.

Next edition on Monday June 5th at 8.0 pm.

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April's Mainly Folk 2017

has the latest releases plus two interview features from different sides of the folk spectrum.

Mixcloud April 2017
Dave Burland has an instantly recognisable voice and this coupled with his guitar playing and dry sense of humour has made him a favourite on the folk scene over the year.

He has just released a new CD with the Awkward Squad which are two of his former band colleagues. The album is called Okkard and includes many well known songs which benefit from the Burland treatment.
Dave guides us through a number of tracks from the CD and as ever he and his music is a pleasure to listen to.
www.facebook.com/events/927804087267391/

Hunter Muskett were a legendary Folk Rock band in the late sixties and early seventies.

After a one off reunion gig in 2010 the response was so good that they decided to reform. Their latest release is called Unafraid And Sober and is a very good reason for their continuation.

Bass player Roger Trevitt brings us up to date with the Hunter Muskett story and helps us to choose music from the CD. It includes fine songs, great playing and even a guest vocal by Jacqui McShee. Definitely recommended.


In addition we have a very packed local gig guide plus the Americana section which includes tracks from the new Brothers Osborne and Gillian Welch albums

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan.

First broadcast on Monday April 3rd, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday April 8th, 10-12pm plus Tuesday 4th April 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.

Next edition on Monday May 1st 2017 at 8.0 pm.

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March's Mainly Folk 2017

keeps our promise to have an extended Americana section in the second hour as we had to curtail it last month but we still have space for two great features plus of course the local gig guide.
Mixcloud March 2017

The name Lakeman is well known on today's folk scene. Sean, Sam and Seth Lakeman are at last now joined on record by their Dad Geoff. He has just released a brilliant debut album aptly titled "After All these Years" produced by his son Sean. We caught up with Geoff to find out a bit more about this "overnight success". Geoff is in fact already an established performer in the West Country folk scene and patron of the Cornwall Folk Festival. But his singing and playing have had to be in second place to his long career as a Fleet Street journalist.
He is now able to concentrate full time on his music and as you will hear from the tracks we play he is a fine concertina player, with a strong voice and ability to write a catchy song. Geoff tells us what it is like to be produced by your own son and working with the famous folk musician friends who helped him create this fine album.

Ned Roberts is an acoustic singer-songwriter based in London. This does not make him unique but what does is that his music was good enough to be picked up by american producer Luther Russell of Noah and The Whale fame who brought him to Los Angeles to record.
They have just released a second album "Outside My Mind" which has a great folk Americana crossover sound, helped by being mastered by John Fischbach, who has worked with Carole King and Stevie Wonder.
In the second hour of the show Ned tells us about the distance he has travelled both physically and musically to make this CD. We think you will agree he has a great future ahead when you hear Ned's new music.

Presented by Bev Harris. Produced by Jim Guynan.

First broadcast on Monday March 6th, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday March 11th, 10-12pm plus Tuesday 7th March 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.

Next edition on Monday April 3rd 2017 at 8.0 pm.

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February's Mainly Folk 2017

is crammed full of news and interviews and great music.
Mixcloud February 2017

We caught up with Bob Fox and Jez Lowe at last summer's Sidmouth Festival.
They had showcased some new material that was going to be part of 2017's tour of the Pitmen Poets. Next week on February 15th Kings Place in London will be hosting the latest performance of the show that Kings Place initiated.

It is therefore timely to transmit what was a great conversation with Jez and Bob, including some of the songs from the show. Bev is joined by Hamish Burgess from Hawaii's Maui Celtic Radio whose listeners are just as keen to hear from Bob and Jez.


Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman are great favourites of Mainly Folk and they are about to go on a major tour, We have two chances to catch them in our area, They are on at the Ram Club in Thames Ditton on February 10th and Landmark Arts, Teddington on March 30th.
In the second part of the first hour you can hear Kathryn and Sean telling us about what to expect, illustrated with tracks from their last album. it will certainly whet your appetite to go and see them live !

Siobhan Miller has won Scots Singer Of The Year award twice, When you hear songs from her great new album "Strata" you will appreciate why.

In the last part of the second hour of the show you will get a chance to do this and learn about Siobhan's journey from singing to her grandparents as a young girl to performing at Celtic Connections and on to the international stage.



Because we have so much to cram in tonight's show we have had to cut down on the Americana section but that will be back to its full glory next month. We manage to get the February Gig Guide into the programme but this month its straight after the Americana tracks.

If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday February 6th, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday February 11th 10-12 midnight plus Tuesday 7th November 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.

Next edition on Monday March 6th at 8.0 pm.

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January's Mainly Folk 2017

gives another chance to hear two great features which certainly deserve another airing.

John Renbourn was one of the most innovative and technically accomplished acoustic guitarist emerging from the 1960's folk revival. Alongside Bert Jansch he developed a "folk baroque" finger style which inspired a whole generation of players. As John's wife Judy Horton was in a unique position to witness the development of this remarkable performer.
Judy fills in the details of the journey that John took from being a fellow student at Kingston Art School, to a regular performer at Soho's Les Cousins; then forming Pentangle with Bert, Jacqui McShee, Danny Thompson and Terry Cox.
This in turn took them from a residency in Tottenham Court Road to America and beyond.

In the second hour we have a fantastic live session from
Cathryn Craig and Brian Willoughby. Cathryn has sung with many of Nashville's greats, including Nanci Griffith and The Righteous Brothers. Brian is best known for being a member of the Strawbs but has played with performers ranging from Mary Hopkin to Monty Python (!). Together they make a lovely sound with classy vocals and dazzling guitar work.
They were also the organisers of the Folk for Peace single Rumours of Rain which features many of the famous performers they have worked with over the years, Videos of tracks from this session are available on the Mainly Folk YouTube channel.

First broadcast on Monday January 2nd, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday January 7th, 10-12pm plus Tuesday 3rd January 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.

Next edition on Monday February 6th 2017 at 8.0 pm.

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December's Mainly Folk 2016

It's customary at this time of year to look back over the highlights of the last 12 months and we at Mainly Folk are no different. There is a slight twist, however, in that tonight's compilation has been selected by Will, our engineer.
Like you we are interested to see what he chooses.

If the pre Christmas rush means you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday December 5th, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday December 10th 10-12pm plus Tuesday 6th December 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.

Next edition on Monday January 2nd, 2017 at 8.0 pm.

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November's Mainly Folk 2016

We welcome back two great acts in this month's double feature.

Merry Hell have just released their fourth album, Bloodlines and it is even better than their last release. Catchy tunes and perceptive lyrics are Merry Hell's stock in trade but as we find out when we talk to the band's John Kettle they are not afraid to deal with contemporary difficult issues.

See what you think when we preview the album in the first hour of the show. And if you get a chance to see them live, grab it. You will be assured of a great evening out.

Brooks Williams has just come back from a long tour of the States and is straight away starting on a UK tour to support the release of his new album, My Turn Now.

