contemporary folk

Aranis is a Flemish quintet, playing music across the borders of classical, folk and (post)rock. They have released four full albums: Aranis (2005), Aranis (2007), Songs From Mirage (2009) and RoqueForte (2010). Depending on the project Aranis is working on, they call upon guest musicians to complete the sound. Aranis:
Liesbeth Lambrecht: violin
Marjolein Cools: accordion
Stijn Denys: guitar
Jana Arns: transverse flute
Joris Vanvinckenroye: contrabass & composition

The UK based folk/roots/acoustic band - Bandersnatch have been performing since 2000 although the line-up changed in 2007. Their repertoire ranges from sensitive arrangements of gentle ballads to driving, rhythmical folk rock and blues. Whilst often giving a refreshing edge to established favourites, the band also endeavours to introduce contrasting material from the less frequently explored corners of this particular musical landscape. The warmth and humour that allows them to connect with their audience is not compromised by the discipline that they bring to their performance.

Blackmore's Night is an English Renaissance-inspired medieval folk rock band led by UK guitarist Ritchie Blackmore (electric and acoustic guitars) and Candice Night (lyricist and lead vocals). The origins of the band lie in 1990 when Candice was working at a local New York rock music radio station, and as part of her work first encountered Ritchie (now ex-Deep Purple/Rainbow guitarist), then with Deep Purple, at a soccer game he was playing in. The two became romantically entwined and discovered that they shared a passionate interest in the Renaissance.

Griselda Sanderson is a folk musician and lecturer at Dartington College of Arts, Devon, UK. Gris is a multi-instrumentalist, specialising in the fiddle, organ, calabash and nyckelharpa, the last which features strongly in her album Harpaphonics, released 26 Jan 2009. www.grissanderson.com/nyckelharpa.html
www.myspace.com/nyckelgris