unicorn magazine issue 133

appy New Year! We hope you all had a fantastic Festive Season and your ‘folk batteries’ are well and truly recharged!

2015 was a busy year of both activity & change for us here at Unicorn, and it looks like 2016 is going to be no different... One aspect that is definitely going to change (and we would love both your input and help on this) is the constant bugbear of distribution of Unicorn Magazine. Our current system is straining to keep up with demand, and regrettably we therefore need to look at other options. We are printing more copies of magazines, they are increasing in number of pages (and hence weight), and our geographical range and locations have similarly increased. Petrol and postage prices are now prohibitively high, and the core Unicorn team has dropped from three members to now only two. Our existing team of volunteer distributors who help us get the magazine out to the far reaches of our counties are still doing a marvellous job, but even they are groaning under the strain!

We must therefore looking at new options for getting Unicorn into the hands of its readers.

An obvious option is the ability to obtain the magazine online. It’s available from five easy to access sources, and if you join our mailing list we’ll tell you as soon as each new issue is available. Also, unlike the printed copy which you may receive some time after the publication date, the online version is often available two weeks before the magazine has even gone to press!

For those who still need hard copies we are looking at a range of ‘hub’ options, wherein bulk consignments of the magazine may be left at key locations (clubs, libraries etc) from where you can collect them when convenient.

Another alternative is to further enrol the help of your regular club visitors, who may be able to help collect them from us directly and take them to your club / venue...

We’d love to hear you thoughts on all this, and if we have overlooked an obvious solution?

As ever, we hope to see you round the clubs!

Simon & Clive

Editorial 1

Contents 1

Chatterbox 5

Club Profile: Forest Folk & Roots 7

CD Review: Oka Vanga / 9 Dave Ellis & Boo Howard

Interview: Pete Morton 10

Folk Bloke 13

Sessions 14

Shall We Dance? 16

Review: Watford FC Song Competition 18

Editorial Staff:

Simon Bailes07807 535110unicornmagazine @hotmail.co.uk

Clive Batkin07771 [email protected]

Contact address:

10 Chapel Street, Dunton, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, SG18 8RW

Printed by KJB UK Ltd

Unicorn Diary 19 – 21

Club Index 22

Song: Full Moon Céilidh 26

Advertiser Information 27

The Morris Page 32

Gig Review: Willy Porter 35 @ The Green Note

Interview: Charles Foskett 37

Event Review: The Greenwich Early 38 Music Festival

Broadside by Long Lankin 40

1UniCorn MagazinE: iSSUE 133

ViSit oUr wEbSitE at www.UniCornMagazinE.org

WWW.UNICORNMAGAzINE.ORG

© Unicorn Magazine 2016CB1277 • January 2016

Front cover photo by Al Rogers (www.alanrogersimages.co.uk)

Instrument In Peril #6: “Caution! Surfaces may be hot...”

Tin whistle kindly loaned by Chris Sadler

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2 UniCorn MagazinE: iSSUE 133PLEASE MENTION UNICORN MAGAzINE WHEN REPLYING TO ADS

Unicorn news: Oops! We realise that on the last couple of covers we forgot to credit some lovely people who bravely loaned us their instruments to ‘put in peril’ – the concertina on the cover of Issue 131 from Chris Sadler, and the trumpet on 132 from Alan & Amanda Andrews! Apologies and many thanks (in equal measure) to you all!

UM Mailing List: Our email mailing list has been holding steady now at around the 350-member mark. This figure is less than 10% of the numbers of magazines we distribute, and far less when the number of online downloads / reads is factored in. Do please join the mailing list therefore – we promise not to bombard you, but it’s a really useful way of us letting you know of last minute developments, deadlines etc!

London Barndance venue changes next year: The Kennedy Hall at Cecil Sharp House is due for a major refurbishment early in 2016, so we had to find a new venue for the January to April dances. After a lot of research we have chosen Haverstock School as our temporary home. Haverstock has several large new halls and is about 10 minutes > walk from Cecil Sharp house, being opposite Chalk Farm tube station and the Roundhouse. There is no cafe or bar at the school, but you are welcome to bring your own refreshments as long as you clear away the debris after eating. See www.barndance.org for more details. We expect to be back in the Kennedy Hall in May. EFDSS has not yet confirmed our dates later in the year, but we hope to get this sorted out with the new Dance Director soon.

Folkstock: Coming up soon is the eagerly awaited second album from Kelly Oliver. Her debut gained a four star review from The Telegraph and tracks from Kelly’s sophomore album (Bedlam) have already found favour with both the BBC Radio 2 Folk Show and Bob Harris’ Radio 2 Sunday show, BBC 6 Music, Folk Radio UK, The Telegraph and the Sunday Times. The album launch is on March 6th at Hitchin Folk Club as part of Kelly’s album tour during the first three months of the year. This is Kelly’s first headline in the Sun Hotel’s Ballroom and Said the Maiden, also on Folkstock Records, will be providing an enchanting opening slot.

New Roots 2016: The call is out to young musicians under the age of 25 who sing or play

traditionally based music to enter New Roots 2016. There are two categories, under 18 and 18–24.

The judges have now been finalised: between them, Valmai Goodyear, Andy Stafford, Bryony Griffiths and James Findlay represent a wide spectrum of insights into the folk scene. Their task will be to listen to the entries and select the performers who will take part in the final on Sunday April 10 at Trestle Arts Base in St Albans. On the day they will give constructive feedback to performers. There is no overall winner and the aim is to match the performers to opportunities at folk festivals, clubs and other events which are offered to New Roots finalists.

To enter, complete the entry form on the web site and send it with a CD with up to 15 minutes of their music to Alison Macfarlane, 40 Warwick Road, St Albans, Herts AL1 4DL, or electronically are asked via Andy Brown at [email protected] Closing date is 31 January 2016. Further information from www.new-roots.org.uk, which also has a form for organisers who wish to offer performance opportunities. Further details: [email protected] or ring 01727 852111.

REDBOURN FOLK www.redbournfolkclub.org.uk

Thursdays 8pm

Jan.7th Open Stage featuring Bearwood Jan.14th Pete Morton plus floor spots Jan.28th Kara plus floor spots Feb.11th Daniel Nestlerode with Paul Ballantyne plus floor spots Feb.25th The James Brothers plus floor spots Mar.3rd Hannah Sanders plus floor spots Mar.17th Gary Smith plus floor spots Mar.31st Black Scarr plus floor spots

other dates are Open Stage Hollybush, Church End

Redbourn

The Best of Folk, Roots and Acoustic Music

WHAT’S COMING UP:

8th Jan Singaround - £4

15th Jan Chris Flegg -£6

22nd Jan Singaround -£4

29th Jan Spotlight Singaround with Dudley Edmunds- £4

5th Feb Ringlefinch-£6

12th Feb Spotlight Singaround Theme Night –“Love” featuring our 2015 Song Competition Winner- £4

19th Feb Ritz & Wesson – singer/songwriters + band - £7

26th Feb Singaround- £4

4th March Spotlight Singaround with Richard Scruton and Roj Lewis- £4

11th March Polly Morris - £8

18th March Themed Singaround – Easter/Ireland-£4

25th March Closed (Good Friday)

Contact us via Facebook

and email: [email protected] or visit us at http://folkatthepumphouse.webs.com

54 WWW.UNICORNMAGAzINE.ORGUniCorn MagazinE: iSSUE 133UniCorn MagazinE: iSSUE 133PLEASE MENTION UNICORN MAGAzINE WHEN REPLYING TO ADS

Forest Folk and Roots launched in May last year by

Trevor Dove, the co-organiser of Cranfield ‘s local music festival “Cranfest”. The aim is simple, to provide an opportunity to see top quality, nationally renowned artists on the folk / roots scene

alongside up and coming local artists in the intimate setting of the College Arms Bar in Cranfield.

The monthly gigs are on a Friday – usually in the middle of the month – doors open at 7:30pm with live music starting around 8:00pm, but you can of course sample the real ales in the bar and even treat yourself to a Chinese meal at the resident restaurant Uncle LIms!

The club’s launch night featured Fred’s House supported by Tony Hill from Milton Keynes. Since then acts as diverse as Danni Nicholls, The Gerry Colvin Band, Hattie Briggs, folk rockers Under a Banner and Cambridgeshire’s up and coming indie folksters Mortal Tides have all graced the stage… It’s a real blend of styles.

Visit our website for more details and give us a try – Cranfield is located between Bedford and Milton Keynes near both J13 and J14 of the M1.

Music type:A real variety – primarily contemporary folk / roots, acoustic, blues and americana.

Meets:Monthly on a Friday, usually in the middle of the month.

admission charge:Usually £10 and £5 for student.

guests:Major established acts on the folk/roots circuit with supports from up and coming local support acts.

Venue name:The College Arms Bar

Venue address:College Road, Cranfield, Bedfordshire MK43 0SR

Parking:On and off-street parking adjacent plus off-street parking nearby on the Cranfield University Campus.

Club contact:Trevor Dove• [email protected] • www.forestfolkandroots.weebly.com

Enquiries to: [email protected] Or call Tim and Lesley Brooks on 01923 264536

advance reservation recommended

Abbots Langley Winter Acoustic Concertshttp://www.oldtimetim.com/alwac.htm

* Ticket includes tea or coffee & cake in the interval

Afternoon of Sunday 14th February 2016 at 3pm - £12.00*

Máire Ní Chathasaigh & Chris Newman

Afternoon of Sunday 13th March 2016 at 3pm - £12.00*

Alice and David Wylde

Sparrow Violins

A folkie Luthier for folkies

Set-Ups and Repairs for Fiddles, Violas, Cellos and Hardanger Fiddles.