He will be playing a local date, the Ram Club in Thames Ditton on Friday December the 9th. We caught up with a not too jet lagged Brooks to find out more about the new material which he will be spotlighting in his tour set.
Needless to say they feature great songs supported by smooth vocals and of course his trademark dexterous playing which also now includes the use of a cigar box guitar.

It's always a pleasure to chat to Brooks and I think you will agree when you tune in to the second hour of tonight's show.

Besides all this we have the latest Folk and Americana releases plus our local gig guide. If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday November 7th,8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday November 12th 9-11pm plus Tuesday 8th November 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.

Next edition on Monday December 5th at 8.0 pm.

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October's Mainly Folk 2016

This autumn is a season of bounty and not just in things to eat, for there are a fine crop of new releases. Two of which are from the guests on tonight's show.

Nancy Kerr and James Fagan are one of the busiest duos working in today's folk scene.
Last time I saw them Nancy had added extra musicians to deliver a storming set at Sidmouth Folk Week. Now she has just released a new CD, "Instar", with her Sweet Visitor band. Needless to say it features fine singing from Nancy and excellent musicianship. What it also shows is how her writing of topical songs has evolved into her being a writer of considerable skill. We catch up with Nancy in the first hour of the programme and share her enthusiasm for what is a great new album.

Chris Wood is a songwriter whose work always repays close attention. His lyrics tackle the smaller, often overlooked details of everyday life and he places them in unique musical contexts. His latest album "So Much To Defend" is due for release and is a strong statement of where he is now musically. His current weapon of choice is a semi acoustic guitar. Usually the preserve of jazz musicians, in Chris's hands it becomes a rich tonal palette in service to these new folk based compositions. Chris launches a new nationwide tour to support the album's release which commences on November 5th at the Landmark Arts Centre, Teddington.
Tune in to hear Chris talk about how he got to make this groundbreaking new album in the second hour of the show.

As usual we have our Americana section, Fish Record's CD of the month plus our local gig guide. If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday October 3rd,8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday October 8th, 9-11pm plus Tuesday 4th October 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.

Next edition on Monday November 7th at 8.0 pm.

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September's Mainly Folk 2016

September's Mainly Folk is slightly different. We have our main Americana feature in the first hour in order to dedicate the second hour of the show to a very special interview with a major folk performer !

Eve Selis' name on an album is always a sign of of something good to look forward to. Her latest, "See Me With Your Heart" is no exception. We took advantage of Eve touring over here recently and she told us the story behind the very now sound of this CD which combines the best elements of Americana, Rock and Country.

"See Me With Your Heart" marks a big step forward in terms of lyrical depth and variety from slow burn ballads to foot tapping country pop. See if you don't agree with us when we talk to Eve in the first half of the show.


One of the joys of making Mainly Folk is that we get to meet some great people and in this case someone who really is that overused term "living legend". Tom Paley was a founder player of the original folk revival of the 1950's and is still working today. We caught up with him at this year's Sidmouth Folk Week where he played quite a few sets with his son Ben (Long Hill Ramblers). No mean feat for an 88 year old !

Tom tells us about artists he knew, including those with whom he worked. Players such as Leadbelly, Woody Guthrie, Pete and Peggy Seeger and of course Mike Seeger and John Cohen in the ground breaking New Lost City Ramblers. Tom has been cited as an influence by so many people, most notably by a certain young folksinger called Bob Dylan. Tune in to hear our special extended feature which is illustrated by some great music, Tom has a lovely dry sense of humour and Ben is happy to join in with his Dad in this unique interview.

As usual we have our our local gig guide plus Fish Record's CD of the month. If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday September 5th, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday February 10th, 8-10pm plus Tuesday 6th September 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.

Next edition on Monday October 3rd at 8.0 pm

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August's Mainly Folk 2016

Tonight's programme is our second curtain raiser for Sidmouth Folk Week which is this very week !
Phil Henry and Hannah Martin
We have seen Phil and Hannah several times at Sidmouth and each time they have gone down even better than the time before. Theirs is a true Sidmouth story as they were "discovered" when busking by Folk Week patron Steve Knightley of Show of Hands.
This year they will be appearing with their new Watershed band from their new album of the same name. We caught up with Phil just before the festival to find out more and play tracks from this excellent CD.

Blair Dunlop
Today's folk scene has strong links to the original 60's folk boom, not least through the children of the first wave of artists following in their parents' footsteps. Names such as Thomson, Wainwright and of course Carthy come to mind.

Blair Dunlop is making his own unique contribution in the same way his parents, Judy Dunlop and Ashley Hutchings did before him. He has just released a new album, "Gilded" and it is one of the best CDs we are likely to hear this year.
He is a talented songwriter and guitarist and this album really does him justice with sympathetic accompanying musicians. In the second hour of the show Blair guides us through his latest work and plans to take it on the road.

Lucy Farrell
As many of the clubs are closed in August we have dropped the gig guide for this edition. This gives us a chance to repeat last month's interview with Lucy as she talks about what to expect from her performance this year at Sidmouth Folk Week.

It also includes some great music from some of the bands she has worked with.



Besides all the above we have managed to squeeze in our Americana slot plus of course our Fish Record's CD of the month. If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday August 1st, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday August 6th, 8-10pm plus Tuesday 2nd August 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.

Next edition on Monday September 5th at 8.0 pm

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July's Mainly Folk 2016

Tonight's programme is a curtain raiser for Sidmouth Folk Week which starts at the end of this month. We feature two of the artists who will be at Sidmouth, plus an extended gig guide in which we will play a selection from some of the many great acts that are playing this year.

We last caught up with Lucy Farrell at Sidmouth in 2012 when she was in a duo with Jonny Kearney. Since then she has been involved in a number of projects and bands, including the Furrow Collective.
Its time for Lucy to take centre stage and she will be previewing her latest solo material this year at Sidmouth.
In the first hour of the show Lucy updates us on what she has been up to and what we can expect to hear from her at the festival.
Plus of course we play a good selection of tracks from Lucy's varied discography.


Alice Jones last played at Sidmouth with the legendary Pete Coe on music collected by Frank Kidson project. They are both back at Sidmouth this year but in very different roles.
Alice has just released her first solo album "Poor Strange Girl". We think its one of the best new releases this or any other year. See what you think when we play tracks from it and talk to Alice about its making.
Alice has always been involved in the wider aspects of the folk scene and this year is no different as she will also be working backstage at the Ham concert area during Folk Week.
Join us for an insight into Alice's adventures in all things folk !


Besides our extended gig guide we haven't forgotten our Americana slot plus of course our Fish Record's CD of the month. If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday July 4th, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday July 9th, 8-10pm plus Tuesday 5th July 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.

Next edition on Monday 1st August at 8.0 pm

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June's Mainly Folk 2016

This month's Mainly Folk features the creators of two great album releases.
In the first hour we speak to Jim Causley about his great new CD "Forgotten Kingdom". Jim always has a number of projects on tt to find out what is next in the busy Causley music schedule.


