7:30, Friday 27th September
Bella Gaffney, Henry Parker, Judith Haswell&Trish McLean
Bella Gaffney
Bella Gaffney (of The Magpies) is a folk troubadour whose music seamlessly weaves together original compositions and traditional tunes from both British folk and Americana traditions. Winner of the prestigious 2016 Celtic Connections Danny Kyle Award, Bella is celebrated for her folk-inspired songwriting and unique arrangements of traditional pieces.
In 2023, Bella released her latest album, 'Reflections,' which beautifully captures the essence of connections formed during the lockdown period. Her singles, 'Fair and Tender Ladies' and 'Blood in the Earth,' featuring duets with Sam Kelly and Leesa Gentz (Hussy Hicks), received widespread acclaim and BBC radio airplay.
Apart from her solo endeavors, Bella is a vital member of the folk band The Magpies, lauded as 'effervescent' by The Sunday Times. The Magpies have garnered national and international recognition, including a live session on BBC Radio 2 and hosting an annual sold-out festival.
Bella's live performances are a captivating journey through folk storytelling, leaving audiences with earworm melodies, foot-tapping rhythms, and smiles from her off-beat humor. Her work has been praised by critics and fellow musicians alike, with Americana UK calling her album "a compelling collection" and Mike Harding hailing her as a "great singer, great guitarist, and really interesting songwriter." The Daily Mail describes The Magpies music as "folk with finesse."
Henry Parker
Henry Parker's contemporary take on folk, which he explores via thoughtful yet deeply accomplished guitar playing, unfurls and moves much like the landscape itself – mirroring the unpredictable, yet beautifully flowing, rolling hills and valleys of his native county of West Yorkshire.
Parker’s musical roots go back to a self appointed upbringing in prog-rock and metal. However, enthralled at the age of 20 by the ethereal playing of Bert Jansch and Nick Drake, finger-picking and open tunings rapidly became the essence of his sound. The result is a strain of informed, progressive folk music found nowhere else.
Henry has recorded 2 albums: the eco-conscious ‘Silent Spring’ (2019) and ‘Lammas Fair’ (2021), bringing him to the forefront of the progressive folk music world. In 2023 he curated and recorded on behalf of the American label Tompkins Square Records, bringing together a tribute album to Michael Chapman, one of his most important musical influences.
“His relaxed vocals and songwriting are as warm and open as his tunings” 8/10 Uncut “What Parker does so effectively is to blend ancient with early-70’s and modern styles” Mojo ★★★★
“Original material and traditional songs create an immersive and mellifluous world in which both the peace and isolation of nature are unfurled evoked through subtle arrangements” Prog Magazine
“Focussing on the seasons is an eternal feature of English folk music and the tradition is well tended here.” - Shindig! ★★★★
Judith Haswell & Trish McLean
From the land of Chris Rea, Bob Mortimer, The Young Uns and Vin Garbutt, to name but a few......Judith & Trish have been entertaining folk clubs in the North East for many years with their songs. They sing a mix of self penned and covers, contemporary and traditional, and with their harmonies and warm humour, they bring delight to their audiences wherever they go.
YouTube 'The Eyemouth Fishing Disaster'
7:30, Friday 27th September
The Wetherby Sports Association, Wetherby, LS22 5FN
Watch the website for more terrific line-ups...
Friday 6th September - Straw Men, Cobalt Tales, Gerry Ffrench
Friday 27th September - Bella Gaffney, Henry Parker, Judith Haswell & Trish McLean
Friday 18th October - Louise Rogan, Reuben & The Bridge, Anna Howells
Friday 15th November - Duncan McFarlane Band, Hazjak, Pelican Babies
Tuesday 10th December - Merry Hell, Plum Hall (The Engine Shed)
In 2025, George Boomsma, White Sail, Chechelele, Gaelforce, Alistair Russell, Gary Stewart's Graceland, Edwina Hayes, Emily Slade, Katie Spencer, Iona Lane, Winter Wilson, Tom Bliss, Den Miller & Charlie Barker (MS/MND Charity night)