Bellowhead was an English contemporary folk band, renowned for their exuberant and unique blending of traditional folk music with diverse elements ranging from classical and jazz to funk and metal. Formed in 2004 by Jon Boden and John Spiers, the ensemble grew to encompass an eleven-member powerhouse, boasting a rich tapestry of instruments including brass, strings, and a squeezebox alongside the more conventional drum and guitar backline. Over their career, Bellowhead translated the raw energy of their live performances into a series of critically acclaimed albums, among which 'Burlesque' and 'Pandemonium – The Essential Bellowhead' represent significant milestones. Their dynamic and theatrical stage presence earned them a fervent fan base and numerous awards, including several from the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.

Bellowhead's journey continued with commendable momentum until their final act in 2016, which they documented in 'Bellowhead Live – The Farewell Tour', a heartfelt goodbye to a decade-plus career that significantly shaped the landscape of modern folk music in the UK. Albums like 'Reassembled' showcased their range from soul-stirring narratives in 'Parson's Farewell' to the more buoyant and raucous tracks like 'Roll The Woodpile Down', illustrating their ability to reinvent and vivify historical tunes for contemporary audiences. Even after their split, the spirit of Bellowhead's music lives on, revered for its eclectic and innovative celebration of folk's rich traditions and unfaltering ability to connect past with present.

Genres

British Folk

Traditional British Folk

Latest Release

Reassembled

Bellowhead

Album - 17 Tracks - Released June 18, 2021