Three times nominated in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and double winners of the Spiral Earth Awards Megson draw heavily on their Teesside heritage to create a truly unique brand of As fRoots Magazine puts it "if you don't like the music here then you have a problem".


They have just brought out a grs year.



As usual we have a fine selection of the latest releases, including Fish Record's CD of the month, the local gig guide and our Americana slot. If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.


First broadcast on Monday June 6th, 8-10pm with a repeat on SaturdayJune 11th, 8-10pm plus Tuesday 7th June 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.

Next edition on Monday 4th July at 8.0 pm

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May's Mainly Folk 2016

Kris Drever celebrates his first decade as an acclaimed solo artist and songwriter with a brand new studio album If Wishes Were Horses. The album is his first for six years (during which time his band Lau have established themselves as the most widely acclaimed and musically progressive trio in British folk music). If Wishes Were Horses is a collection of semi-biographical songs covering the diverse themes of education, politics, sex, love, ennui, self-employment, social migration and Shetland. Drever's recent outpouring of songs stems from a move back to the Northern Isles. Shetland this time rather than his native Orkney. We talk to Kris about the making of this great new album and play tracks which we are sure you will enjoy.

West My Friend Since West My Friend was conceived in a Victoria café in 2009, they've emerged as a unique voice in the city's music scene. Described as everything from indie-roots to chamber-folk, their acoustic blend of instruments and four-part harmonies challenges the conventions of popular music to create a performance that is both engaging and innovative. We caught up with this fine Canadian group at the start of their European tour to promote their new album Quiet Hum and they managed to squeeze in an excellent live session for us. You can hear the result in the second hour of the show. You won't be disappointed !

Besides all this we have our Americana section, Fish Record's CD of the month plus our local gig guide. If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday May 2nd, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday May 7th, 8-10pm
plus Tuesday 3rd May 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.

Next edition on Monday 6th June at 8.0 pm

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April's Mainly Folk 2016

April is the time we look forward to the Summer and one early Summer event is
the Trinity Folk Festival in Guildford on the 6th and 7th of May. The Trinity Festival is now in its fourth year and in the first hour of this month's show we talk to its founders Carolyn and Paul Graham. This year the festival is in more venues and has even more top notch players, including Greg Russell and Ciaran Algar, the Luke Jackson Trio, Ninebarrow and Kelly Oliver. Carolyn and Paul give us an insight into what is involved in running this popular event and to whet your appetite we play music from some of the featured artists.

Sam Carter is one of the most talented and original writers on today's folk scene and an exceptional guitarist, both acoustic and electric. Having worked in London for ten years, including artist in residence at the South Bank, he has now produced a great new album which is heavily influenced by the city itself. "How The City Sings" has great acoustic tracks plus others which build on the electric songs that featured in last year's False Lights collaboration with Jim Moray. You can get a chance to hear these in the second hour of the show when we talk to Sam.
Plus we have a special competition where you can win a pair of tickets to see Sam in concert at The Landmark in Teddington on Friday April 22nd, which is part of their special weekend Guitar Festival.

This month our Americana section is back, plus of course Fish Record's CD of the month and also our local gig guide. If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday April 4th, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday April 9th, 8-10pm plus Tuesday 5th April 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.

Next edition on Monday May 2nd at 8.0 pm

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March's Mainly Folk 2016

We have a lot to squeeze in this month. Besides the latest releases and gig guide we have a very special hour long feature in part two of the programme

Scottish-based Irish traditional singer and flute player Nuala Kennedy celebrates ten years as a solo recording artist in 2016 with the launch of her fourth solo album and her first album release on her own label Under the Arch Records. "Behave the Bravest" was recorded over six months on three continents while on tour as "Nuala Kennedy Band" in Sydney Australia, Los Angeles California and in her longtime home of Edinburgh, Scotland. We caught up with her in California as she is currently on an extensive tour to support this fine album. You can hear Nuala talk about her career so far and hear tracks from the album in the first hour of the show.

John Renbourn was one of the most innovative and technically accomplished acoustic guitarist emerging from the 1960's folk revival. Alongside Bert Jansch he developed a "folk baroque" finger style which inspired a whole generation of players. As John's wife Judy Horton was in a unique position to witness the development of this remarkable performer. Judy fills in the details of the journey that John took from being a fellow student at Kingston Art School, to a regular performer at Soho's Les Cousins; then forming Pentangle with Bert, Jacqui McShee, Danny Thompson and Terry Cox which in turn took them from a residency in Tottenham Court Road to America and beyond.

She also lets us know about the proposed memorial concert for John at Cecil Sharp House in September and the sale of his vast collection of instruments that is on at Chandlers Guitars in Kew.

If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday 7th 8-10 pm, Tuesday 8th 3am and Saturday 8-10 pm.
Next edition on Monday April 4th at 8.0 pm

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February's Mainly Folk 2016

We have two very special features in this month's programme.

Fellside Records is celebrating 40 years in the business and was formed by Paul Adams and Linda Adams in 1976 in Workington, Cumbria, and still run by them. Fellside have over 130 titles still in print, including albums by Spiers and Boden, Nancy Kerr & James Fagan, Dr Faustus, A. L. Lloyd, Peter Bellamy, James Keelaghan, Clive Gregson, The Queensberry Rules, Jez Lowe, Last Orders, Bram Taylor, and Grace Notes. Their anthologies have included songs by Maddy Prior, Richard Thompson, Frankie Armstrong, John Kirkpatrick and Martin Carthy.
Most of the Fellside catalogue was recorded and produced by Paul Adams which is an amazing achievement. The label has won many awards including 12 For Excellence from the Music Retailers Association. Paul is widely regarded as one of the best recording engineers for acoustic music of his generation and you can hear him telling us about how Fellside got to forty in the first hour of tonight's programme.



Fay Hield's first two solo albums, Looking Glass (2010) and Orfeo(2012), won many accolades as well as a nomination for the Horizon Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. Her latest album Old Adam is one of the best folk music CDs we have heard in a long time.

We caught up with Fay just before she goes out on tour to support its release and she gives us the story behind how it was made. Besides being an outstanding performer Fay also lectures at the University of Sheffield and we find out more about what this involves.

As usual we have our Americana section, Fish Record's CD of the month plus our local gig guide.
If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday February 1st ,8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday February 6th, 8-10pm plus Tuesday 2nd February 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.
Next edition on Monday March 7th at 8.0 pm

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January's Mainly Folk 2016

A new year brings great crop of new releases to this month's programme plus two excellent special features.

Barluath are a young energetic group fronted by Ainsley Hamill, who handles songs from the Gaelic tradition as well as from traditional Scots, contemporary folk and Americana sources.
The six band members all come from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and their music makes good use of fiddle, pipes, whistle, bouzouki, guitar and harmonium. We caught up with them after a storming set at the Sidmouth festival and play tracks from their debut and latest album.



