Formed in London in 1978, Blowzabella is a genuinely unique band that makes an inimitable, driving, drone-based wall-of-sound played with a fabulous sense of melody, rhythmic expertise and sheer feeling

They compose their own music which is influenced by English and European traditional folk music and song – a shared culture with ancient roots.

Blowzabella is:

Andy Cutting – diatonic button accordion
Jo Freya – vocals, saxophone, clarinet
Paul James – vocals, bagpipes, saxophone
Benoit Michaud – hurdy-gurdy
David Shepherd – violin
Barn Stradling – bass guitar
Jon Swayne – bagpipes, saxophone

Many of their tunes are “standards” in the modern British/European folk repertoire and are played by people all over the world. Bands across Europe who experiment with folk music often cite Blowzabella as a major influence.

Much loved and respected, there is no one else quite like them.

So we were saddened to learn that they are to  hang up their instruments after their 50th Anniversary.

Here is their recent announcement.

“The band members have decided that the 50th anniversary in 2028 is the right time to disband the group permanently. The band is on top form and they’re playing at festivals and venues this autumn and throughout 2026. They’ll play a small number of gigs and festivals in the UK and Europe in 2027 and 2028 and plan to release a live album in 2027. They send their heartfelt thanks to everyone for their support over the years.”

So why is the group disbanding?

“We’re fortunate to have achieved far more than we ever dreamed was possible and nothing lasts forever. Most bands don’t even last 10 years. Against all the odds, seeing the 50th anniversary on the horizon is extraordinary! No one gets any younger, travel is increasingly expensive, time consuming and bad for the environment, and sometimes you have to just say “enough is enough”. No regrets. We’re all happy with the decision and are determined to enjoy the music for another 3 years. “

Fear not however, there is still time to catch them live.  Here are their dates for the rest of this year:

For further information and ticket links please visit: https://blowzabella.co.uk/live

Featured Image Credit : Al Dean