Announced back in June were our own favourite local band Albi and the Wolves! Wellington local Rob Joass of the Hardcore Troubadours and Hobnail. Also announced were foreign band The ULC Trio, featuring two Danes and an Irishman. They combine traditional 18th century Danish dance music with jazz influenced backing and songs from the Irish tradition.
In July they announced their UK guest, Kirsty Bromley. Kirsty is a young contemporary folk singer based in Sheffield who draws upon a wide range of traditional music. Her debut album ‘Time Ashore’ features original songs as well as carefully curated folk gems. Wellington group the Kelburn Viaduct Municipal Ensemble Jug Band have been added to the bill. Blues based, but retaining the texture and traditions of a trad jug band, the KVMEJB came together just a year ago. From slightly further afield are The Muggeridge Family. Janet, Cindy and Steve Muggeridge started playing together more years ago than any of them care to remember in a band in London.
In the latest update they announced three more acts: Iconic members of the Australian folk scene, Fred Smith and Liz Frencham have been added, the duo has been described as delicious, emotionally intelligent and entrancing folk music for the 21st century. Our local bluegrass extravaganza band the Pipi Pickers are making the trip down, after wowing everyone at the Auckland Folk Festival with their very own Pipi Pickers tent. Finally Rosy Tin Teacaddy are the local band from Wellington. These modern-day story tellers have been described as kiwi-gothic and folktronica. Expect digital dustings, found-sound percussion and mind-altering sonic layers entwined into the familiar close-knit vocal harmonies and traditional folk leanings of previous outings.
Tickets for the festival will be on sale from mid-August, but mark your diaries now; 23-26 October = Wellyfest.