Fiddles and Hardangers made to commission. Hand made contemporary Fiddles for sale.

Tim J. Sparrow

St.Neots, Cambridgeshire (Workshop open by appointment)

Tel: 07704 836 170 Email: [email protected] www.sparrow-violins.co.uk www.facebook.com/SparrowViolins

6 7PLEASE MENTION UNICORN MAGAzINE WHEN REPLYING TO ADS WWW.UNICORNMAGAzINE.ORGUniCorn MagazinE: iSSUE 133 UniCorn MagazinE: iSSUE 133

Oka Vanga“Tales of Eyam”

Tales of Eyam is the second CD from Hertford-based

duo Oka Vanga (Angela Meyer & William Cox). We reviewed

their first CD Pilgrim in Issue 130 and gave it a pretty hearty thumbs up!

This five track album from the band is a very different stylistic offering to the last. Not only is it a ‘concept’ EP, it also features vocals from Angela, and the services of another musician in the form of cello player Isobel Smith. The CD tells the story of the Derbyshire hamlet of Eyam, centering on the misfortunes that fell a young betrothed couple there during the outbreak of plague in 1665 – 1666. The thought behind the EP was inspired by a 2011 road trip through Derbyshire, where both the beauty of the tiny hamlet of Eyam and the tragic story of love and loss that it had to tell moved the duo to write songs dedicated to their memory.”

All the usual Oka Vanga traits are there on this record – great recording quality, interesting and accomplished guitar playing and listenable arrangements abound – but with the added appeal of ‘ear-wormy’ song melodies and moving lyrics The four excellent songs on the EP are matched by the instrumental piece ‘Out of the Shadows’, which serves as a nice contrast and a fitting close to the package as a whole .

The CD design and packaging is again excellent, with great use of illustrations and textures, lyrics and helpful accompanying notes.

More information and the CD itself can be obtained from the Oka Vanga website (www. www.okavanga.com), or the dedicated Tales of Eyam site here: www.talesofeyam.co.uk. Thoroughly recommended!

Clive Batkin

Dave Ellis & Boo Howard“Facebook Friend”

Dave and Boo have been playing together since

the late 1970’s in a number of incarnations, backing Liz Simcock and, since the late 1990’s performing regularly as a duo at folk clubs and festivals across the UK.

Having recorded a number of albums together over the last thirty years, Facebook Friend is their most recent release. It is a creation that they should be proud of and that you should make every effort to get a copy of.

The thirteen tracks are all written and produced by Dave and Boo and they cover a range of styles from the mandolin rich We Go Round and Two Left Feet to the blues and rock sound of Nothing In Between and Facebook Friend via the rather plaintiff Who Will Tie and the excellent song of belonging, Home Again.

As I listened to the album I was wondering why it sounded familiar and I think I put it down to two individual songs; Reasons For The Rhymes and Shelter. The former reminds of the style of Ralph McTell while the latter reminds me of the Michelle Shocked albums I listened to as a student. Perhaps it was a touch of nostalgia for my younger days, but having hooked me with these two tracks, when I listened to the album again it was like playing one of my favourite LPs. It produced a feeling of warmth and contentment and the more I listened to it the better the feeling got.

While the whole album is great, I think that my favourite tracks are Victor Coyle, the biography of a man that owned a mandolin made in 1912, very similar to the one that Dave plays, and The Last Refrain, a song dedicated to Dave’s sister.

Simon Bailes

Ahuge thank you to everyone out there who sends us their CDs for review and comment. We

constantly get sent a good number and are sorry to have such limited space in each issue for reviewing them. To help in that regard, we have a (relatively)

strict policy for which CDs we review. As with most areas of the magazine, we tend to only feature recordings made by artists living in, working in or having a significant link with our covering area. When you send in CDs, it would therefore help us greatly if you could outline how your offering fits within our criteria.

BBaallddoocckk && LLeettcchhwwoorrtthh BBlluueess,, FFoollkk && RRoooottss 88..3300ppmm WWeeddnneessddaayyss aaccccoommppaanniieedd uunnddeerr 1166’’ss ffrreeee

SSeeee oouurr wweebbssiittee wwwwww..mmaaddnnaannnnyy ffoorr ddeettaaiilleedd iinnffoorrmmaattiioonn

Jan 13 Wildfires USA £6/7/8 h�p://thewildfires.bandcamp.com

The Wildfires music has been described as "Simon & Garfunkel meets Emmylou Harris round at Dolly Parton's house where Paul Weller's trying to break in.”

Jan 20 Tentrees & Haldane** Canada £8/9/10 www.tentrees.ca A blend of folk, roots and blues earning him a Western Canadian Music Award Album of the Year nomina�on.

Jan 27 Dave Kelly £10/£12/15 www.thebluesband.net Dave jammed with Muddy Waters; he became a friend to Howlin' Wolf and John Lee Hooker, who both felt the benefit of Dave's playing in their touring bands. If there is such a thing as a Bri�sh 'blues pedigree', then Dave Kelly's sets the standard. Kelly is a blues cra�sman who has served his �me with the best.

Feb 03 Jenny Ri�er Band** Canada £9/10/12 www.jennyri�ermusic.caA seriously accomplished instrumentalist with clear sweet vocals.

"Indie-Americana to give Li�le Red Riding Hood the ji�ers" - Songlines Magazine

Feb 10 Open Floor with M/C Phil Hewi� Performers £2 audience £3 Feb 17 Feature Night : with two acts £5

Stella Hensley & Chris Newman www.chrisnewmangrooves.co.uk Chris Lord & her Blues express www.chrislord.org.uk

Feb 24 Open Floor with M/C Chris Sissons Performers £2 audience £3

Mar 02 North Sea Gas £8/9/10 h�p://nsg.gplrank.info One of Scotland's most popular folk bands; mul�-instrumentalists with great vocals and tremendous three part harmonies. Gold and Silver disc awards from the Sco�sh Music Industry Associa�on and they regularly have sell out shows at the Edinburgh Fes�val Fringe!!

Mar 09 Feature Night : with two acts £5 Barry Goodman - www.barrygoodmanfolk.co.uk Phil Hewi� - tradi�onal & contemporary song

Mar 16 Daniel Nestlerode £8/9/10 www.nestlerode.co.uk A fine voice, superb mandolin playing and a charming stage presence. Tradi�onal, contemporary and self-penned folk. Mar 23 Open floor with M/C Brian Burke Performers £2 audience £3 Mar 30 Feature : with two acts £5

Kris Hughes h�p://www.super�nyrecords.com/mgtr Bernard Hoskin www.bernardhoskin.com

The Orange Tree, Norton Rd, Baldock, SG7 5AW www.madnanny.co.uk 01767 683583 [email protected]

** indicates underwri�en for financial assistance from the Arts Council for North Her�ordshire.

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thanks for meeting with me Pete - i know you’ve got a busy day ahead of you...

I’m living an itinerant life stye at the moment, so there’s a lot of driving and travelling in general. I was in London yesterday, Redbourn last night, here now, I’m driving to Leicestershire in a bit, then back down to Huntingdon for a meeting and then back to Luton airport to get to The Netherlands for tomorrow. Busy isn’t the word!

and a lot of this frenetic activity is in support of the new album, the Land of time (FECD269), an album that features your normal blend of folk-influenced tunes, social commentary and political pieces, as well as musings on being a father.

Yup. This is my second album on Fellside Records, my 14th album in total! Fellside have been great to work with and I’m really happy with the way the record has come out.

I’ve also got another album coming out soon (Game of Life, due in January 2016), a sort of compilation album of some of my most requested material, but with different, full-band, arrangements. My mates Full House (from Chester) play with me on it and again I really love the way it sounds. They are great players and always allow enough space for the vocals to come across without being drowned out. I spend a lot of time and thought getting my lyrics just right so I’ve always slightly shied away from

traditional band line ups with loud drums etc – we just use a bit of cajon on the new album but it still sounds really full and complete.

You’ve always played a lot of gigs in ‘our’ area, as well as more northerly venues, but you also seem to spend a lot of time abroad now?

I’ve played gigs in clubs such as Redbourn, Hitchin and lots of venues in East Herts for years, ever since I started – all those places have been really good to me. I do a lot of work in The Netherlands now which is a scene I really enjoy. Also (amazingly), it can be as cheap to fly to Holland as it is to get a train up North these days so the economics of it work out well too!

Finally, you’ve been staying in the area for much of this year – have you picked up a copy of the new-look Unicorn whilst here, by any chance?

Sure! I really like the look and feel of it and what you guys have done to keep it going. I think you should start invading other areas and counties to create a huge folk empire, to be honest!

we may well do that! Many thanks for your time, Pete!

More details of all Pete’s activities can be found on his website (www.petemorton.com) or from the Fellside website (www.fellside.com).

Clive Batkin

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we have long been huge fans of Leicester-based folk singer /

songwriter Pete Morton here at Unicorn, so when we heard that he was being an ‘honorary’ beds / Herts resident for a large chunks of this year, Clive took the opportunity to grab him for an interview in a posh coffee shop in Harpenden!

Here is the result of all that caffeine and chat...

BTW, Pete is playing the Maltings Arts Centre,

St Albans on February 26th 2016 – see the ad on page 17.