This programme has been a long term supporter of Merry Hell, a brilliant English folk rock band from Wigan, Lancashire, Their music combines wit and dexterity and is downright catchy. They have released 3 great albums so far but to see them live is even better. To get a flavour of what this is like they have just released a live DVD, "A Grand Night Out" recorded at a sell out gig at The Grand, Clitheroe. In the second hour of the show we play tracks from this and talk to their hard working manager, Damian Liptrot. Join us for what is a good way to shake off any mid winter blues !

Besides all this we have the latest releases in our Americana section, Fish Records CD of the month plus our local gig guide.
If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday January 4th, 8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday January 9th, 8-10pm plus Tuesday 5th January 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.
Next edition on Monday February 1st at 8.0 pm.

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December's Mainly Folk 2015

This month's programme has a definite seasonal feel to it.

Maddy Prior and Steeleye Span has recently released a "catch up " album of highlights from their long career supported by a UK tour of their latest line up.

We caught up with founder member Maddy Prior at the start of the tour who brings us up to date with all things Steeleye and other folk related events in her life.

Plus we give an advanced play of a new version of "Somewhere Along The Road" taken from the new CD.


In the second hour of show we talk to Simon Care of
The Albion Christmas Band and play tracks from their albums.
The Albion Christmas Show is a seasonal mixture of carols, spoken word, humorous readings and dance and is the perfect way to start festivities.
They are currently on tour and you can get a flavour of what to expect in our conversation.

As usual we have our Americana section, Fish Records CD of the month plus our local gig guide.
If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday December 7th ,8-10pm with a repeat on Saturday December 12th, 8-10pm plus Tuesday 8th December 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.
Next edition on Monday January 4th at 8.0 pm.

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November's Mainly Folk 2015

It might be a bit early but you can expect antipodean and Canadian based musical fireworks in our two featured bands this month.
The James Brothers are in fact not brothers and only one of them is called James. James Fagan is Australian and is also one half of Nancy Kerr & James Fagan (musically and maritally).
The other outlaw is New Zealander Jamie McClennan who is also in a duo with Emily Smith to whom he is also married.
Together the "Brothers" make great acoustic music drawing on both of their traditions plus creating music which is uniquely their own. We caught up with James at Sidmouth Folk Week and think you will find our conversation and music captures the enthusiasm of this exciting new venture.

When we first played a track from Canada's Bill Wood and The Woodies we knew they would be the ideal group to play a live session at Brooklands Radio. We could not believe our luck when we heard they were coming over here this autumn and even more incredibly could squeeze in some time with us on their busy touring schedule. You can hear the result in the second hour of the show. Live they are even better than we hoped for. Great self penned songs and the kind of playing you only get from years of solid live performances. All in all this is one not to miss !

Besides these two great features we have the best of the latest folk and Americana releases, local gig guide and of course Fish Records CD of the month.

If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.
First broadcast on Monday November 2nd at 8pm and repeated on Tuesday November 3rd at 3pm for our Transatlantic listeners and on Saturday 7th November at 8pm.
Next edition on Monday December 7th at 8 pm.

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October's Mainly Folk 2015

has a special album feature in the first hour and a great live session in the second.


Having already made a name for themselves on the UK acoustic circuit,
Katriona Gilmore and Jamie Roberts are known as much for their exceptionally dynamic live shows as they are for their prize-winning songs. With international tours and a formidable new album "Conflict Tourism" the duo are racing from strength to strength. You can catch up with them in the first hour of the show and enjoy some great music.



The Galleons are a 6 piece Indie-Folk band from Brighton. Equally at home playing in a darkened, candle-lit cellar as they are in a sunny (or more often rainy) festival field, their music takes the audience from catchy, foot stomping folk-rock to mellow, mysterious lullabies and back. They've been on numerous live radio sessions including the BBC, sold out venues such as the world famous Stables and even recorded in a dungeon! Three of the band played a brilliant live acoustic session for us recently, with music from their last album "Cloud Physics" plus some songs in preparation for their next. Don't miss out on hearing them in the second hour of the programme.



As usual we have the latest releases in Folk and Americana, our local gig guide and Fish Records CD of the month.
If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.
First broadcast on Monday October 5th at 8 pm and repeated on Tuesday October 6th at 3pm for our Transatlantic listeners and on Saturday 10th October at 8pm.
Next edition on Monday November 2nd at 8 pm.

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September's Mainly Folk 2015

The first hour of this month's show features music and conversation from this year's Sidmouth Folk Week.


Kirsty Bromley launched her debut album, "Time Ashore" at Sidmouth and shares with us some highlights from it and how she got involved in the folk scene. She is currently on tour with the Spooky Men's Chorale and has made a good start on what we think will be a long career.



Jo Freya continues to develop her innovative approach to music. She is not only a singer but more unusually she is also a folk saxophonist and put these skills to full use in the new trio Moirai who played some great music at Sidmouth. They have a new album called"Sideways" and tracks from it illustrate an enjoyable discussion we had with Jo.




In the second hour we have our usual Americana section which has some excellent new September releases. This is followed by a special feature with Ross Ainslie, stalwart of the Glasgow session scene and member of Treacherous Orchestra. Ross has produced his second solo album, "Remembering". Its his first foray into songwriting and you won't be disappointed by the result.


As usual we have our local gig guide and Fish Records CD of the month, which also happens to be Will, our engineer's pick of the month.
If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.
First broadcast on Monday September 7th at 8 pm and repeated on Tuesday September 8th at 3pm for our Transatlantic listeners and on Saturday 12th September at 8pm.
Next edition on Monday October 5th at 8 pm.

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August's Mainly Folk 2015

features some of the headliners from this year's Sidmouth Folk Week.


In the first hour we talk to Paul Sartin of Bellowhead, Faustus and Belshazzar's Feast who plans to be at Sidmouth for the whole week culminating in playing a rousing set with Faustus in the Ham on Friday night. At the end of the month he will be in one of Bellowhead's farewell performances at Towersey Festival, so there is a lot to talk about !



The legendary Vin Garbutt tops the bill Monday night at Sidmouth. Vin gives us insights into what has made him such a firm favourite over the years and we feature songs from his latest album "Synthetic Hues".




In the second hour we are in conversation with
Chris and Kellie While who are doing a short tour to promote their new CD "Indigo".We caught up with them at their recent gig at
The Ram Club, Thames Ditton.



As most of the clubs are closed for August there is no Gig Guide this month, which gives us a chance to squeeze in some more music and conversation including a track from Kirsty Bromley's debut album "Time Ashore" which she is launching at Sidmouth. We also have as usual Fish Records CD of the month and our engineer Will's pick of the bunch.

If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.
First broadcast on Monday August 3rd at 8 pm and repeated on Tuesday August 4th at 3pm for our Transatlantic listeners and on Saturday 8th August at 8pm.
Next edition on Monday September 7th at 8 pm.

