John Smith

A celebrated singer-songwriter and virtuoso guitarist, John Smith has made a name for himself with his soulful vocals, intricate guitar work, and deeply personal songwriting. With a career spanning over a decade, he has collaborated with the likes of Lisa Hannigan and Lianne La Havas, bringing his unique brand of folk-blues to audiences worldwide. His live performances are mesmerizing, promising an intimate and moving experience for festival-goers.

Blackbeard’s Tea Party (Ceilidh)

Renowned for their high-energy, electric ceilidhs, Blackbeard’s Tea Party are the ultimate festival band. Mixing traditional folk tunes with rock influences, their raucous performances are packed with infectious rhythms, lively fiddles, and foot-stomping beats. Whether you’re a seasoned ceilidh dancer or a complete beginner, their set will have you spinning and twirling with pure joy.

Miranda Sykes

Best known as the double bassist for Show of Hands, Miranda Sykes is a revered folk musician in her own right. Her solo performances are intimate and heartfelt, showcasing her rich vocals and masterful musicianship. With a deep connection to traditional folk music and a gift for storytelling, her set is sure to be a highlight of the festival.

The Lost Trades

A harmony-driven trio hailing from the West Country, The Lost Trades bring a fresh take on folk. With their seamless vocal harmonies, intricate arrangements, and captivating songwriting, they have quickly gained a dedicated following. Their music is warm, engaging, and packed with storytelling that resonates deeply with audiences.

The Magnificent AKs

This all-male acapella group from Ashton Keynes, the The Magnificent AKs brings an infectious sense of humor and harmony to the stage. With their deep voices, bold performances, and comedic delivery, they celebrate manliness with a twist, providing an entertaining and uplifting musical experience that is bound to leave festival-goers smiling.

Annie Dressner

New York-born but now UK-based, Annie Dressner is an indie-folk singer-songwriter whose confessional lyrics and delicate melodies have won over fans worldwide. With influences ranging from Simon & Garfunkel to First Aid Kit, her music is intimate and heartfelt, offering a beautifully honest performance that will resonate deeply with audiences.

Becky Lawrence

Becky Lawrence is a rising star in the UK country and folk scene, known for her emotive storytelling and stunning vocals. Inspired by artists like Dolly Parton and Kacey Musgraves, her music blends classic country influences with modern folk, delivering songs that are both heartfelt and uplifting.

Lindup Brothers

Trowbridge’s very own avant-garde-arty-indie-rock band! And they’re brothers!

Mixing post-punk with some blues groove, gang chants, and ample mayhem, Lindup Brothers encapsulate everything we love about live music. Unpredictable and loud, the band are notorious for wild sets of angst-laden, riff rock!

Tankus

A true force of nature in the live music world, Tankus brings an explosive mix of rock, funk, and gypsy jazz to the stage. Fronted by the charismatic and energetic Jaz Delorean, the band is known for its theatrical performances, which fuse high-octane energy with a carnival-like atmosphere. Their sound is inspired by everything from classic rock ‘n’ roll and New Orleans jazz to ska and psychedelia, making their shows a vibrant and immersive experience.

With hits like Smiling Makes The Day Go Quicker and Recurring Dream, the band’s reputation has been built on relentless touring and a commitment to delivering unforgettable performances. Whether it’s at Glastonbury, Boomtown, or a packed-out venue anywhere in the world, Tankus the Henge guarantees a spectacle that has audiences dancing, singing, and completely losing themselves in the music.

Bonfire Radicals

Bringing a whirlwind of high-energy folk to the Trowbridge stage, Bonfire Radicals are a Birmingham-based band celebrated for their ability to seamlessly blend traditional folk with world and jazz influences. Their sound is a melting pot of fiery instrumental sections, intricate harmonies, and dynamic arrangements that push the boundaries of the folk genre.

With a lineup featuring clarinet, violin, and electric guitar alongside traditional folk instrumentation, Bonfire Radicals create a sound that is as unpredictable as it is thrilling. Their music carries echoes of Eastern European and Celtic traditions while maintaining a modern, progressive folk spirit. Whether it’s through their foot-stomping rhythms or hypnotic melodies, they guarantee a performance packed with excitement and musical prowess.

Megson

Husband-and-wife duo Megson—comprised of Debs and Stu Hanna—have become one of the most respected acts in the contemporary folk scene. Drawing from their Teesside heritage, the pair crafts original songs that tell compelling stories of working-class life, love, and change. Their music is a delicate yet powerful combination of tight harmonies, inventive arrangements, and heartfelt lyrics.

