Multi-instrumentalist/Songwriter
The Often Herd
The Often Herd
The Often Herd are one of the UK's most exciting and inventive bluegrass/americana artists.
Since launching the group just over two years ago, they have released an EP to much praise and acclaim and won 1st place in the European Band Competition at La Roche Bluegrass Festival. They have two UK tours under their belt and have torn up their national bluegrass festival circuit (Didmarton, Crossover Festival, Fire in the Mountain), made a mark in Europe (La Roche, Rotterdam Bluegrass Festival, Foxbarn Picking in Belgium) and hit the UK folk scene with great success (Chippenham Folk Festival, Llanwddyn Folk Weekend, Sedgefield Folk Festival).
With much of the band's 2020 plans put on hold, they are busy working on new material for their next release.
The Often Herd reach beyond what is expected of a bluegrass band, marrying the wistful sunshine harmonies of Southern California with the striking industrial allure of their home in the North East of England. An engaging and dynamic live act, the band are able to pull off their intricately arranged material alongside moments of exciting, spontaneous improvisation. Rupert Hughes (guitar) and Evan Davies (mandolin) are responsible for penning the band’s vibrant and catchy original music. American fiddler Niles Krieger and jazz bassist Sam Quintana contribute deft and dynamic instrumental skills that lift the songs to new heights.