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July's Mainly Folk 2015

July's Mainly Folk is a curtain raiser for this year's Sidmouth Folk Week which starts on July 31st.

Sidmouth is Britain's longest running festival and is famed for its vast range of activities. This year is no exception and in the first hour of the show John Braithwaite, the festival's director, gives us the lowdown on some of the artists appearing and a flavour of some of the 700 events that will be taking place.




One of the artists appearing at Sidmouth is Emily Portman and in the second hour she talks to us about the festival and making her new album Coracle. Emily won the BBC best original folk song award in 2013 and Coracle is further evidence of why she won.



As usual we have the latest releases, Fish Records CD of the month, local gig guide and of course our engineer Will's pick of the month.

If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.
First broadcast on Monday July 6th 8 pm and repeated on Tuesday July 7th at 3pm for our Transatlantic listeners and on Saturday 11th July at 8pm.
Next edition on Monday August 3rd at 8 pm.

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June's Mainly Folk 2015

Sally Barker last year came to national attention as Tom Jones' finalist in BBC TV's "The Voice". She is better known on the folk scene as a long standing solo performer and founding member of The Poozies. In June's Mainly Folk she tells us about her latest work, including The Poozies new album, " Into The Well" their appearance at this year's Sidmouth Folk Week plus news about singing with the reformed Fotheringay.


One of the breakthrough band's at last year's Sidmouth was the Manx trio, Barrule. They have just released a brand new CD and are going on tour to support its release. We catch up with Tom Callister to hear what they have been up to and play tracks from "Manannan's Cloak", which builds on the dynamism of their debut with some terrific arrangements.


We have been fans of Wigan's Merry Hell since their first recordings and at last managed to catch up with the band on one of their rare forays to London. In fact they are now touring all over the place and are showcasing their great new album, The Ghost In Our House And Other Stories". Members of the band generously took time off just before going on stage to talk to us about all things Merry Hell


In addition to all this we have the local gig guide and the latest releases, including a preview track from Richard Thompson's "Still" which comes out at the end of this month.
Plus, of course, our Fish Records CD of the month and last, but not least, our engineer Will's special selection.

If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday June 1st 8 pm and repeated on Tuesday June 2nd at 3pm for our Transatlantic listeners and on Saturday 6th June at 8pm.

Next edition on Monday July 6th at 8 pm.

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May's Mainly Folk 2015

has a bumper crop of new releases and two special artist features.


In the first hour we talk to Emily Smith, who is about to go on a nationwide tour as well as starring at this summer's Sidmouth Folk Week. We play tracks from her recent album "Echoes" which includes collaborations with fellow players from the Transatlantic Sessions, Jerry Douglas and Aoife O'Donovan.




In the second hour Fabian Holland returns after his live session for us in December 2013 last year He has a brand new album which is getting great reviews for its memorable songs and great arrangements. Fabian gives us the story behind its making and lets us know what he is up to next.


As usual we have Fish Records CD of the month plus our local gig guide. Plus a new feature where our engineer Will Goodwin gives us his new musical discovery of the month. If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday May 4th 8 pm and repeated on Tuesday May 5th at 3pm for our Transatlantic listeners.

Next edition on Monday June 1st at 8 pm.

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April's Mainly Folk 2015

As Bev is recuperating from an eye operation, this show is a fine compilation from some of our past programmes selected by Will Goodwin, the show's engineer. If you missed them the first time round you have another chance to hear the following interviews and sessions:

	West My Friend - Originally broadcast February 2015
	Sean Lakeman and Kathryn Roberts - Originally broadcast July 2014
	Brooks Williams - Originally broadcast May 2012
	Nancy Kerr and James Fagan - Originally broadcast July 2013

First broadcast on Monday April 6th, 9-11pm and repeated on Saturday April 11th, 8-10pm

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March's Mainly Folk 2015

In the first hour of the show we catch up with one of our all time heroes, Stefan Grossman, before he sets off for his UK tour.


Stefan is a foremost authority on the blues guitar and got to meet and learn from many of the greats who are now sadly no longer with us.

He was introduced to the English folk scene of the mid sixties by Eric Clapton and Stefan gives us a fascinating insight into that world and his continued championship of all things connected to playing folk blues guitar.




In the second hour we talk to an American duo who are also about to tour over here.
The Kennedys are the finest exponents of American Folk Rock currently playing today. Their new album "West" is about to be released and it is their best yet. We play tracks from it and Pete and Maura gives us the stories behind the music.




Finally Dan Walsh is also bringing out a new CD, "Incidents and Accidents" and is embarking on a major tour to support its release. Dan first came to prominence as one half of the award winning Walsh and Pound. He tells us what it is like to be a solo banjo player on tour and his simultaneous musical adventures as a new member of the Urban Folk Quartet.

If that isn't enough we also have a selection of the latest releases,our gig guide and of course Fish Records CD of the month.
Join us this Monday 2nd March 9-11pm, with a repeat on Saturday 7th March 8-10pm,
plus Tuesday 3rd March 3-5am for our transatlantic listeners.

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February's Mainly Folk 2015

has special features on musicians from Scotland, America and Canada


Besides the latest releases we talk to the award winning Skerryvore who are one of Scotland's leading folk rock bands. We talk to Alec Dalglish about their latest release, "Chasing The Sun" which is a fine, stirring addition to their catalogue and paves the way for their 10th anniversary in May.




Drew Holcomb. and his band The Neighbours are no strangers to these shores. Drew is based in Nashville and writes songs that not only get good airplay in the States but are also used in popular American TV series such as House and How I Met Your Mother. Drew's new album, "Medicine", is released this month and he and the band are over here to support it. Drew gives us a preview and provides insights into its making





Folk based Canadian band West My Friend are on their first tour of Europe. They are getting great reviews and we are very pleased to announce that they have taken time out to visit our studios to play a live session in the second hour of the show.



Finally we have Fish Records CD of the month plus our local gig guide. If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday February 2nd , 9-11pm and repeated on Saturday February 7th, 8-10pm

Next edition on Monday March 2nd at 9.0 pm.

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January's Mainly Folk 2015

It's a new year and January's show has plenty of new music.


Besides the latest releases we talk to the award winning duo,
Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman about their new album. which is in our opinion their best yet. Kathryn and Sean are just about to embark on an extensive tour to promote this fine collection of new material.


In the second hour we have our Americana section followed by a career retrospective with Kevin Dempsey. Originally in the legendary Dando Shaft, Kevin went on to work with a host of talented musicians including members of Fairport Convention and most notably Dave Swarbrick. Today he is best known for his duo with Rosie Carson with whom he will be touring with Fairport this spring. Kevin tells what life is like working with so many people across the years.


As usual we have Fish Records CD of the month plus our local gig guide. If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday January 5th , 9-11pm and repeated on Saturday January 10th, 8-10pm

Next edition on Monday February 2nd at 9.0 pm.