Wednesday 13th JanuarySunjay

£11 (£10 advance)

Wednesday 17th FebruaryKeith Donnelly

£11 (£10 advance)

Wednesday 16th MarchJim Moray£11 (£10 advance)

Old Dispensary, 13 St Mary’s St., ElyCB7 4ER

01353 740999/664706www.elyfolkclub.co.uk

Ely Folk Clubpresents

Wed 20 Jan The Rails

Thu 21 Jan Martyn Joseph

Sun 24 Jan Vieux Farka Touré [mali]

Thu 11 Feb Will Robert

Wed 17 Feb YORKSTON / THORNE / KHAN

Thu 18 FebMICHAEL MCGOLDRICK, JOHN MCCUSKER & JOHN DOYLE

Tue 23 Feb Will Varley

Sat 27 Feb Otava yo [Russia]

Mon 07 Mar Kathryn Roberts & sean lakeman

Sun 13 Mar Megson family folk show

Mon 14 Mar Blazin’ fiddles

Sat 02 apr Bella hardy

Sat 16 apr PEROTÁ CHINGÓ [ARGENTINA]

Tue 19 Apr TREACHEROUS ORCHESTRA

Thu 21 apr Criolo [brazil]

Tue 26 apr John mccusker

Thu 28 apr HOLY MOLY & THE CRACKERS

Cambridge junction, clifton way, Cambridge cb1 7gxJunction.co.uk | 01223 511 511

Cambridge Junction

STACEY BANJOS

REPAIRS SET-UPS & RESTORATION TO:

ACOUSTIC GUITARS

ELECTRIC GUITARS

CLASSICAL GUITARS

BANJOS & MANDOLINS

BANJOS BUILT TO ORDER

DAVE STACEY19 FIELD LANELETCHWORTHHERTS SG6 3LF01462 683074

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MY

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UM2 Quarter Page (portrait) STACEY BANJOS 2.pdf 24/4/13 11:32:08

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SUnDaY LUnCHtiMES STONY STRATFORD • Vaults Bar (Weekly): Jane Armour, 01908 566407

SUnDaY EVEningS WESTON TURVILLE • The Chandos (3rd): Roger Dorman, 01296 613742

MILTON KEYNES • see www.mksessions.blogspot.com (Weekly)

MILTON KEYNES • New Bradwell Sports Club, New Bradwell (1st): Patsy, 07932 157610

ST ALBANS • Farmers Boy, London Rd (1st): Nick, 020 8953 5231

ST ALBANS • Lower Red Lion, Fishpool Street (2nd): Pub

LEIGHTON BUzzARD • The Swan, Northall (1st)

MonDaY EVEningS ASHWELL • Rose & Crown (1st): Ian Chandler, 01462 743091

CHATTERIS • Chatteris Folk Club, Honest John, 24a South Park St, PE16 6AR (3rd), Acoustic music and song: Keith Cheale, 02354 652868

SOHAM • Cherry Tree, Fordham Rd (3rd): Claire White, 01353 720550

STEVENAGE • Our Mutual Friend (2nd): Gary Moyle, 07960 953778

TOTTERNHOE • Old Farm Inn (8.30pm, weekly): Contact, 01582 661294 (pub)

tUESDaY EVEningS ABINGTON PIGOTTS • Village Hall, SG8 0SH (8-10.30pm, 3rd, admission £2 per person): George Norris 01763 853062

DUNSTABLE • Globe, Winfield St (Weekly): Maureen, 01582 512300

DUNTON • March Hare, Dunton, nr Biggleswade (1st): John Pritchett, 01767 448093 (pub)

GT WILBRAHAM • Memorial Hall Social Club (3rd): Dave, 01440 783280

HISTON • Boot, Histon, nr Cambridge (1st): Dave Benford, 01223 880553

MARCH • Georges Folk Club, 61 High Street, PE15 9JJ (1st), Acoustic music and song: Mark Gibson, 01354 652868

RICKMANSWORTH • Conservative Club, Bury Lane (2nd): Michael, 01923 770425

ST ALBANS • King Harry, King Harry Lane (1st, songs & tunes): Jenny, 01582 793164

TRING • Kings Arms, (8.30, 1st, trad Irish songs & tunes, led by Chan Reid/fiddle, John Devine/pipes, Neil Stanton/guitar): Rob Muirhead (landlord), 01442 823318

WOOTTON (Beds) • The Cock MK43 9JT (8pm, broad acoustic & folk): Mike Carter Jones 01234 768555 Pub (Karen) 01234 930034

wEDnESDaY EVEningS BARTON-LE-CLAY • Waggon & Horses (8.30pm, fortnightly): Ann 01582 560815

BENINGTON (Stevenage) • The Bell (1st): Kit Burgess 01438 869435

CAMBRIDGE • Six Bells, Covent Garden (8.30pm, 2nd, Bluegrass & Old Time): Jim, 07803 158084

ELY • Kings Arms, St Marys St (last): Liam, [email protected], 07905 044932

MARCH • March Folk Club, Royal British Legion Club, Rookswood, 27 West End, PE15 8DP (3rd), Acoustic music and song: Keith Cheale, 02354 652868

MOGGERHANGER • Moggerhanger Village Hall (7.30pm, 1st): Chris, 01767 640 242

RADLETT • Cat & Fiddle, Cobden Hill, WD7 7JR (8pm, 2nd): Nick, 020 8207 3057

ST ALBANS • White Swan, Dagnall St (8.30pm, weekly, mainly music): Rick Payman, 01727 852976

TEBWORTH • Queens Head, LU7 9QB (Every 4th Wednesday): Richard Chatterley, 07790 023220

TOWERSEY • Village Hall (7.30 for 8, 3rd): Andrew Leleux, 01296 615160

WELHAM GREEN • North Mymms Social Club, AL9 7PQ (2nd): Alan Francis, 07774 859758

LITTLE WYMONDLEY • The Bucks Head, Stevenage Road (1st): Kerry 07877 930201

tHUrSDaY EVEningS CROXLEY GREEN • The Shed, rear of Sportsman PH (8.15pm, 1st, song & acoustic music): Paul K, 07970 188026

HERTFORD • Great Eastern, Railway Place (3rd): Keith Acheson, 07979 841079

HUNTON BRIDGE • King’s Head (4th): Tim, 01923 264536

KIMPTON • White Horse (2nd & 4th): Doug, 07973 751039, [email protected]

LUTON • Castle PH LU1 3AA (weekly): Nigel Bailey, 07788 431470

TOWERSEY • Three Horseshoes (last): Grant, 01844 212322

WOBURN SANDS • Royal Oak (2nd & 4th): Vic Longhorn, 01908 582660

FriDaY EVEningS AYLESBURY • Queens park Arts Centre (1st, 3rd and 5th): Amanda Diamond, 01296 424332

ST NEOTS • Chequers, St Mary’s St, PE19 2TA (2nd, 8.30pm, tunes): Sarah, 07857 311834, [email protected]

STEEPLE CLAYDON • Prince of Wales MK18 2NP (2nd, Open Mic): Charlie, 07925 145062

Available from all good music shops or online stores

Folk Tunes for GuitarHugh Burns

• Lively and wide-ranging collections of traditional tunes for guitar

• A wide selection of repertoire to suit players of beginner to advanced standard

• All tunes are provided in both music and tab notation

• Complete with notes on interpretation of the pieces and background to the traditional styles

• Each volume includes a CD with full performance tracks played by experienced folk guitarist, Hugh Burns

www.schott-music.co.uk www.schott-music.co.uk

from Irish Folk Tunes for Guitar

NEW


Fri 1 The Forest Band with callers Andrew Kellet and Mary Bryan • WFD

Sat 2 Asha, Simon Loake , Simon and Jo Harmer • HC

Fri 8 Spring Greens with caller Bob Barrett • FF

Sat 9 Kelly’s Eye with caller Ivan Aitken • CFASat 9 The Forest Band with caller

Brian Jones • WFDSat 9 Keeping Thyme with callers Jeannie

Byron-Williams and John Green • BFCFri 15 Friday Folk band with caller

Colin Hume • FFFri 22 Bob Lilley • FFFri 29 Abella with caller Andy Rouse • UCFri 29 Mkie Bennett • FFSat 30 Lebedek with caller Simon Loake • NC

Fri 5 Suzanne Farmer • FFSat 6 Peeping Tom, Hugh Rippon,

Stony Steppers • HCSat 6 Ivel Valley Band with caller Carol

Hewson • SCDFri 12 Friday Folk Band with callers David

and Rebecca Capron • FFSat 13 The Forest Band with caller Sibby

• WFDSun 21 Toucan Play with caller Ted Morse

• CFa2Fri 26 3 Sticks with caller Mary Panton • UCSat 27 Pinker’s Spinney with caller Irene

Entwhistle • NC

Fri 4 Friday Folk Band with caller Jane PfaffSat 5 The Pigeon Swing, Barry Goodman,

Armaleggan • HCFri 11 Andrea Stodell • FFSat 12 The Forest Band with caller Colin Hume

• WFDSat 12 Kelly’s Eye with caller Geoff Cubitt

• BFCFri 18 Melobo with caller Jane Bird • UCFri 18 Spring Greens • FFSat 26 Gig CB with caller Chris Shaw • NC

bFC Bedford Fine Companions: Newnham Middle School, Polhill Ave, Bedford MK41 9DT • David Cooke 01234 823 920

CFa Chiltern Folk Association: Amersham Community Centre, Chiltern Ave, Amersham HP6 5AH • Judith Inman 01628 486845, www.chilternfolk.org.uk

CFa2 Chiltern Folk Association: Amersham Common Village Hall, White Lion Road HP7 9AD • Judith Inman 01628 486845, www.chilternfolk.org.uk