Megson has received multiple nominations for the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, a testament to their ability to resonate with audiences through their authenticity and musical craftsmanship. Songs like Generation Rent and Working Town have cemented their status as storytellers who bring modern relevance to the traditional folk sound. With every performance, they captivate audiences through their sincerity, humor, and an undeniable chemistry that only a duo like this can achieve.

Ushti Baba

Hailing from Bristol, Ushti Baba is renowned for their hypnotic fusion of trans-European melodies and modern dance rhythms, creating a genre they describe as “acoustic drum and bass folk-rave.” Their sound is a vibrant tapestry woven from beatboxing, double-bass, banjo, guitar, violin, cello, trumpet, and percussion, blending traditional folk elements with contemporary beats to inspire frenzied dancing.

Since their formation in 2013, Ushti Baba has been a staple on the festival circuit, delivering energetic performances that have captivated audiences across the UK and Europe. Their 2019 EP, A Class Issue, showcases their innovative approach to music, featuring tracks like “Pope Leo XIII” and “Ghost Ship” which explore cultural identity and cross-boundary connections.

Tom Jenkins

Hailing from the rolling hills of Wales, Tom Jenkins is a singer-songwriter who beautifully blends alternative rock with folk and country influences. His raw, emotive voice delivers lyrics that explore themes of personal struggle, rural life, and the power of resilience. Tom’s music often feels cinematic, painting vivid pictures of life’s highs and lows through a soundscape that moves effortlessly between tender acoustic moments and anthemic choruses.

His journey from playing in punk bands as a teenager to developing his own unique folk-rock sound has made him a standout name in the UK music scene. Tracks like Magic Mushroom Island and Under the Sun showcase his ability to craft both intimate and expansive songs. Whether performing solo or with a full band, Tom Jenkins brings an emotional depth to his music that resonates deeply with listeners.

Professor Elemental

A true original in the world of music and performance, Professor Elemental is a pioneer of “chap hop”—a quirky and entertaining fusion of hip-hop and steampunk culture. With his trademark Victorian-inspired attire and eccentric sense of humor, he has become an icon of alternative music and storytelling.

Best known for tracks like Fighting Trousers and Cup of Brown Joy, Professor Elemental mixes razor-sharp wit with an undeniable ability to engage an audience. His performances are part music, part comedy, and part immersive theatrical experience, ensuring that no two shows are ever the same. Whether you’re a long-time fan of his whimsical wordplay or discovering him for the first time, his set at Trowbridge Festival 2025 promises to be a highlight.

Technicolour Steam Train

South West based Technicolour Steam Train is a 12-legged juggernaut known for their electrifying blend of ska, funk, and rock. Their performances are characterized by high-energy antics and infectious rhythms that transform any festival into a lively dance floor. Having made a memorable impact at Trowbridge Festival 2023, they are set to return with their captivating live show.

Tracks like Ghost Train exemplify their ability to fuse genres seamlessly, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.

The Leylines

Formed in 2013 in Weston-super-Mare, The Leylines blend folk and punk influences to create a high-energy, violin and guitar-driven sound. Their heartfelt lyrics and dynamic performances have made them festival favourites across the UK. With two studio albums and an EP under their belt, The Leylines are set to bring their foot-stomping revelry to Trowbridge.

Courting Ghosts

Hailing from Bath, Courting Ghosts infuse indie Americana and folk with touches of rock and jazz, placing melody at the core of their compositions. Their debut album, “Falling My Friend,” released in September 2024, garnered critical acclaim for its song writing and production. Audiences can anticipate a captivating blend of acoustic ballads and energetic, rhythm-driven songs.

Alex Francis

London-based musician Alex Francis has been making waves with his soulful voice and heartfelt song writing. His recent singles, “We Beat As One” and “Bleeding Love,” showcase his evolving sound and have resonated with a growing fanbase. With a headline show in London this April, Alex is poised to deliver an unforgettable performance at the festival.

The Lost Notes Trio

Originating from Moseley, Birmingham, The Lost Notes are known for their original acoustic roots music, rich harmonies, and engaging live shows. Their songs, delivered with glorious three-part harmonies, cover a range of themes and have earned them a loyal following on the British Americana and folk circuit. Festival-goers can look forward to a lively and foot-stomping set.

Geoff Cripps & Wynford Jones

Veteran musicians Geoff Cripps and Wynford Jones bring a wealth of experience to the stage. Both were members of the Chartists Folk Rock Band in the 1980s and have continued to collaborate over the years. Their performances blend traditional folk with contemporary influences, promising a set rich in musical heritage and storytelling.