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December's Mainly Folk 2014

is brimful with goodies


Damian Liptrot from one of our favourite folk rock group's Merry Hell, plays tracks from their new EP and gives us all the band's latest news.


Last seen in the company of the top Nashville stars on Bob Harris' recent TV show, Chris While has just released a new album with Julie Matthews. We think it's their best yet. See what you think and listen to their account of how it came together in the second hour of the show. You won't be disappointed.




As usual we have Fish Records CD of the month plus all the latest seasonal releases and our local gig guide. If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Wednesday,December 3rd, 8-10pm and repeated on Saturday December 6th, 8-10pm

Next edition on Monday January 5th at 9.0 pm.

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November's Mainly Folk 2014

    Click Here for Playlist


This month's Mainly Folk will brighten up your November with some treats recorded at this Summer's Sidmouth Festival.
We meet exciting new performers from Australia, The Mae Trio


Talk to leading authority on the folk scene, Derek Schofield


And have an in depth interview with music from virtuoso guitarist Tony McManus

All this plus the latest releases, including Fish Records album of the month and a very full local gig guide. If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.



First broadcast on Monday November 3rd , 9-11pm and repeated on Saturday November 8th, 8-10pm.
Next edition on Monday December 1st at 9.0 pm

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October's Mainly Folk 2014

Brooks Williams is one of the finest and hard working performers on today's folk scene. In this month's programme he tells us about his new album recorded on his recent American tour, which captures all the immediacy of him playing live.


We also talk to Ben Savage of rising new band The Willows and play tracks from their latest release, a great example of their high standards of playing and harmony.



As usual we have the Fish Records CD of the month, plus the latest releases and our local Gig Guide.
Finally listen out for this month's competition to win tickets to see Cara Dillon at G-Live on November 9th.
If you miss any of the show it will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday October 6th , 9-11pm and repeated on Saturday October 11th 8-10pm.

Next edition on Monday November 3rd at 9.0 pm

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September's Mainly Folk 2014

We're back from our summer holiday at Sidmouth Folk Week with a clutch of interviews that we will be broadcasting in the next couple of programmes.



First up is Kris Drever who gave a great performance with Eamonn Coyne at Sidmouth and you can win a chance to hear him play in London this month if you tune in to our competition.


In the second hour we talk to Thomas McCarthy about Traveller traditional music and the launch of his new album, Herself and Myself.



Plus exciting Welsh band Calan and their manager Huw Williams, who was previously with Tony Williams and now tours with Fairport's Martin Allcock.



All this plus the latest new releases and the local gig guide in September's Mainly Folk.
If you miss any of it the show will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday September 1st, 9-11pm and repeated on Saturday September 6th 8-10pm.

Next edition on Monday October 6th at 9.0 pm

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August's Mainly Folk 2014

The first hour of August's programme is dedicated to Sidmouth's Folk Week's 60th.

Besides tracks from some of this year's performers we talk to Sidmouth favourite Sandra Kerr about her varied career and involvement with the Festival. Our conversation is illustrated by some outstanding music reflecting Sandra's enthusiastic contribution and support for the folk tradition.

Please Note: You can also find features and music from many of Sidmouth Folk Week's performers past and present on our Mixcloud and YouTube channels. Just click on the link above.



In the second hour we have a live session from Berkley,Hart,Selis and Twang. This is a special project in which Americana star Eve Selis and long time member of her band, Marc Twang have joined up with Berkley Hart, the melodic folk rock duo. Together they write not only great songs but also produce harmonies which easily compare to The Eagles and Crosby, Stills and Nash.


To finish up with, in collaboration with Fish Records, we play a track from our album of the month. Hope you enjoy this month's varied programme. If you miss any of it the show will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk after transmission.

First broadcast on Monday August 4th, 9-11pm and repeated on Saturday August 9th 8-10pm.

Next edition on Monday September 1st at 9.0 pm

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July's Mainly Folk 2014

July's Mainly Folk features in the first hour an interview with Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman who we caught up with just before a recent outstanding performance at the Half Moon in Putney. We play tracks from their albums and find out what they are up to next.






In the second hour we have conversation and live music from singer songwriter Sarah McQuaid. Sarah holds dual US and Irish citizenship and lives in rural England when she is not extensively touring. Her session will also be available on our YouTube channel after transmission.



As usual we squeeze in some of the latest releases plus our local gig guide.
We also launch a new feature, in association with Fish Records, our album of the month. Plus a chance to win a signed copy of Maz O'Connors new CD. After transmission the programme will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk.

First broadcast on Monday July 7th, 9-11pm and repeated on Saturday June 12th 8-10pm.
Next edition on Monday August 4th at 9.0 pm

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June's Mainly Folk 2014

On June's Mainly Folk we talk to Stu and Debbie Hanna of Megson and play tracks
from their new album "In A Box", which is attracting rave reviews.








In the second hour we have an excellent live session from American singer songwriter
Krista Detor. As a bonus this will also be available on our YouTube channel after transmission.


All this plus the latest releases and our local gig guide will make you feel summer has finally arrived ! After transmission the programme will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk.

First broadcast on Monday June 2nd 9-11pm and repeated on Saturday June 7th 8-10pm.

Next edition on Monday July 7th at 9.0 pm

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May's Mainly Folk 2014

Ben Paley grew up surrounded by folk music. (His father is the legendary Tom Paley).

Ben and his band The Long Hill Ramblers are playing at this year's Sidmouth Folk Week
and we catch up with him in the first hour.


You can also hear from two performers who are playing locally this month.

Josienne Clarke and Ben Walker

They are both classically trained and this lends a special difference to their music.




In the second hour we have a fantastic live session from Cathryn Craig and Brian Willoughby.

Cathryn has sung with many of Nashville's greats, including Nanci Griffith and The Righteous Brothers. Brian is best known for being a member of the Strawbs but has played with performers ranging from Mary Hopkin to Monty Python (!). Together they make a lovely sound with classy vocals and dazzling guitar work.

Folk for Peace single Rumours of Rain

Hear and see for yourself as after transmission this session will be available on the Mainly Folk YouTube channel.

In addition we have the regular local gig guide and new releases. Last, but not least, this month we have a competition to win a pair of tickets to see Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman at the Half Moon in Putney on June 4th.
Entries must be with bev@brooklandsradio.co.uk by 28th May. Best of luck.

After transmission the programme will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk.

First broadcast on Monday May 5th 9-11pm and repeated on Saturday May 10th 8-10pm.
Next edition on Monday June 2nd at 9.0 pm

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April's Mainly Folk 2014

is a curtain raiser for Sidmouth Folk Week's 60th anniversary festival.
We talk to 2 of the headlining acts.

In the first hour it's Roy Bailey, including touching on the work he did with the late Tony Benn.

roybailey.net




In part two we feature the award winning Chris Wood. chriswoodmusic.co.uk

We also have a competition to win tickets to see Hannah James and Sam Sweeney play a final date at the Riverhouse Arts Centre on April 23rd, plus all the latest CDs and gig guide.



