The Stowes

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Foot stomping 'ShantyTrad' from Cornwall! Unique Celtic folk band specialising in Cornish, Irish and Scottish music as well as shanties and songs of the sea.

Since their formation in 2012, The Stowes have built on a shared love of traditional Celtic music and unique personal experience to create a signature sound that is becoming rapidly recognisable across the Cornish and Celtic folk scene. Often described as difficult to pigeon hole, the group seamlessly transcends the boundaries between traditional genres and styles, with those most notable being Cornish music, Irish trad and nautical songs and shanties. Combine with that a subtle hint of bluegrass, a driving beat and a strong passion for Cornwall and Cornish history, and the result is an infectious energy that appeals to audiences of multiple generations and enthusiasts of almost every genre. The group consists of members Tom, Calum, Kevin and Jamie. Tom and Calum have both had successful careers at sea in the Merchant Navy, with Calum still actively serving. Kevin comes from an industrial background and so has a strong affinity to working class songs and Cornwalls rich industrial heritage, whilst Jamie’s proud Cornish and Irish ancestry has created a passionate and unique playing style. Throughout the band, a vast array of instruments can be played, however those featuring most regularly include the piano accordion, bouzouki, tenor banjo and 5 string banjo, each played in an individually precise and impressive manor. This acoustic approach is rooted deep in the DNA of The Stowes, however the group are not afraid to experiment and regularly merge a stomp box or bass guitar into the mix, providing substantial depth and drive. Strong lead vocals and layered harmonies integrate exquisitely to complete a powerful yet authentic listener experience. The groups latest and second studio album ‘Four Sheets to the Wind’ was released in the latter stages of 2020 and highlights a clear ambition to experiment and develop their sound, whilst at the same time remaining true to the Cornish and Celtic origins on which it was built. It is also the first time the group have published original material, which stands proudly alongside select cover songs and reworkings of traditional classics. The legendary Cornish folk writer and singer Harry Glasson says this of the album, ‘This new album by the Padstow based Stowes is certainly bright and bouncy and should please a wide variety of people. Songs from the traditional South Australia to the lovey local references in Rape of the Mackerel Shoals and I Miss my Cornish Home, with a couple of lively jigs thrown in. The musicianship is of the fine quality that we expect from these boys and the singing matches it perfectly. An album for every local Cornish Christmas stocking, certainly one for mine.’

What to expect

The Stowes play a stimulating mix of traditional folk, of mainly Cornish, Irish and Scottish origin, as well as rousing sea shanties with scintillating, foot stomping instrumental arrangements, that will be sure to keep you dancing and singing through the night! With a full-bodied combination of Piano Accordion, Bouzouki, 5 string banjo and Stomp Box, The Stowes are on a mission to re-invent Cornish Celtic music and present it to the world. Check out the latest album on Spotify!

FAQ

Q: How long does setup take? A: We allow 1 hour but it is often quicker than this.
Q: What are your space and power requirements? A: We require a space of approximately 4m x 3m and 1 x 220v power socket for our PA system and various electrical items.
Q: Do you take requests? A: We like to try and take requests where we can and we may be able to learn something in advance for you providing it is in keeping with our instruments and overall sound.

Foot stomping 'ShantyTrad' from Cornwall! Unique Celtic folk band specialising in Cornish, Irish and Scottish music as well as shanties and songs of the sea.

Q: How long does setup take?

The Stowes recently played at our wedding and they were absolutely brilliant. We booked them to play an afternoon slot to prevent the afternoon lull often associated with weddings. From the moment they started people were tapping their feet and dancing along within minutes. Everybody loved them and their music. They were very professional and very friendly and approachable. From the moment we first contacted them, they were always great to communicate with, which meant we had full trust in them for the day. We are just looking for an excuse to book them for another event! We can’t wait to see them again. A brilliant band all round!

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Foot stomping 'ShantyTrad' from Cornwall! Unique Celtic folk band specialising in Cornish, Irish and Scottish music as well as shanties and songs of the sea. View More

Traditional, Folk, irish & Ceilidh Musicians based in Cornwall

Book directly with Tom Willis member since 05/02/2019

Book directly with Tom Willis member since 05/02/2019

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Brilliant Band!

Great performance

Fantastic performance

Delightful!

Highly recommended!

Fantastic!

Amazing performance!

Great Band!!

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