THE STOWES

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 pigeonhole, the group take a variety of influences from bands such as Gaelic Storm, Great Big Sea, We banjo 3 and The Dubliners, just to name a few. By doing so, they seamlessly transcend the boundaries between traditional genres and styles, with those most notable being Cornish music, Celtic trad and nautical songs and shanties. Combine that 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, and still actively work in related fields. Kevin is a boatbuilder and comes from an industrial background, 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 percussion 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.’
The band are currently halfway through recording their 3rd studio album and are excitedly planning to share the results in early 2024.

Reviews
“Fantastic band! Fantastic music! Amazing instrument playing. We’re mesmerised watching the accordionists fingers on the accordion! Fantastic vocals too. Saw them last year in GDSF, so pleased that they were back again this year. Thank you, lads, for a great show!” Kathryn Emery

“These Cornish boys know what they’re doing, and we’re mad for their original tunes and Celtic covers. We highly recommend you check them out on Spotify and don’t miss them when they’re next back at the Silo! Bar Silo – Leading live music venue in Cornwall

“Gathering new fans wherever they go, The Stowes are constantly developing sumptuous harmonies and it’s clear to see why they are now one of the top live bands in Cornwall” Philliegh Folk Club

“Everyone thoroughly enjoyed your music and songs. It’s clear you’re all passionate about what you do but want to have fun with it too, and that’s what it’s all about as far as I’m concerned.”
Mark Bazeley – Dartmoor Folk Festival

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