After transmission the programme will be available 24/7 on www.mixcloud.com/Mainly_Folk.

First broadcast on Monday 7th April at 9.0 pm and repeated on Saturday 12th April at 8.0 pm.
Next edition on Monday May 5th at 9.0 pm

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March's Mainly Folk 2014

Bev Harris presents music and interviews from the world of folk plus a dash of country and Americana with the latest CDs, gig guide and a whole lot more including announcing the winner of our competition to win 2 free tickets to see The Oysterband performing at G-Live on Sunday 9th March.


In the first hour luthier David Oddy talks about his wide ranging work for artists
such as Show of Hands and Chris Wood






And in part two we have a live session from an exciting new duo who have already played
The Bluebird Cafe in Nashville,

The Black Feathers. Produced by Will Goodwin.

After broadcast you can see videos of the Black Feathers' live session on www.youtube.com/MainlyFolk


To get in touch please contact bev@brooklandsradio.co.uk.

R – First broadcast on Monday at 9.0 pm and repeated on Saturday at 9.0 pm. Next edition on Monday 7th April at 9.0 pm.

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February's Mainly Folk 2014

we talk to long term folk club favourite Dave Burland,

providing the perfect excuse to remind us what a great singer he is.






In the second hour Lucy Portman introduces her latest project – The Furrow Collective.
This brings together the Emily Portman Trio and Alasdair Roberts
to play traditional gems from both sides of the English/Scottish border.



As usual we have the latest releases and gig guide but in addition we have a new competition.
You can win 2 free tickets to see The Oysterband performing at G-Live on Sunday 9th March.

Join us on Monday 3rd February from 9 - 11pm, with a repeat on Saturday 8th at 9pm.
And an extra repeat for our Transatlantic listeners on Tuesday 4th from 3 - 5am UK time.

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January's Mainly Folk 2014

has not one but three interview features.

In the first hour we talk to a founding father of the folk revival, admired by many rock guitarists such as Keith Richards, the legendary Wizz Jones.





In the second hour we catch up with ex Wailin' Jenny's Canadian singer Annabelle Chvostek prior to her UK tour and then .....



.... to Nashville's Drew Holcomb who is also coming over here with his band, The Neighbors.




All this plus the latest releases and gig guide, Monday 6th January from 9 - 11pm,
with a repeat on Saturday 11th at 9pm.
And an extra repeat for our Transatlantic listeners on Tuesday 7th from 3 - 5am UK time.

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Mainly Folk Special Feature: Martin Harley and Sam Lewis Live Session

Saturday 14th December at 9.00pm

In this Mainly Folk Live Session we welcome two fantastic singer songwriters to our studios - local boy Martin Harley and from Nashville, Sam Lewis. The pair are currently on tour together and Bev talks to them about how they met and their collaborations, and they play some fantastic live tracks in our studios.


For information about tour dates and their latest albums, be sure to check out their websites - links above.

You can also check out the live performance videos on our new Mainly Folk Live Sessions YouTube channel.

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December's Mainly Folk 2013

On the show we talked to leading
exponent of the Folk Scene, Martin Carthy .....





...... and had a live session from rising star, Fabian Holland.


This session is also available on our
new YouTube Mainly Folk channel


All interviews can be listened to via Feedburner - see above.
And if you miss any of the broadcasts it will also be available after transmission on Mixcloud.

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November's Mainly Folk 2013

featured interviews and music from two of today's leading performers.

In the first hour we talked to Lester Simpson including,
with Remembrance Sunday fast approaching, his
commemorative work of those who fought in the First World War.




The  award  winning Jim Moray   is  performing  a  sell-out  special  concert  on 9th November at Union Chapel to mark the 10 anniversary re-release of his seminal album "Sweet England". In the second hour he talked about how his career has developed since its release.




All interviews can be listened to via Feedburner - see above.
And if you miss any of the broadcasts it will also be available after transmission on Mixcloud.

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Mainly Folk Special 2013

Sunday 20th October, 10.00pm  (repeated Tuesday 22nd, 8.00pm)

Stacey Kent

A best-selling member of the Blue Note roster of recording artists,
Stacey has had eight best-selling albums, a string of awards, and a
fan base that enables her to sell out concert halls around the world.

Stacey's album, 'Breakfast On the Morning Train', went platinum in
France, gold in Germany, and was also nominated for a 2009
Grammy Award. Bev Harris caught up her with prior to a rare UK performance
at the Landmark Arts Centre, Teddington on November 9th.

This Brooklands Radio Special includes tracks from her new album The Changing Lights
which is being released in over 30 countries and which she is currently promoting on a
world wide tour.

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October's Mainly Folk 2013

features an interview and live music from –

Nancy Kerr and James Fagan recorded at the Sidmouth festival.




In the second hour Brooks Williams plays tracks from
his great new album, live in the studio.


You can also see the songs he plays on our new YouTube Mainly Folk channel


All this plus a packed gig guide and the latest folk and Americana releases -
next Monday, 7th October from 9 – 11pm,
with a repeat on Saturday at 9pm.
And one for our Transatlantic listeners on Tuesday from 3 - 5am UK time.

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Mainly Folk Special 2013

Friday 20th September, 11.00pm

What have Joan Baez, Janis Ian, Peter, Paul & Mary, Nanci Griffith,
Garth Brooks and Art Garfunkel all have in common?

They have all covered songs by, or worked with, today's guest Buddy Mondlock.

In this Brooklands Radio Mainly Folk Special, Buddy talks to Bev Harris about
his long career in music and plays live in session with bass player Mike Lindauer.

You can also check out the live performance videos on our new
Mainly Folk Live Sessions YouTube channel.

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September's Mainly Folk 2013

is an aural postcard from Sidmouth Folk Week.

We have conversation and music from Irish super group Flook .....



                   Paul Sartin from Faustus previews their new album and .....  



Sarah McQuaid plays live before embarking on
her 3-month UK and American tour.




All this plus a packed gig guide and the latest releases Monday 2nd September 9-11pm
and Saturday 7th at the same time.
Plus a repeat on Tuesday 3rd at 3 am for our Transatlantic listeners.
And if you miss any of the broadcasts it will also be available after transmission on Mixcloud.

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August's Mainly Folk 2013

features artists connected with this month's Sidmouth FolkWeek.


We kick off with fine West Country singer, James Findlay.




Then we talk to Jim Causley about the
Poetry of Charles Causley production
that is being performed at the festival.




Finally, in the second hour Jon Cleave of
Fisherman's Friends previews their new album.







All this plus the latest releases and local gig guide - next Monday, 5th August from 9 - 11pm,
with a repeat on Saturday from 9 - 11pm.
And one for our Transatlantic listeners on Tuesday from 3 - 5am UK time.

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July's Mainly Folk 2013

In the first hour of We speak to
New York singer songwriter Woody Mann.
Woody was taught by Rev Gary Davis and in turn
given lessons to a range of players, including Paul Simon.


