The Often Herd
Friday 18th August 2023
Bluegrass band The Often Herd transcend the traditional boundaries of the genre. Although they might resemble an American string band, complete with driving energy, tight vocal harmonies and dazzling instrumental interplay, their vibrant, transatlantic sound is deeply coloured by their surroundings; the striking natural and industrial landscapes of Northern England. This unique approach won them the title of ‘Best European Bluegrass Band 2018′ at the prestigious La Roche Bluegrass Festival in France.
Rupert Hughes (guitar) and Evan Davies (mandolin), write songs steeped in personal experience whilst drawing from a wide pool of influences ranging from old-time to psychedelia. American-born fiddler Niles Krieger and jazz bassist Sam Quintana add fiery instrumental skills to the mix, launching the band’s arrangements into the stratosphere. Together, their sound is both boldly contemporary and soothingly familiar, taking time-honoured traditions to new places with a fresh perspective.
The band have an impressive number of festivals booked this Summer and have previously showcased at IBMA Bluegrass Ramble and Americana Music Week, Hackney. They released their debut album ‘Where The Big Lamp Shines’ in June 2022, recorded with producer Tom Moore (Slow Worm Records, Moore, Moss, Rutter).
“A study in virtuosity from a supremely talented group of musicians.” – NARC
“Traditional, inventive, tight and sharp… for those who think they don’t like bluegrass this could be the point they change their minds.” – FolkWords
