MUSIC 2024
FRESHLY SQUEEZED
Freshly are an evolution of funk, soul and hip hop hailing from the vibrant South West UK, are a musical force that seamlessly blends infectious rhythms with soulful melodies. With a recently released EP that has captivated audiences far and wide, the band has solidified its status as a rising star in the funk scene.
Known for their electrifying live performances, Freshly Squeezed doesn't just stop at venues and parties; they command festival stages with an undeniable energy that leaves crowds grooving for more. Their sonic prowess has caught the attention of Joss Stone, Craig Charles and BBC Radio, where their tracks have been featured, further cementing their reputation as a must-listen act. Freshly Squeezed is not just a band; it's an experience, a sonic journey that brings the funk to life, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape.
KING DINOSAUR
King Dinosaur are an exciting, 5 piece band consisting of drums (Paul Bullock), double bass (Matt Taylor), piano (Jacob Kodicek), guitar (Alik Peters-Deacon) and vocals and trumpet (Ed Hart).
They play fun, high energy, original tunes to dance to and have been ripping up the south west scene with sell out gigs in some of the area’s best venues and festivals. Their raucous, joyous gigs are highly memorable and this is helped by the fantastic original tunes they play.
The songs have interesting, heartfelt lyrics and there is lots of top class improvised instrumental work during the solos and throughout the songs. The music defies genre and the influences are as diverse as jazz, latin, mariachi, eastern european folk and swing. Melt that lot together, add a little spice, and you have their unique sound that they like to call 'Spaghetti Western Swing'.
ANDY QUICK BAND
Previous headliners at Castlewood 2018, these guys know how to entertain!
Formed in Sept 2016 The Andy Quick Band hit the ground running with a highly original debut Album 'The Way Things Are' recorded at the infamous Middle Farm Studio and packed with big riffs and playful lyricism "...soulful, funky, and bursting with confidence..."
The band’s first single 'Liberation' impressed Songwriting Magazine who crowned it song of the day back in January 2017. Cue a 14 date South of England tour in the spring where the band hit form landing them slots at some of the best UK festivals of the summer including Glastonbury, NASS and Sunrise Celebration. Andy is a multifaceted songwriter and as with Land Of The Giants this new live show has evolved into a fascinating mash up: wild blues over Hip Hop beats, retro funk rock n roll, with sprinklings of bhangra and reggae, wrapped around enveloping lyrics and enormous choruses!
Andy has a unique voice and a knack for a catchy chorus, the band is tight and the hype is growing. The imminent release of new record Diamond Sounds signals a heavier, more confident sound by a band that's found their stride and will no doubt enjoy another raucous year on the road.
BLACKDOWN SAMBA
Blackdown Samba began just over ten years ago, growing from the annual Blackdown Beer and Music Festival. Since then we have developed into a well-established and popular community band, prompting foot shuffling and hip swaying at festivals, carnivals. Starting in the vines, Blackdown Samba will bring their procession through the crowds and into main festival field, culminating in an awesome dance in-front of the mainstage, making it irresistible to join in!
RUSSELL SINCLAIR & THE SMOKIN LOCOS
The first thing you’ll notice if you’ve ever caught a live show involving the full Smoking Locos band is that the lineup changes quite frequently – both the faces behind the instruments and the nature and number of the instruments themselves. That’s partly deliberate and partly due simply to availability of personnel at the time.
The core of The Smokin’ Locos is: Drums, Bass, Saxophone and Harmonica. From time to time additional instruments switched in in if the music benefits from it and at such times you will see the numbers in the band grow for a while. In that way Russel Sinclair keep things fresh and alive by introducing new sounds and people with ideas. Foot-stompin' Blues originals and covers with a vintage flavour,
THE YONDER FOLK
Devon Based duo Yonder Folk is a collaboration between the well-loved New Daze frontwoman Jessy Plum, and former Yes Sir Boss frontman and solo artist Matt Sellors. Both accomplished and popular singers in their own right, the duo have joined forces combining guitar, ukulele, mandolin, kick drum, and their distinctive, yet complimentary, voices.
Yonder Folk play a mix of original songs and eclectic covers of timeless folk-rock, pop, country and blues tracks. Appearing at Castlewood 2022, these guys are always a crowd pleaser.
RUE
Rue, the English songwriter, vocalist, and guitarist, unveils a signature blend of soulful vocals and rhythmic guitar playing, adorned with a captivating jazz essence. She has been described as “a future star” by Dart Music Festival.
Blending a multitude of genres including jazz, rnb, neo-soul and funk, her dynamic single 'Lucid' received outstanding support from leading radio station Jazz FM. Rue draws inspiration from artists old and new, including Hiatus Kaiyote, Maddison Cunningham, Kimbra & Jamiroquai.
ALEX HART
Described by BBC Radio 2 presenter Mark Radcliffe as “the Stevie Nicks of folk”. Following the success of Alex’s debut album, her voice and musicianship caught the eye of legendary Jethro Tull guitarist Martin Barre who asked Alex to be part of his band as a musician vocalist for their European and international tour dates.
Alex is a talented vocalist and an accomplished musician, continually adding new instruments to her armoury.
FUNKY GORDANO
Hailing from Wild West Dorset, Funky Gordano plays an eclectic mix of world music, guaranteed to get your feet moving! Expect funky tunes from Jamaica to Jakarta, from Lisbon to Libreville, from Cuba to Castlewood!
MONEY PENNY
Born & bred in the South Hams, Money Penny have played the Brewery Stage most years at Castlewood Wine Festival. Flo and the band play an array of well-known covers with a mixture of their own compositions. Ranging from George Ezra to George Harrison, they’ll be sure to have you entertained.