FF Friday Folk: The Church Hall, Marlborough Road, St Albans AL1 3XG • www.fridayfolk.org.uk, 01727 856508

HC Haddenham Ceilidhs: Haddenham Village Hall, Near Aylesbury,

Bucks HP17 8EE • John Heydon 07717 047 039, [email protected], www.haddenhamceilidhs.co.uk

nC Northampton Ceilidhs: Christchurch Hall, Christchurch Road, Northampton NN1 5LL • John Green, 07760 197921, 01933 397767, www.northamptonceilidhs.co.uk

SCD Staplers Country Dance Club: St Ippolyts Parish Hall, Waterdell Lane, St Ippolyts, Hitchin, Herts SG4 7RB • 01582 881 966

UCa Unicorn Ceilidhs: St Mary’s Hall, Church Street, Baldock SG7 5AE • Tel: 01582 724261, 07946 439095, www.unicornceilidhs.org.uk

UCb Unicorn Ceilidhs: Town Hall, High St, Baldock SG7 6AX • Tel: 01582 724261, 07946 439095 www.unicornceilidhs.org.uk

wFD Winchmore Folk Dance Club: Trinity Church, Church Street, Enfield EN2 6AN

• John Wood 020 8926 7293

Allcock & Brown logo.pdf

Mike Ruff and Allcock & Brown present

A Gala Concert

To celebrate 3 new CDs & a couple of books Featuring our special guests

Pete Morton &

Louise Jordan

Friday February 26th at 8pm The Maltings Arts Theatre

St Albans £10 (concessions £8)

includes free glass of wine and interval refreshments

Tickets from www.ticketsource.co.uk/ovo 0844 870 0887 Info [email protected] 01727 831917 www.mikeruffmusic.co.uk



A Gala Concert


Pete Morton &

Louise Jordan







A Gala Concert


Pete Morton &

Louise Jordan







A Gala Concert


Pete Morton &

Louise Jordan





Allcock & Brown

Purveyors of Mirth

Frog on a Bike

Ceilidh Band Energetic English folk music

that’s guaranteed to get you up and dancing.

Call: 01775 640585

www.thefrogonabikeceilidhband.moonfruit.com www.facebook.com/frogonabike

http://frogonabikeceilidhband.bandcamp.com

For further information See www.hertsfolkassn.org.uk Call John Grey 01920 460553

Or email [email protected]

At

THE CROWN17 High Street, BUNTINGFORD

Hertfordshire, SG9 9AB

ADMISSION £5(food available from the bar)

1716 WWW.UNICORNMAGAzINE.ORGUniCorn MagazinE: iSSUE 133PLEASE MENTION UNICORN MAGAzINE WHEN REPLYING TO ADS UniCorn MagazinE: iSSUE 133

Simply tell us what size advert you want, supply all the relevant content (text, photos,

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UM ad design service ad.indd 1 21/11/13 16:45:23

Sat 2 HADDENHAM • Ceilidh: Asha, Simon Loake, Simon and Jo Harmer

HADDENHAM • Concert: Nine Barrow and Out of Hand

Mon 4 HERGA • Open Stage ETCETERA • English Country Dance Session HITCHIN STAPLERS • Club Evening WALTHAM ABBEY • Sing the New Year inTue 5 WICKET BROOD • Border Morris Practice ST NEOTS • New Year SingaroundWed 6 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Morris Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Club –

Club Callers WOODSIDE • Morris Practice MOGGERHANGER • Village FolkThu 7 BEDFORD FDC • Caller Georg Hearnden BEDFORD • New Year Singers Night REDBOURN • Open Stage featuring BearwoodFri 8 WATFORD • Singaround CAMBRIDGE CONTRA • Dance night CAMBRIDGE • Open stage with Ross Cockburn

and Jay Brown FRIDAY FOLK • Bob Barrett and Spring Greens BEDFORD FINE • Club Night ROYSTON • Showcase session featuring

Jeremiah Brothers and StorywheelSun 10 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Morris Practice HITCHIN • Barry Goodman and FriendsMon 11 HERGA • The Foxglove Trio ETCETERA • Morris Practice LEASIDERS • Club Caller HITCHIN STAPLERS • Club Evening WALTHAM ABBEY • SingaroundTue 12 WICKET BROOD • Border Morris Practice HERTFORD • Mike Excell ST NEOTS • Terence BlackerWed 13 ELY • Sunjay ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Country Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Club –

Club Callers WOODSIDE • Morris Practice BALDOCK • WildfiresThu 14 BEDFORD FDC • Caller Jane Edmett BEDFORD • Local singers and musicians REDBOURN • Pete Morton plus floor spots BISHOP STORTFORD • Singers nightFri 15 WATFORD • Chris Flegg CAMBRIDGE • Showcase with Karen Johnnson

and Tony Clark, Little Black Dress Duo FOREST FOLK • Forest of Fools FRIDAY FOLK • Colin Hume and Friday

Folk Band BEDFORD FINE • Club NightSun 17 WICKET BROOD • Wassail at the Watercress

Wildlife Association HITCHIN • John KirkpatrickMon 18 HERGA • Open Stage ETCETERA • Morris Practice LEASIDERS • Club Caller HITCHIN STAPLERS • Club Evening WALTHAM ABBEY • SingaroundTue 19 WICKET BROOD • Border Morris Practice ST NEOTS • Steve TilstonWed 20 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Country Practice

LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Club – Guest caller Richard Bell

WOODSIDE • Morris Practice BALDOCK • Tentrees and HaldaneThu 21 BEDFORD FDC • Caller Kevin Prigmore BEDFORD • Singaround REDBOURN • Open Stage BISHOP STORTFORD • Bernard Hoskins

and Rhys WilsonFri 22 WATFORD • Singaround CAMBRIDGE CONTRA • 20th Birthday Party CAMBRIDGE • Rob Appleton’s Dryad FRIDAY FOLK • Bob Lilley BEDFORD FINE • Club NightSun 24 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Morris and

Mumming Practice HITCHIN • Bully Wee Band with Phil BeerMon 25 HERGA • Open Stage ETCETERA • Morris Practice LEASIDERS • Club Caller HITCHIN STAPLERS • Anglo Scottish evening,

Colin Hume and Spring Greens WALTHAM ABBEY • SingaroundTue 26 WICKET BROOD • Border Morris Practice HERTFORD • Oka Vanga ST NEOTS • Round the roomWed 27 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Country Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Club –

Club Callers WOODSIDE • Morris Practice BALDOCK • Dave KellyThu 28 BEDFORD FDC • Caller John Green BEDFORD • Local singers and musicians REDBOURN • Kara plus floor spots BISHOP STORTFORD • Geoff HigginbottomFri 29 WATFORD • Spotlight singaround featuring

Dudley Edmunds CAMBRIDGE • Open stage with Robin Gillan FRIDAY FOLK • Mike Bennett BEDFORD FINE • Club Night ROYSTON • Martin CarthySun 31 HITCHIN • Churchfitters

On Friday 13th November, Watford Folk Club was proud to host their fourth annual ‘Write a Folk Song Competition’. This year’s theme

was ‘Lovers and Losers’ and the final saw ten songwriters entertain a most attentive audience with a superb mix of songs. Judges Graeme Meek, Caz Forbes and Pete White were impressed with the diversity of songs and styles and they had the unenviable task of picking a winner and a runner up. The trophy was finally awarded to Emma Scarr and Johnny Black (pictured) for their witty and observational song, ‘The Wrong Kind of Men’. This year’s runner up was Richard Stewart who took a historical romp through well-known love affairs.

In total, there were 28 entries for the competition which were whittled down to just ten for the final. As in previous years, entries came from far and wide and the final saw a blend of local and national talent. All the finalists’ songs were warmly received by the audience; one guest described the occasion as ‘most enjoyable with a friendly

atmosphere’ and a performer remarked that it was ‘a joy to both play and listen.’

The Watford Folk Club committee would like to thank all the entrants, the judges and the audience for making this competition our best yet. Please see our advertisement for further details about what’s coming up at the club in the coming months – a warm welcome awaits you.


watford Folk Club Song Competition 2015

WiNNERS ‘BLACK SCARR’

PHOTOgRAPH By KiND PERMiSSiON OF STEVE MCCLENNON

we desperately need help to distribute copies of Unicorn Magazine to the 60 or so distribution

locations on our list.if you could help by taking copies to your club,

session or venue every quarter, please contact us.

Even small deliveries will help reduce the crippling postage & petrol bills!

