Fringe festival

Paul R Rogers has been writing and performing his own songs for over 40 years. Developing a unique fingerstyle acoustic guitar style, he has performed in pubs, acoustic and folk clubs and at festivals and has supported acts such as Show of Hands and Martin Carthy. Paul’s solo material has hints across many genres, including Folk, Blues and Country. His songs can take you from Shetland to the stars!

Wild Fenn are an indie-folk band from Devon, fronted by songwriters Luke Engel and Jess Illingworth. Blending intricate harmonies with heartfelt lyrics, their music is inspired by nature, human connection and the moments that shape us. With influences including Gregory Alan Isakov, Nick Drake, Frank Turner and The Lone Bellow, they create songs that are uplifting and grounding. Their 2024 debut EP ‘Lost In Another Song’, was launched with a sold-out gig at Plymouth Gin Distillery. They are working on their second EP and have recently released the first track, which is entitled ‘Wisps in the Willows’.

A rare chance to catch the Cowsville Hummingbirds live, a soulful trio weaving Americana blues vibes with lush, three-part female harmonies that’ll break your heart and soothe your soul. Featuring the spellbinding fiddle of Sam, Debs’ warm guitar tones and Kimmy plucking sweet banjo lines, they blend timeless classics with heartfelt originals. Based on the Dorset/Somerset border, these accomplished musicians — each with rich histories in other bands — come together only occasionally, making each show something truly special. This is a set you won’t want to miss.

Shane Robbins is a solo artist from South Bristol who first performed in public in January 2026 and immediately caught the bug. He writes his own songs, drawing inspiration from artists such as Nick Drake, Elliott Smith and Wilco. Music has always been his life’s constant. Soundtracking every emotion, every event, every high and every low. He truly believes it to be our most powerful weapon, and it is a pleasure to be able to share his music with you.

Wells-based community choir Singing for Joy is led by Maya Love from the celebrated local band Dragonsfly. Their wide repertoire of uplifting songs, four-part harmonies and rhythms from around the world, combined with Maya’s infectious energy, will lift your spirits, move your body and soul, and may even inspire you to join them on Tuesday evenings in Wells!

Since moving from Somerset to Scotland, Priddy Fringe organiser Nicki Davey has discovered the joys of songwriting.  Inspired by the landscape, nature, folk legends and a healthy dollop of dark gothic Americana, her songs and their stories connect the audience with magical places and ancient tales.

Feral Beryl are the beating of the excitingly unique and musically feral hearts of Sue Clare, Gem White and Lucy May. Hard to pigeonhole, but appealing to audiences of all ages and sorts, the Beryls promise to emerge from their musical undergrowths with performances wild with originality, joyfulness, poignancy and energy.

For those who have never heard of Tex Braithwaite (and let’s face it, his own mother didn’t recognise him till his 47th birthday) suffice it to say he is an enigma, even to himself. Tired of endless, some would say pointless, touring with his trusty band and compadres, The Biryani Bros, being betrayed by everyone, including his manager, (Randy Swindler) and his wife (Dolly Doublecream), Tex has decided to re-launch his career. Join Tex and the Biryani Bros as they re-visit the wonderful music of Hank Williams, Bing Crosby, Frankie Lane and other classic country performers of yesteryear!

You might think you’ve heard Mark’s songs somewhere before. His work has been used in TV and movies and covered by other artists, but it is more about his search to give expression to an inner voice – common to all but usually hidden from its owner.  In this regard, some of his work might be considered mystical and transformative, but it is not without humour. One of the professionals whose attention Mark caught is legendary record producer Joe Boyd, who was responsible for the great Nick Drake records. Joe has signed Mark to his publishing company, believing he’s destined to reach a wide audience.

Cathy Judge is a well-known local singer/songwriter with a rich, velvety voice, singing beautifully crafted ballads sung with emotion and passion. Cathy will be accompanied by her long-term musical partner Johnny Francis. Cathy and Johnny have been involved in organising/running musical ventures, open mic nights and many concerts featuring famous musical artists throughout Somerset for many years. Cathy is also a well-known local sculptor.

Originally from South Wales, Bob is well known on the live music and festival circuit for his passionate lyrics and emotional, soaring vocals. One time vocalist for Brian Tatler from New Wave Of Heavy Metal Band (Diamond Head), Bob had a life-changing experience, seeing him turn away from the city lights and retreat to Somerset, returning to his roots as a singer / songwriter. His festival credits include Lakefest, How the Light Gets In,  Sidmouth Fringe, Beacon Festival, and Green Gathering and 2023 saw him performing shows at Glastonbury Festival, including crew and backstage bars.