We are thrilled to reveal our programme for Spring 2026 as we continue to deliver on our promise to bring the very best in folk, roots and acoustic music to Downend. There's a mixture of returning favourites and new faces; and a mixture of genres as we bring you traditional folk, Americana, bluegrass and singer-songwriters.

We kick off the new year with a return from a duo that have become a bona-fide DF&R favourite. Americana to some, folk to others, THE BLACK FEATHERS headline on Friday 16 January. Sian Chandler’s soaring, dramatic, melodious but powerful voice is a perfect counterpoint to Ray Hughes’ piquant vocals and his sparkling and occasionally spicy guitar motifs. This is a duo who love what they play and play what they love with panache, humour, delight and rather a lot of commentary on the downside of being a human. Opening the evening will be HANNAH WOOD, a Bristol-based vocalist and songwriter who draws influences from folk, soul and pop to create dreamy, sometimes haunting, sounds. Melancholic vocals and introspective lyrics mirror and bring comfort to our shared struggles.

We continue with an evening of brilliant bluegrass. THE OFTEN HERD join us, all the way from Newcastle, to headline on Friday 20 February. This four-piece transcend the traditional boundaries of bluegrass music. 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. They will be supported by GREEN TREE, who encompass a range of both traditional and more contemporary bluegrass songs. The end result is a performance built on two passionate musicians whose styles and playing work perfectly in harmony.

With March’s concert falling in the same week as St Patrick’s Day, we wanted a little Irish flavour, so we’ll be joined by SHERBURN BARTLEY SANDERS on Friday 20 March. Chris Sherburn (concertina) and Denny Bartley (vocals and guitar) have brought their unique sound to audiences across the globe since 1993. In 2016, they joined forces with Emily Sanders (fiddle and vocals) blending vocal harmonies and strings to their unique sound.  Now, their soul-stirring songs, exhilarating tunes and quick-witted banter ensures that their performances are filled with warmth, laughter, and exceptional musicianship. We couldn’t quite manage an Irish support, but we’ve kept to the Celtic theme, with PAUL LLOYD NICHOLAS hopping over the border. Paul is proud to call himself a South Wales singer-songwriter who’s fallen on his feet and has a brilliant time playing to terrific audiences 

All three concerts will take place at CHRIST CHURCH DOWNEND as usual, and seating is unreserved. Tickets are £14 in advance (£16 on the door) and are available online HERE, and from MELANIE’S KITCHEN in Downend (cash only). There is also the option to buy a season ticket for all four concerts for £38, which saves a few pounds as well as booking fees. All tickets are non-refundable. There will be a full bar at all concerts, as well as a prize draw, all proceeds of which go towards booking our support artists. Doors open at 7.00pm for a 7.45pm start. 

We're really excited about this season, and we hope you will be too. Keep supporting live music, it’s becoming more and more important with every passing month! For further information, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or find us on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, BLUESKY, YOUTUBE or TIKTOK.

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