Mon 1 HERGA • Open Stage ETCETERA • English Country Dance Session HITCHIN STAPLERS • Club Evening WALTHAM ABBEY • Tom LewisTue 2 WICKET BROOD • Border Morris Practice ST NEOTS • Maz O’ConnorWed 3 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Morris Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Club –

Club Callers WOODSIDE • Morris Practice MOGGERHANGER • Village Folk BALDOCK • Jenny Ritter BandThu 4 BEDFORD FDC • Caller Charles Day BEDFORD • Singaround REDBOURN • Open stage BISHOP STORTFORD • Singers Night (tbc) BEDFORD PLACE • MegsonFri 5 WATFORD • Ringlefinch CAMBRIDGE CONTRA • Dance night CAMBRIDGE • Jim Page FRIDAY FOLK • Suzanne Farmer BEDFORD FINE • Club NightSat 6 HADDENHAM • Ceilidh: Peeping Tom,

Hugh Rippon, Stony Steppers HADDENHAM • Concert: Dave Webber and

Anni Fentiman, Jon Dyer and Alfie GidleySun 7 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Morris Practice HITCHIN • Steve TilstonMon 8 HERGA • Colin Pitts ETCETERA • Morris Practice LEASIDERS • Club Caller HITCHIN STAPLERS • Club Evening WALTHAM ABBEY • SingaroundTue 9 WICKET BROOD • Border Morris Practice HERTFORD • Liz Cotton ST NEOTS • PerkeltWed 10 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Country Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Club –

Club Callers WOODSIDE • Morris Practice BALDOCK • Open floor with MC Phil HewittThu 11 BEDFORD FDC • Caller Lorrain and

Ced Morgan BEDFORD • Singers night REDBOURN • Daniel Nestlerode with Paul

Ballantyne plus floor spots BISHOP STORTFORD • RosewoodFri 12 WATFORD • Themed spotlight singaround –

“Love” CAMBRIDGE • Brooks Williams FRIDAY FOLK • David and Rebecca Capron

and Friday Folk Band BEDFORD FINE • Club Night ROYSTON • Showcase session with

Brokedown PalaceSun 14 HITCHIN • Nancy Kerr and the Sweet

Visitor BandMon 15 HERGA • Open Stage ETCETERA • Morris Practice HITCHIN STAPLERS • Club Evening WALTHAM ABBEY • SingaroundTue 16 WICKET BROOD • Border Morris Practice ST NEOTS • North Sea Gas

Wed 17 ELY • Keith Donnelly ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Country Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Club –

Guest caller Mike Ruff WOODSIDE • Morris Practice BALDOCK • Feature night: Stella Hensley and

Chris Newman, Chris Lord and her Blues Express

Thu 18 BEDFORD FDC • Caller Lynne Whapples BEDFORD • Local singers and musicians REDBOURN • Open stage BISHOP STORTFORD • Les SullivanFri 19 WATFORD • Ritz and Wesson – singer /

songwriters and band CAMBRIDGE CONTRA • Dance night CAMBRIDGE • Mike Clifford’s Bophouse Blues FOREST FOLK • Ben Maggs FRIDAY FOLK • TBA BEDFORD FINE • Club NightSun 21 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Morris and

Mumming Practice HITCHIN • Edwina HayesMon 22 HERGA • Open Stage ETCETERA • Morris Practice LEASIDERS • Club Caller HITCHIN STAPLERS • Club Evening WALTHAM ABBEY • SingaroundTue 23 WICKET BROOD • Border Morris Practice HERTFORD • Naomi Randall ST NEOTS • Round the roomWed 24 LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Club –

Club Callers WOODSIDE • Morris Practice BALDOCK • Open floor with MC Chris SissonsThu 25 BEDFORD FDC • Caller Kevin Prigmore BEDFORD • Singaround REDBOURN • The James Brothers plus

floor spots BISHOP STORTFORD • Ron Truman-BorderFri 26 WATFORD • Singaround CAMBRIDGE • Sally Barker FRIDAY FOLK • TBA BEDFORD FINE • Club Night ROYSTON • Carnac and The MalingerersSun 28 HITCHIN • Allan TaylorMon 29 HERGA • Open Stage ETCETERA • Morris Practice LEASIDERS • Club Caller HITCHIN STAPLERS • Club Evening WALTHAM ABBEY • Singaround

Tue 1 WICKET BROOD • Border Morris Practice ST NEOTS • Steve TurnerWed 2 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Morris Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Club –

Club Callers WOODSIDE • Morris Practice MOGGERHANGER • Village Folk BALDOCK • North Sea GasThu 3 BEDFORD FDC • Caller Keith Harrap BEDFORD • Singers night REDBOURN • Hannah Sanders plus floor spots BISHOP STORTFORD • Winter-Wilson (tbc)Fri 4 WATFORD • Spotlight singaround featuring

Richard Scruton and Roj Lewis CAMBRIDGE CONTRA • Dance night CAMBRIDGE • Open stage with Judy Buchanan,

Dave Jenkins and Marion Treby FRIDAY FOLK • Jane Pfaff and Friday Folk Band BEDFORD FINE • Club NightSat 5 HADDENHAM • Ceilidh: The Pigeon Swing,

Barry Goodman, Armaleggan HADDENHAM • Concert: John Kirkpatrick,

Tim’s BandSun 6 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Morris Practice HITCHIN • Kelly OliverMon 7 HERGA • Open Stage ETCETERA • English Country Dance Session LEASIDERS • Club Caller HITCHIN STAPLERS • Club Evening WALTHAM ABBEY • Sally Ironmonger

and Brian CarterTue 8 WICKET BROOD • Border Morris Practice HERTFORD • Richard Stewart and

Sam Kennedy ST NEOTS • Pete Coe and Alice JonesWed 9 LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Club –

Club Callers WOODSIDE • Morris Practice BALDOCK • Feature night: Barry Goodman,

Phil HewittThu 10 BEDFORD FDC • Caller Jane Edmett BEDFORD • Singaround REDBOURN • Open stage BISHOP STORTFORD • Si BarronFri 11 WATFORD • Polly Morris CAMBRIDGE • Sunjay Brayne FOREST FOLK • The Jigantics FRIDAY FOLK • Andrea Stodell BEDFORD FINE • Club Night ROYSTON • Showcase Session featuring

Crooked Tree and Mike ExcellSun 13 Coven 2016 celebrating international Women’s

Day with O’Hooley and Tiddow, Lady Maisery and Grace Petrie

Mon 14 HERGA • Hannah Cummings ETCETERA • Morris Practice LEASIDERS • Club Caller HITCHIN STAPLERS • Club Evening WALTHAM ABBEY • SingaroundTue 15 WICKET BROOD • Border Morris Practice ST NEOTS • Open stageWed 16 ELY • Jim Moray ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Country Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Club – Guest

caller Mark Elvins

WOODSIDE • Morris Practice BALDOCK • Daniel NestlerodeThu 17 BEDFORD FDC • Caller John Green BEDFORD • Local singers and musicians REDBOURN • Gary Smith plus floor spots BISHOP STORTFORD • Singers night

(theme St Patrick’s night)Fri 18 WATFORD • Themed singaround –

Easter /Ireland CAMBRIDGE CONTRA • Dance night CAMBRIDGE • Sam Carter FRIDAY FOLK • Spring Greens BEDFORD FINE • Club NightSun 20 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Morris and

Mumming Practice HITCHIN • GigspannerMon 21 HERGA • Open Stage ETCETERA • Morris Practice LEASIDERS • Club Caller HITCHIN STAPLERS • Club Evening WALTHAM ABBEY • Jon HeslopTue 22 WICKET BROOD • Border Morris Practice HERTFORD • David Cambridge and

Murray Shelmerdine ST NEOTS • Tom LewisWed 23 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Country Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Club –

Club Callers WOODSIDE • Morris Practice BALDOCK • Open floor with MC Brian BurkeThu 24 BEDFORD FDC • Caller Ann Gibson BEDFORD • Easter singaround REDBOURN • Open stage BISHOP STORTFORD • Allcock and BrownFri 25 CAMBRIDGE • Showcase with The

Broadside Boys ROYSTON • The WillowsSun 27 HITCHIN • Dave Ellis, Boo Howard and

Liz SimcockMon 28 HERGA • Open Stage ETCETERA • Morris PracticeTue 29 WICKET BROOD • Border Morris Practice ST NEOTS • Round the roomWed 30 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Country Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Club –

Club Callers WOODSIDE • Morris Practice BALDOCK • Feature night: Kris Hughes,

Bernard HoskinThu 31 BEDFORD FDC • Caller Terry Elvins BEDFORD • Singers night REDBOURN • Black Scarr plus floor spots BISHOP STORTFORD • TBB


BALDOCK • Baldock and Letchworth Blues, Folk and RootsThe Orange Tree, Norton Road, Baldock SG7 5AWContact: Alan Hewson, 01767 683 583, [email protected]

BEDFORD FDC • Bedford Folk Dance ClubPutnoe Heights Church, Bedford MK41 8EBContact: Ron D. Law, 01234 825574 www.bedfordfolkdanceclub.com

BEDFORD • Bedford Folk Music ClubKempston Hammers Sports and Social Club, 134 High Street, Kempston, Bedfordshire MK42 7BN Tel: 01234 853262Contact: Mike Blair, 01525 404513 – see us on Facebook

BEDFORD • Bedford Fine Companions Folk Dance ClubHazeldene Lower School, Stancliffe Rd, Bedford MK41 9ATContact: David Cooke, 01234 823920 www.finecompanions.synthasite.com

BEDFORD PLACE • The Place TheatreBradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DEContact: Laura Pottinger, 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk

BISHOP’S STORTFORD • StortfolkRoyal British Legion, 28 Windhill, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2NGContact: Jon & Hilary McNamara, 01279 656664 www.beerfordbury.co.uk

CAMBRIDGE • Cambridge Folk ClubGolden Hind PH, 355 Milton Rd, Cambridge CB4 1SPContact: Marion Treby, 01638 603986 www.cambridgefolkclub.org

CAMBRIDGE • Cambridge Contra DanceSt Andrew’s Hall, St Andrew’s Rd, Chesterton CB4 1DHContact: Hugh Stewart, 01223 368641, www.cambridgefolk.org.uk/contra

ELY • Ely Folk ClubThe Old Dispensary, St Mary’s Street, Ely, Cambs CB7 4ERContact: Ruth Bramley / Andy Wall, 01353 740999 / 01353 664706 www.elyfolkclub.co.uk

EngLiSH MiSCELLanY East Hyde Village Hall, Lower Harpenden Rd (B653), nr Luton LU2 9QBContact: Eileen Heylin, 01442 255862 www.englishmiscellany.com

