Gadarene
Gadarene blend obscure traditional English tunes and virtuoso acoustic musicians, combining them with funky beats and loads of energy. Gadarene create a sophisticated and exciting sound, drawing on many diverse musical influences and making a performance that is all their own.
The band’s repertoire focuses on unusual and compelling tunes, carefully researched from eighteenth and nineteenth century manuscripts. Gadarene attack these glorious tunes with the raw energy and verve often associated with the cream of traditional dance musicians.
Nick Wyke is well known for his groundbreaking explorations of traditional fiddle music with Becki Driscoll, and an experienced performer in many folk and rock bands.
Laurel Swift is best known as a folk arts activist with Shooting Roots and Morris Offspring and for her fiddle playing with The Gloworms. She brings a rich range of textures to Gadarene with her double bass.
Si Paull is the newest member of the band, bringing a refreshing and unique dynamic to the sound. Si has played in many rock bands and is currently playing with the singer-songwriter Ella Edmundson and Paul Besselle (as Slipdown Dog).
Matt Norman, with his mesmerising gentle style and driving delivery, is a champion of the mandolin in current English folk. Matt is gaining a well-deserved reputation for his virtuosity and eclectic performance.
The live show includes effects pedals, loops and step dancing! Matt is a prize-winning Dartmoor Step Dancer, while Laurel studies Pat Tracey’s style of East Lancashire clog dance, including the rare “heel and toe” dances.
Gadarene have been featured on Radio 4 by Julian May and their performances to date have included Glastonbury Festival, Sidmouth Folk Festival, The Bath Fringe Festival and The Magpie’s Nest Folk Club, London. Gadarene have always been well received whether audiences were seated, standing or bopping wildly!
