The Mellstock Band

The Mellstock Band unites Ian Blake on clarinet with Paul Burgess, Flos Headford, and Dave Townsend, the latter three alternating between violin and fiddle except for Townsend’s additional role on serpent. This quartet of folk musicians employs period instruments to recreate an authentic style, functioning in effect as a genuine 18th- or 19th-century counterpart to Steeleye Span. A small number of extra players and a compact vocal group join them to maintain longstanding folk practices and caroling customs through both concerts and recordings. The resulting performances combine energetic vigor with warmly lyrical singing and playing.