EtCEtEra • Etcetera Morris MenChase Community School, Churchbury Lane, Enfield, EN1 3HQContact: Jeff Hopwood (Bagman), 020 8366 0637 [email protected], www.etcmorrismen.org.uk

FOREST FOLK • Forest Folk and RootsThe College Arms, College Road, Cranfield, Beds MK43 0SRContact: Trevor Dove, 07931 859 737, www.forestfolkandroots.weebly.com

FRIDAY FOLK • Friday Folk Social Dance ClubMethodist Church, Marlborough Rd, St Albans AL1 3XGContact: Bob Barrett, 01727 856508 www.fridayfolk.org.uk

HaDDEnHaM • Haddenham Ceilidhs & Concerts, FestivalHaddenham Village Hall, near Aylesbury, Bucks HP17 8EEContact: John Heydon, 07717 047 039, [email protected] www.haddenhamceilidhs.co.uk

HERGA • Herga Folk ClubPinner Green Social Club, Greenwood Hall, Rickmansworth Rd, Pinner, Middlesex HA5 3TJContact: George Papavgeris, 07747 768868 www.hergafolk.org

HErtForD • The White Horse Folk ClubWhite Horse PH, Castle St, Hertford SG14 1HHContact: Pat Crilly 07971 804418, [email protected]

HITCHIN • Hitchin Folk ClubSun Hotel, Sun St, Hitchin, SG5 1AFContact: Maureen Jones, 01462 812391 www.hitchinfolkclub.co.uk

HITCHIN STAPLERS • Staplers Country Dance ClubSt John’s Community Centre, St John’s Rd, Hitchin SG4 9JPContact: Cecilia Mills, 01582 881966, www.staplers.org.uk

LEASIDERS • Leasiders Folk Dance ClubBlenheim Baptist Church Hall, Blenheim Crescent, Luton LU3 1HBContact: Brian or Liz Patrick, 01582 732656

LINSLADE • LinsleighdersForster Institute, Waterloo Road, Linslade LU7 2NRContact: Mrs E.A. Corser, 01525 378010

MOGGERHANGER • Village FolkMoggerhanger Village Hall, Blunham Rd, Moggerhanger, MK44 3RDContact: Chris Bashford, 01767 640242 [email protected]

REDBOURN • Redbourn Folk ClubOld School Room, Hollybush PH, Church End, Redbourn AL3 7DUContact: Jenny McNaught, 01582 793164 www.redbournfolkclub.org.uk

ROYSTON • Royston Folk ClubOld Bull Inn, 56 High Street, Royston SG8 9AWContact: Mark Gamon (showcases) 07738 183158, Chris Walls (concerts) 01763 260 556, www.roystonfolk.org

ST NEOTS • St Neots Folk ClubPriory Centre, Priory Lane, St Neots PE19 2BHContact: Roger Pitt, 01234 376278, www.stneotsfolkclub.co.uk

WALTHAM ABBEY • Waltham Abbey Folk ClubRoyal British Legion, Brooker Rd, Waltham Abbey EN9 1HYContact: Jan Ayres, 01992 613987, www.walthamabbeyfolkclub.com

WATFORD • Watford Folk ClubPump House, Local Board Roadd, Lower High Street, Watford WD17 2JPContact: Pete Nutkins, www.folkatthepumphouse.webs.com, www.facebook.com/groups/watfordfolkclub

WICKET BROOD • Wicket Brood Border MorrisSt Stephen Parish Centre, Station Road, Bricket Wood, AL2 3PJContact: Penny Simpson-Giles, [email protected] www.wicketbrood.org.uk

WOODSIDE • Woodside Morris MenPump House Theatre and Arts Centre, Local Board Road, Watford WD17 2JPContact: Nick Wilson, 07860 663033, www.woodsidemorrismen.com

2322 WWW.UNICORNMAGAzINE.ORGPLEASE MENTION UNICORN MAGAzINE WHEN REPLYING TO ADS UniCorn MagazinE: iSSUE 133 UniCorn MagazinE: iSSUE 133

Jan 5 New Year Singaround Feb 2 Maz O’Connor Jan 12 Terence Blacker Feb 9 PerKelt Jan 19 Steve Tilston (£12 & £10) Feb 16 North Sea Gas Jan 26 Round the Room Feb 23 Round the Room

Mar 1 Steve Turner

Mar 8 Pete Coe & Alice Jones Mar 15 Open Stage Mar 22 Tom Lewis

Mar 29 Round the Room

DATE for DIARIES! St Neots Folk Festival June 10th –13th 2016

The Priory Centre,St. Neots, PE19 2BH

Every Tuesday 8.00pmEmail – [email protected]

Telephone - 01234 376278

www.stneotsfolkclub.co.uk

TASTER SESSION MONDAY 18 JANUARY 8PMST ALBANS

FOR MEN AND WOMEN DANCING MIXED COTSWOLD

CONTACT: Trevor Adams 01707 883476WEBSITE: www.stalbansmorrismen.org.uk

UM133 UM3 St Albans Morris Ad 1.indd 1 19/11/15 18:27:05

CEILIDHSat Haddenham Village Hall

Near Aylesbury, Bucks. HP17 8EE

Jan 2 Asha + Simon Loake + Simon & Jo Harmer

Feb 6 Peeping Tom + Hugh Rippon+ Stony Steppers

Mar 5 The Pigeon Swing + BarryGoodman + Armaleggan

Apr 2 Polkaworks + Aiden Hansell

CONCERTSJan 2 Ninebarrow + Out of HandFeb 6 Dave Webber & Anni Fentiman

+ Jon Dyer & Alfie GidleyMar 5 John Kirkpatrick + Tim’s BandApr 2 Andy Cutting

Details 07717 047 039 • [email protected]

www.haddenhamceilidhs.co.uk

HADDENHAM

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advertisement Sizes:Please note that from March 2013 we changed our adverts sizes and prices to the following shown below.

Prices are for supplied, correctly-sized, press-ready artwork:

Quarter page (portrait) £22.00 Trim size: 63.5mm (W) x 92mm (H)

Half page (landscape) £35.00 Trim size: 134mm (W) x 92mm (H)

Half page (portrait) £35.00 Trim size: 63.5mm (W) x 191mm (H)

Full inner page (no border) £55.00 Trim size: 134mm (W) x 191mm (H)

Full inner page (with border) £60.00 Trim size: 148 x 210mm Bleed size: 151 x 216mm

inside Front or Back Cover £67.00 (with or without border)• No border: Trim size: 134mm (W) x 196mm (H)

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Please note that we will be adding the black line around ad box shapes in-house – PLEaSE LEaVE anY borDEr LinES oFF YoUr aD DESign.

Diary EntriesThese include free entry in the Club index.

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For a complete guide to advertising with us, including a full set of technical specifications and suggestions to ensure your ad looks as good as possible, please download a copy of our Media Pack, available from our website.

takE aDVantagE oF oUr 10% DiSCoUnt For FoUr iSSUES bookED & PaiD For in aDVanCE – anY SizE!

www.benslowmusic.orgBenslow Music, Benslow Lane, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG4 9RB

T: 01462 459446 E: [email protected]

A company limited by guarantee. Registered in England no 408404. Reg Charity no 313663

FOLK MUSIC COURSES

JOHN PLAYFORD WEEKEND, CLARSACH, FIDDLE MUSIC OF SCOTLAND AND IRELAND, ACCORDION DAY, SUMMERTIME KLEZMER, THE SOUL OF

HUNGARIAN GYPSY MUSIC, FOLK FIDDLING AND MORE...

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© Brad Evans 2015

When the mid-winter moon is a full, ripe peachWhen a gentle breeze blows through the treesAn old man wanders down a dead, country lanePast a turnpike – left broke by the centuries He looks for those he no longer knows –His memories left in tatters by the years.There’s a barn down a dead, country laneWhere strings can be heard ‘midst the cheers...

Take me! Take me! Take me!To the full moon céilidhWhere the farmers light their firesOn the fields of seasons’ gone.

Where the ladies can’t stop laughingAnd the men just can’t stop grinningWhere dancing can be heard ‘til the dawn...

There’s a broke turnpike left alone by the centuriesWhere a motorist drives past without knowingThere’s a barn that once stood down a dead, country laneWith a lonely old man now dancing...

So, take me! Take me! Take me!To the full moon céilidhWhere the farmers light their firesOn the fields of seasons’ past.

Where the ladies can’t stop laughingAnd the men just can’t stop grinningWhile the drunken poets roar away the night!

An old man wanders up a dead, country lanePast a turnpike – left broke by the centuriesHe looks for those he no longer knows -His memories left in tatters by the years...

We were delighted when Brad submitted this for publication. This is what he says of it:

“ This submission is a ballad (poem) in honour of the céilidh folk dance.

After studying céilidh dances on YouTube and using a diagram-of-movement chart I have tried to replicate the rhythms and cadence of the actual dance with this poem.”

