Bonfire Radicals in Concert

One of the most exciting and eclectic groups on the folk/ world scene, the Bonfire Radicals translate a wide variety of influences – from gorgeous medieval and Celtic folk to dynamic eastern European jazz-swing to punchy world-beats, and all points in between – into a distinctive and quite staggeringly special sound. Armed with emotive vocals, richly melodic classical recorders and woodwind, soaring fiddle and a tight, rocking rhythm section, and going from pyrotechnic folk-rock to delicate unaccompanied singing, theirs is a high-spirited, at times gloriously chaotic, live stage show. _________________________________________________________________

Michelle Holloway: recorders, vocals Sarah Farmer: violin, vocals Katie Stevens: clarinets, kaval, vocals Shankara Andy Bole: eclectic 12-string guitar Trevor Lines: bass guitar, double bass Ilias Lintzos: drums, vocals

Birmingham-based Bonfire Radicals have emerged from the folk/ world scene with a fresh musical approach and a host of engaging traditional and original material. Probably unlike anything you’ve heard before, they draw on many eclectic influences for their sound – a fusion of medieval melodies, jazz-tinged swing, folk-rock, klezmer and all points in between – and go from pyrotechnic folk-rock to delicate unaccompanied singing. Plentifully melodic and richly rhythmic, they weave together emotive vocals and free-ranging classical recorder, clarinet and fiddle over a pulsating rhythm mix of guitar, bass and drums. Known for their highly spirited stage presence, the Bonfire Radicals‘ own enthusiasm for their music is undeniable.

Nominated for the Birmingham Music Awards 2019 ‘Best Folk/ Country Act’. ‘Quite staggeringly special. On this evidence, Bonfire Radicals are quite a discovery – grab the chance to go see them live.’ Fatea Magazine ★★★★ ‘Raucous and eclectic, sheer merriment in a gorgeous set of ideas and influences, guaranteed to leave you smiling from ear to ear.’ Songlines Magazine

★★★★ ‘Raucous and eclectic, sheer merriment in a gorgeous set of ideas and influences, guaranteed to leave you smiling from ear to ear.’ Songlines Magazine

View performer’s website (in new window)