In part 2 - Chris While and Julie Matthews talk about the 20 years
they have been performing, including with the Albion Band,
their recent duo album and life on the road.






All this plus the latest releases and local gig guide - next Monday, 1st July from 9 - 11pm,
with a repeat on Saturday from 9 - 11pm.
And one for our Transatlantic listeners on Tuesday from 3 - 5am UK time.

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June's Mainly Folk 2013

the spotlight is on those who make the folk scene possible.

First up we talk to John Braithwaite, Director of The UK's oldest Festival, Sidmouth,
about what to expect in this year's week-long extravaganza.

Then it's the turn of Bob and Maggie Wood going behind
the scenes of our local BBC Folk Awards winning Ram Club,
plus of course some live songs from Bob.



Finally Dana and Susan Robinson are coming over here
on a tour that includes TwickFolk. They discuss and play
tracks from their latest album for your enjoyment.



All interviews can be listened to via Feedburner - see above.

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May's Mainly Folk 2013

plays host to two unique artists who are playing in our area this month.

In the first hour Bev talks to Sam Carter
whose last album attracted rave reviews.





In part two Clive Gregson shares highlights from
his career and we play tracks from his new CD.


All interviews can be listened to via Feedburner - see above.

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April's Mainly Folk 2013

we have three very different songwriters.


First up we speak to Karine Polwart about her latest album.



                 Then Nashville folk pop singer Josh Rouse tells us about his new CD prior to
                                     his UK tour in May.


And finally, we have a live session from Brooklyn's Rebecca Pronsky.




All interviews can be listened to via Feedburner - see above.

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March's Mainly Folk 2013

included a half hour special with Lori Lieberman.
Lori was the first person to record Killing Me Softly With His Song and she talks about this, her career and her latest album and tour.

As usual we featured a bunch of new releases, which this month
included Richard Thompson and Karine Polwart.



All interviews can be listened to via Feedburner - see above.
Copy of the March programme Playlist on pdf here.

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February's Mainly Folk 2013

had a strong transatlantic flavour. In the first half we talked to Geraldine Hollett of Canada's The Once, who are currently on tour.




In the second hour we featured American singer songwriter Caroline Herring (http://www.carolineherring.com/), and talk to her about her latest album. 



All interviews can be listened to via Feedburner - see above.
Copy of the February programme Playlist on pdf here.

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January's Mainly Folk 2013

In the first part of the show we talked to a very talented duo whose latest tour takes in some local dates.

Miranda Sykes is well known as the third member of Show of Hands. Rex Preston has a reputation as a fine, imaginative mandolin player on the British Bluegrass scene Together they form a rare fusion of double bass & mandolin making for one of the most exciting new pairings on the acoustic roots scene.

In the second hour of the show, there was an interview with some live and recorded music from local folksinger, Sue Graves, including tracks with Soiree and Voiceover.  (drawing by Alban Low)

All interviews can be listened to via Feedburner - see above.
Copy of the January programme Playlist on pdf here.

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December's Mainly Folk 2012

we talked to Steve Knightley,
lead singer and songwriter for the award-winning Show of Hands.





The second half of the show was a one-hour special with Benny Gallagher. Benny talked about
his  career  spanning  his  time  with  Apple  (The Beatles not Steve Jobs!),  McGuinness Flint,
Ronnie Lane, Art Garfunkel and of course, Gallagher and Lyle.

All interviews can be listened to via Feedburner - see above.
Copy of the December programme Playlist on pdf here.

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November's Mainly Folk 2012

had not just the latest CDs in Folk and Americana and our gig guide but also a whole lot more!

We had music and interviews with
American folksinger Gregory Alan Isakov...

                                                                 ... and Alt Country performer Mary Gauthier.



We also talked to Show of Hand's Phil Beer.
Show of Hands have sold out the Albert Hall four times.


All interviews can be listened to via Feedburner - see above.

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Our October Show 2012

had an unreleased track by Gerry Rafferty
and Rab Noakes, an interview and new music with Rab himself,
at Folk at G-Live, Guildford special.

                                                      Plus a competition for 2 tickets for Kate Rusby's
                                                                                        October concert at G-Live.



All interviews can be listened to via Feedburner - see above.
Copy of the October programme Playlist on pdf here.

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Our September show 2012

had 3 great interviews with music.
Andy Roberts on Plainsong's farewell tour, the band that features the familiar voice of Ian Matthews.
Steve Ashley is at Thames Ditton's Ram Club in a few weeks time. His songs have been covered by many performers - you will be able to hear why.
Finally, we talked to a real living legend, Peggy Seeger, on her groundbreaking new album.

All interviews can be listened to via Feedburner - see below.
Copy of the September programme Playlist on pdf here.

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Our August show 2012

featured an interview with legendary Canadian singer songwriter, Bruce Cockburn who is touring the UK the end of August and September in support of his latest release, "Small Source of Comfort".
Bruce has produced over 20 best selling albums and has travelled the world as a humanitarian activist. His honours include being one of the few living artists who have been represented on a Canada Post stamp. www.brucecockburn.com


We also spoke to Darrell Scott, who has played in the Transatlantic Sessions, Celtic Connections and more recently Robert Plant's Band of Joy. He is also an accomplished solo performer and talks about his latest album, "Long Ride Home". www.darrellscott.com

All interviews can be listened to via Feedburner - see below.
Copy of the August programme Playlist on pdf here.

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Our July show 2012

featured interviews and music from two of the leading families in folk. We talked to Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman and played tracks from their new album, "Hidden People".

In the second half of the programme James Fagan told us about the Fagan Family and their involvement in the Australian folk revival and his very successful partnership with Nancy Kerr.

All interviews can be listened to via Feedburner - see below.
Copy of the July programme Playlist on pdf here.

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Our June show 2012

featured a live session with the premier American guitarist and songwriter, Brooks Williams (www.brookswilliams.com).

We also had an interview with Nate Borofsky from Girlyman (www.girlyman.com) and played tracks from their latest album, "Supernova".

Last, but not least, we were talking to Lucy Wainwright Roche, (www.lucywainwrightroche.com) whose recent album "Lucy" does her family proud!

All interviews can be listened to via Feedburner - see below.

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You may want to check out the following gigs/venues –

Anchor Folk Club, Byfleet	Anvil Arts, Basingstoke	Bracknell Folk Club, Windlesham	King's Place, London N1 9AG
Cecil Sharp House	The Cellar Upstairs, Euston NW1	Dorking Folk Club	Grayshott Folk Club, Hindhead
Farnham Maltings	G-Live, Guildford	Green Note, Camden NW1
Half Moon, Putney SW15	The Music Institute, Guildford	The Ram Club at Thames Ditton	Reading Folk Club
River house Barn	Slaughtered Lamb, Clerkenwell EC1	Twickenham Folk Club

Listen Live on the first Monday of each month at 8.00pm