Website Design

Photography

Graphic Design

SPECIALIST WEBSITE,

PHOTOGRAPHY AND DESIGN

SERVICE FOR MUSICIANS,

BANDS, TEACHERS,

FOLK CLUBS AND VENUES.

prices start from £300

Karen DonnellyE: [email protected]: 07775 997248www.karendesigner.uk

www.karendesigner.uk

Christchurch Hall, Christchurch Road,

Northampton NN1 5LL

MON, 28 December, 2015 CEILIDH Ock'N'Dough - Interval: Bubbles

SAT, 30 January, 2016 CEILIDH Lebedek & Simon Loake

SAT, 27 February CEILIDH Pinker's Spinney & Irene Entwhistle

Interval: Old Mother Redcap

SAT, 26 March CEILIDH Gig CB & Chris Shaw

_______________________

Dancing from 8pm to 11pm

Adults £9; Student £5; Accompanied under

16s FREE ; Group of 6 ( paying) one free

Licenced Bar Free Car Park

Ruth 01933 397767, Valerie 01604 711536

John 07760 197921 www.northamptonceilidhs.co.uk

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If you see a bunch of people jumping about with painted faces, dressed in coats covered with ribbons and bits of cloth and clashing sticks,

they are likely to be a Border Morris side. Border Morris, or Welsh Border Morris to be pedantic, originated in the counties of Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Shropshire (i.e. the counties along the border with Wales – hence the name). The original outfits seem to have been much more varied from what appear to be almost homemade clown costumes to ordinary work clothes with some ribbons and bells attached. Unlike Cotswold Morris it is particularly associated with Christmas and winter, though there is some evidence that it was also performed at other times of the year.

The original dances are not so well noted or collected. A few, such as Pershore and Brimfield, are in the “Black Book” (something of a bible for Morris dancers) but the instructions for stepping and figures are not as clear as those of Cotswold Morris, some dances it seems consisted of a number of figures which could be danced or not depending upon the preferences of the dancers.

This lack of detail about how it was danced gives a wide opportunity for reinterpreting the collected dances and for creating new ones without fearing being considered “untraditional”, (not that it should be an issue anyway). Generally speaking the dances were based on long-ways sets for an indeterminate number of dancers often dancing in sets of four with the chorus being some sticking. The stepping is also simpler than in Cotswold: it is often a step-hop, a sort of running step or some combination which also adds to its attraction. It looks wild, chaotic and deceptively easy.

The revival of Border Morris seems to have started in the 1970’s with Shropshire Bedlams. Having inspired other sides, their interpretation of Border Morris has largely not only set the standard and style of the dance but, with their blackened faces, rag coats and battered top hats decorated with feathers, they have also defined the costume.

There is an “earthiness” in Border Morris which, when added to its association with the winter

months, can give it overtones of dark mysticism and paganism. This is something some Border Morris sides have consciously fostered and exploit as part of their appearance and performance.

If all this seems a bit vague, well it is. Morris in general is not simply a fixed set of dances, it is constantly evolving as successive waves of dancers stamp their own creativity upon a traditional form, and this seems to be particularly true of Border Morris. However, if you want to know more about its origins a good source is The Roots of Welsh Border Morris by Dave Jones. Originally published in 1988 it is still available online from The Morris Shop (www.themorrisshop.com), you might even find it on Amazon.

Being a winter tradition, Plough Monday is often a good occasion to see Border Morris. Traditionally this was the start of the agricultural year and is generally calculated as the first Monday after the Twelfth Day of Christmas, which is 6 January (So for 2016 it will be Monday, 11th Jan). Though in this region at least it is associated more with Molly dancing (of which more in a later issue). Another opportunity to see Border Morris is the Whittlesey Straw Bear (the parade and dance displays are on Saturday 16th Jan) – check the website for details: www.strawbear.org.uk.

Although popular nationally, every year there seem to be more Border Morris sides at various festivals and Days of Dance, there does not seem to be that many sides in the Unicorn area compared to other regions. Woadworks, Queens Oak and Wicket Brood are three that spring to mind and then there is the Ely & Littleport Riot in Cambridgeshire. Further afield there are the Witchmen up in Northampton and Datchet Border Morris in Berkshire. Other sides, such as Bedford Morris Men, only do Border Morris in the winter reverting to Cotswold in the summer months.

And what about Joe? “Not for Joe” is one of the dance tunes which seems to have been so popular that Border Morris dancers were sometimes referred to as “Not for Joers”.

Chas Leslie

Folk sounds best at Cecil Sharp House2 Regent’s Park Road, London, NW1 7AY

Season highlights

Promoter Supporters

cecilsharphouse.org | 020 7485 2206

@cecilsharphouse/cecilsharphouse @cecilsharphouse

Laura Smyth & Ted Kemp / AlmaWednesday 9 March, 7.30pm, £10

Chris Wood & Andy Cutting Sunday 17 January, 7.30pm, £18

Lucy Ward Wednesday 20 April, 7.30pm, £12

John McCusker 25th Anniversary tourThursday 28 April, £16.50

Andy Cutting, Adam Holmes, Innes White & Toby Shaer, with Heidi Talbot and special guests

Megan HenwoodWednesday 23 March, 7.30pm, £12

Martin Carthy & John KirkpatrickWednesday 17 February, 7.30pm, £17

Dan WalshWednesday 4 May, 7.30pm, £12

The Changing RoomWednesday 24 February, 7.30pm, £12

Greg Russell, Ciaran Algar and Luke JacksonWednesday 6 April, 7.30pm, £12

The DuhksWednesday 13 January, 7.30pm, £14

Ange HardyWednesday 2 March, 7.30pm, £12

Moore Moss RutterWednesday 13 April, 7.30pm, £12

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willy Porter at the green note6th october 2015

There’s a question Elizabeth Gilbert asks in her new book, which attempts to do away with the long held myth that you have to

suffer and be in constant struggle to create art. Gilbert’s question is simply, “Why would your creativity not love you?”

Last night at the Green Note, a venue that exudes warmth from the hardwood floorboards to the glass roof allowing the stars and night sky to seep into the room, I saw that myth shatter into a million pieces in the form of singer-songwriter and guitar virtuoso Willy Porter. Porter was touring the UK in support of his new album ‘Human Kindness’. During the hour and half, there was no question as to whether Porter’s music loved him as much he loved making it. The relationship between the man, his guitar and his music was one of love, and true to all music, one of fun.

Willy Porter resides in Milwaukee, Wisconsin with his wife and children. With his soft and heartwarming voice, soulful lyricism and breathtaking guitar playing, Porter blurs the lines between blues, soul and roots music.

Boston born rock siren, Anna Coogan opened the show. Just a voice and an electric guitar, Anna captivated the crowd, particularly with a song trying to make sense of the tragic bombings in Boston.

Willy opened with ‘Elouise’, a song off his new album; a love letter to his wife. The song was beautifully crafted, and though I had heard about Porter’s reputation for being an out of this world guitar player, nothing could have prepared for seeing the man work his magic in the flesh. There isn’t a note that man can’t hit!

Apart from being a talented musician and singer, Willy is a wry storyteller and an incredibly funny guy. There were moments between songs when he had the audience in stitches. One of these, was the lead up to the song ‘Paper Airplanes’ which has now become a favourite of mine, much in part because of the accompanying story Willy told, involving an open window, a woman in a hair towel and a man with a guitar trying to woo said woman with his guitar playing.

“I want to erase all doubt / Want to stand naked before the sun / I want to lay down beside you.”

Near the latter end of the set, Willy asked if it would be okay if we joined him on writing a song there and then. He asked us to call out topics, which ranged from Corgis to tube strikes to odd alcoholic beverages. The result was a song like no other; a sweetly crafted love song albeit with slightly odd lyrics, set to wonderful music.

The set closed with the title track ‘Human Kindness’, written from a personal experience of being pulled from harms way and knowing that all human beings are inherently good and kind. When it all comes down to it, it’s hardwired in all us to help one another. The song is a beautiful and reaffirming message, which Willy sings with such conviction, softening the hearts of those cynics among us.

“Human kindness is alive and well / Where will find it, no one can tell / Wear it for shelter surround yourself / Human kindness is alive and well.”

I left the Green Note not only a fan of Willy Porter but also with a warmer and happier heart.

Emily Algar

www.willyporter.comwww.greennote.co.uk

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Photo © Mark Waite Photography

Many thanks to Emily for this great review. Emily is a freelance journalist based in the UK with a background in international Relations. She has profiled, reviewed and interviewed artists such as Lindi Ortega, Anderson East, Lily & Madeleine, and Joy Williams. She is also the resident music writer for the non-profit organisation i AM THAT giRL.

We were delighted to get a call recently from veteran bass player & record producer

(as well as Bedfordshire resident / Unicorn reader) Charles Foskett, keen to discuss his latest project to put a folk band together. Clive downed tools and chatted through the process over a cup of tea in the wonderful ‘Foskett’s Folk Factory’ studio facility…

You’ve been developing this project for a year or so, Charles – how’s it coming along so far?

It’s a slow process, but so far so good! I’m writing songs at the moment and also sourcing material from Grammy-awarded writers and publishers worldwide – co-writing is also a possibility if the chemistry works. I need only the strongest and most radio-friendly material which in keeping its identity as folk music also has the potential to crossover into the mainstream.

Can you give us an overview of your concept for the new band?

The band will be very much song-based, encompassing the obvious audience friendly call and answer material – very organic. I’d like to perform songs with the energy and rawness of the Seeger Session band, mixed with the exquisite arrangements, melodies and lyric writing of Sting’s ‘Last Ship’ album – also old sea shanties which will work well with our original compositions. The material will be very vocal orientated – three part harmony BVs with both male and female singer instrumentalists equally fronting the band. We will also have guest international names at high profile festivals and also on our debut album (to strengthen and big-up marketing of an unknown and new band).

what are you looking for in terms of input from the musicians involved?

All the musicians are expected to put in enough rehearsal time and recording time (unpaid at this stage unfortunately, there is no official budget for the project as yet) in order to get this collective business (and it’s product) off the ground. l do understand that everyone has to make a living, therefore any sideline work (teaching, gigs etc) shouldn’t be affected (unless they coincide with the band’s gig dates, in which case the musicians are expected to prioritise this project!). Everyone on board will have the same attitude and focus in giving 100% commitment to speculative work - rehearsals, promotional and charity concerts, and all marketing and promo possibilities in order to raise the game of both the band and the brand.

Once up and running we would split gig fees evenly (great or small) to all members – it will all be about speculating in order to accumulate. This is a business, as well as a musical, enterprise.

You clearly have experience of the business side of such an endeavour...

Building up the gig base and fan base with live performances, starting at ground level from the local pub folk gig, up to headlining the biggest national folk festivals, is the most important route for the first year or two. If there is major label interest with units sold from our own merchandise table then we will be in a strong position and can negotiate whatever deals we want. Once established, there are always sponsorship deals to be had if the nature of the music is commercial enough and picked up for branding possibilities, licensing to movies, media and licensing to foreign labels etc.

it also sounds like you have considered the practical sides of setting such a band up...

It’s not all hard slog! Rehearsals will be held mostly in my studio in Dunstable to start with, along with demo recording to help in developing very necessary musical and vox arrangements Many musicians now have their own recording set up in which case all the better – we can share ideas by emailing stems etc!

So, if any musicians in the Unicorn readership are interesting in getting involved...?

Well, if you know that you have the chops, double on a second instrument and possess a good singing voice (but equally importantly crave a successful career on an international scale) then please visit my website in the first instance (www.charlesfoskett.com) and drop me an email.

Finally, i know you’ve worked with a huge range of acts over the course of your career – any interesting projects on the go at the moment?

I have upcoming gigs and sessions with the likes of Eliza Carthy, Peter Knight (ex Steeleye) and Gigspanner – also Julie Felix on a new re-design for her next album and also major hit singer / songwriter Judie Tzuke amongst others. I’m also looking for potential new recording and production clients (artists / singers / bands) so do get in touch if you have a requirement.

There are two categories, under 18 and 18–24. The judges, James Findlay, Bryony Griffith, Andy Stafford and Valmai Goodyear will give helpful advice and award performance opportunities.

To enter, sendus up to 15 minutes of your music.See instructionson our web site.

Closing date: January 31 2016

Finals: April 10th 2015@ Trestle Arts Base, St [email protected]

If you are under 25 and play traditionally based music, this is for you...

133 New Roots Quarter Page (portrait).indd 1 6/12/15 18:46:26

January 1 Julian Mount, Warp and Weft,Ellie Rees, New Roots fi nalists Anna and Beth

February 5 Oka Vanga, Mike Excell,New Roots fi nalists Jon and Alfi e

March 4 Nanne and Ankie from the

8.00pm at the Maltings Arts Theatre

Tickets £10, student concessions £8 from:

www.ticketsource.co.uk/ovo0844 870 0887St Albans Tourist and Information Centre

Further information:W: www.stalbansfolkmusic.org.ukE: [email protected]

133 Folk at Maltings Quarter Page (portrait) .indd 1 6/12/15 18:55:48

Saturday June 18th

Festival concert withLady Maiseryplus Emma Scarr & Johnny Black

Day of Dance in the City CentreFor further details see web site

Wednesday July 6thDancing in the street and musicin its two pubs & elsewhere

Email: [email protected]: www.stalbansfolkfestival.co.ukEnquiries: 01727 852111/ 833028

Saturday June 18th

Wednesday July 6th

St Albans Folk Festival

St Michael’s Street Folk Evening

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We wish Charles all the best with his fascinating endeavour and will keep in touch with him for regular updates...

Clive

If you enjoy a lively barn dance,

you'll find Friday Folk is a great way

to meet like-minded people and

have fun. Newcomers are

always welcome. And there's no need to bring a partner.

Meeting Fridays from 7:45 to 10:00 pm at The Church Hall, Marlborough Road,

St Albans, AL1 3XG. www.fridayfolk.org.uk – 01727 856508

Standard Friday admission £3

Spring 2016

8 Jan Bob Barrett and Spring Greens 15 Jan Colin Hume and Friday Folk Band 22 Jan Bob Lilley 29 Jan Mike Bennett 5 Feb Suzanne Farmer 12 Feb David and Rebecca Capron and Friday Folk Band 19 Feb TBA 26 Feb TBA 4 Mar Jane Pfaff and Friday Folk Band 11 Mar Andrea Stodell 18 Mar Spring Greens

25 Mar Closed for Easter

1 Apr New term begins

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a folk magazine reviewing an Early Music show – surely not? well , the link between Early Music (Medieval,

baroque, renaissance, Historically informed... call it what you will?) and good old folk music is extremely close – evident from the number of folk fans, makers and players that i met at this wonderful event.

Held in the beautiful Royal Naval College in greenwich (i travelled there by the river taxi service from Blackfriars – heartily recommended!) this is the Festival’s 14th year. The setting is ideal for such an event, with the sumptuous and historic surroundings perfectly reflecting the atmosphere of the music that is played here during the show.

Over 100 demonstrators and makers were present, with a huge range of both instruments, sheet music and CDs. Every part of the college was utilised – there was even a six part viol consort in the underground bowing alley! (see pic opposite – not something one sees every day...).

Complementing the exhibition (the world’s largest of early musical instruments) was an exciting programme of concerts. i personally attended two – Charlotte Barbour-Condini & Sophie Westbrooke with the Zero gravity Band (fronted by jazz pianist Dave gordon playing a harpsichord, no less!) in St Alfrege’s Church (a few minutes walk from the main site), and the ubiquitous Red Priest presenting their own brand of virtuosic showmanship in the amazing College chapel (probably one of the best venues ever seen for acoustic music).

The 2016 show (due to restoration work to the Painted Hall of the Naval College) will move to the Trinity Laban Conservatoire in the Blackheath Halls – despite this i would heartily recommend the event to anyone interested in both beautiful music and displays of immaculate craftsmanship. Visit www.earlymusicshop.com for more details.

Clive Batkin

ONE OF BExLEy HARPSiCHORD’S iNSTRUMENTS

MAiN BACKgROUND iMAgE:ROOF OF THE PAiNTED HALL ALL PHOTOS By CLiVE BATKiN

iNSTRUMENTS By MARC SOUBEyRAN

ViOL CONSORT iN THE BOWLiNg ALLEy

A ViEW OF THE MAiN ExHiBiTiON HALL

ViOL By JANE JULiER

royal greenwich international Early Music Festival & Exhibitionthursday 12th – Saturday 14th november 2015

On The Morris Page, if you bothered to read it, you will have seen a passing reference to Pagan Morris – a growing sub-culture

within the world of Morris dancing.

For years revisionists within Morris have sought to explain to the wider public that Morris probably developed from the late medieval court dances and masques and has nothing to do with pre-Christian Celtic or Saxon fertility rituals. But over the past few years the pagan interpretation has been creeping back – like some spectre that can never be quite laid to rest. Really it is neo-paganism. It is not that the old ways of nature worship or pre-Christian gods have continued - it is a recreation of what people think it might have been like and draws on a wide range of traditions and influences: a sort of sanitised, Disneyfied paganism that has grown out of the New Age movement and 19th Century Romanticism.

The first sign was of people turning up at May Day events in outfits more outlandish than those of the Morris dancers. From being spectators they became participants – scattering petals over the dance area and then reciting prayers, incantations and faux Celtic blessings. The biggest problem though are the Morris sides that reflect neo-pagan influences. Since there is no historical link these sides have created their own. Most end up looking like refugees from a rather bad Hallowe’en party.

But it is not so much the outfit as the dances – or rather the introductions. Dress how you want, people will think it is just being outlandish and part of the spectacle. Dance any pattern you want (even pentagrams) most audiences, including other Morris sides, will probably not notice. Name the dance what you will, few will remember what it was called. No, to make the connection clear to all they insist on giving a long, involved explanation of the dance and the legend it is supposed to represent. Some of these introductions seem to be longer than the dances they precede.

I have nothing against neo-pagans, nor against any other religious group, I just wish they would not impose it on everything they do. I am yet to

see a Roman Catholic or Baptist interpretation of Morris, though there must be Morris dancers belonging to those churches. So how do you spot these cuckoos in the nest? Here is a simple test you can apply to any side you see that you suspect might have neo-pagan tendencies. Simply answer “Yes” or “No” to each question, awarding one point for a “Yes” and nothing for a “No”:

1 Irrespective of the dance style, does the outfit look like a Border Morris side? y / N

2 Is the main colour black or green? (add a bonus point if it is both) y / N

3 Do they wear masks or paint their faces? y / N4 Does the mask/face decoration include

crescent moons, stars, cobwebs, pentagrams or hexagrams? y / N

5 Is the side named after an ancient Egyptian / Celtic / Nordic / Teutonic / Anglo-Saxon god, goddess or other mythical figure(s)? y / N

6 Are any of the dances named after an ancient Egyptian / Celtic / Nordic / Teutonic / Anglo-Saxon god, goddess or other mythical figure(s)? y / N

7 Are any of the dance patterns based on a pentagram or hexagram? y / N

8 Do any of the dances have an introduction that involves more than the name of the dance, the name of the tune, the tradition the dance comes from and, possibly, a one-line (usually very bad) joke? y / N

9 Do any of the dances have an introduction that takes longer than the dance itself? y / N

10 Do any of the dances not have the standard figure / chorus / figure structure? y / N

Any score over six I suggest you reach for your bell, book and candle.

Long Lankin

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the Pagans are Coming . . .

unicorn magazine issue 133

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