TalkAwhile - The Folk Corporation Forum

OK, so next year is very special and deserves very special artists. May I suggest (in no particular order)

The Kinks / Ray Davies (depending on if they actually DO reform)
The Decemberists (Friday night headliner if RT continues not wanting that spot)
James Taylor
Jethro Tull
Steeleye Span
Pentangle
The Band Of Joy
Flogging Molly
Great Big Sea
Roy Harper
Christy Moore
Elvis Costello
Curved Air
10CC
The Men They Couldn't Hang

(Also posted on Fairport's fb page, more suggestions needed)

Madness would be fab too..

A few more FC-related acts methinks....

And your suggestions are?

Whatever ex-members of FC are currently in at the time.....

Well, I OBVIOUSLY want RT and as many of Fairports ex-members and friends as possible.

Thus JT, JT and BoJ for a start

Oh, and Hellecasters!

SAHB would be fun.

And whatever Maart can manufacture, preferably with more Rock than folk....

Calan, which features Huw Williams' daughter Bethan Rhiannon. She's 21 now, and an excellent muso.

The madness fans wear Fez's, that would cause some confusion at the Bar  ;D

Ozzie's a Brum.... ;D

Kinks
Colvin Quarmby
Bright Eyes
Wilco
Lucinda Williams
Chris & Julie
Oysterband
Steve Earle
Donna The Buffalo (or Tara Nevins)
Cracker/CVB
Cowboy Junkies
The new Tansads
Baby Lemonade
Nils Lofgren
Loudon Wainwright
Justin Currie
Boo
Squeeze

Just for starters ;D

Justin, Boo and Chris Difford would show what an accoustic trio can do on the Crops stage.

Wouldnt they just, the set on BBC4 was wonderful.

I forgot Ian Hunter/Mott!

Anyone else apart from me for Dougie Maclean, perhaps with his band? I saw him at Sidmouth the week before Cropredy where for some bizarre reason, he was only given about 75 minutes as Friday's headline act but what a sublime 75 minutes it was. After the concert, I asked him when he was going to play Cropredy and he said he hasn't been invited yet but implied that he'd rather like to do it. A comparison of his attitude towards an audience and stage crew with that of a certain pre-Fairport solo act this year is undoubtedly the difference between night and day.

How about Show of Hands, or Little Johnny England?  I'll second Oysterband (preferably with June Tabor too), and I'd love to see the Morris On Band again.  Also Jez Lowe, who was great a few years ago.  And since this is a wish list, can we have Home Service back again, because I couldn't do Cropredy this year, and I'd love to see them.  And as we're looking for former FCers, what about Matthews Southern Comfort?  And Swarb with Martin Carthy (or special guesting with Waterson:Carthy)?  

Bellowhead would be a bit of a draw, I would think.  And what about Seth Lakeman?

For the blues spot, how about Christine Collister, Dave Kelly and the Travelling Gentlemen - their live album is pretty good.  And there's a (tenuous) FC connection via RT.

There's a few ideas to add to the others.

To be fair to BDB, he shook the sound man's hand as he left the stage.

You mean the monitor engineer?....

Another vote for Christine Collister & Travelling Gentlemen....for the 'blues' slot.

Hamsters reunion?

I think The Travelling Band were a good example of what the festival should do more of: young British bands not necessarily mainstream folk. This does raise puzzling words like 'alternative' and 'indie' but I think it is in the festival's longer term interests. Example: Cowbois Rhos Botwnnog haven't had much exposure.

I'd also like to see more of what our cousins call Americana (I think Hayseed Dixie fall into that category). Examples: Barton Carroll, Jesse Tyler. I do understand that cost prevents flying artists over to Europe, but maybe someone is over here anyway...?

I'd also like to hear a bit more folk from outside the UK. Another puzzling phrase: 'World Music'.  Too many examples to choose from here...

I would love to see a repeat visit from the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain.  ;D
Eliza Carthy Band
The Imagined Village
Dhol Foundation
Swarb and Carthy
Madness (as mentioned elsewhere)
Spiers and Boden
Lucy Ward

That's it - for now!  ;)

Experience is that this topic just ends up listing every suitable artist available.

There's a much better chance that somebody will take notice if you select one act and carefully explain why they would be received well at Cropredy.

Best of all if they will attract an audience, but not cost much.

Its a bit of fun after coming down from the festival, and it gives you an idea of whose record collection to steal ;D. Shirl, you're pretty safe from me. ;D

Huh! You saucy thing.....

Let's have your list then! Or have I missed it?  ::)

I know it won't happen, because he lives in the US and probably costs too much anyway, but I'd love to see Al Stewart.  FC connection because he was starting up in the same scene as them, and various FC members played on his early albums.  And he is a carrer's worth of great material that he is still mining, as well as still writing good songs.  

He pops over from time to time and is still superb.

Someone of that stature would normally be expected to draw their fans into buying tickets.....The anniversary should mean a sell-out almost regardless of line-up hopefully, so it may mean they look at 2012 line-up with more ease of who they'd like....

My first guess is -

FC Early Years set with all guests - Thursday (to sell those weekend tickets)
RT Band - Friday
FC - Saturday

If RT is going to fly solo, then another band headliner would be needed. Madness would fill the slot, or a Dougie MacLean Band set.

Good Afternoon!
I am a regular reader of this board but never posted so here goes!
I have been to the festival five or six times over the last ten years and have always had a wonderful time. I will definitely be attending next year. Can I put a word in for Furthur! I don't know how realistic this is but I think they would make an excellent Thursday headline act and I know there are a lot of Deadheads on here. There are rumours that they are scheduled to do a European tour next year to mark the 40th anniversary of Europe 72 so if that is true it would theoretically be possible. I appreciate this may strike horror into the hearts of some but I think on the whole they would be well received and I think extra Deadheads attending could add to the atmosphere of the festival!
I would be interested to know what you think but be gentle with me!

Vanessa.

No, what you need for that is Flogging Molly. That would keep St. John's Ambulance busy.
(The Pouges, sort of, but faster and noisier.)

Flogging Molly?no!no! far too genteel.
 Dropkick Murphys would do the trick and alienate half the folkies just like quo, jools and the ubs

My wish list for next year includes;

RT who is reported as booked already
Digance, has apparently booked us again
Joe Brown a national treasure, please invite him back
Ralph McTell, a Cropredy favourite
Skerryvore, fills the celtic spot perfectly
4Square fantastic last time
Little Johnnies, please
Chris & Julie, must be due a return visit.
Spiers & Boden, simply the best folk duo bar none
Peter Knight's Gigspanner, fabulous musical improvisation
Colvin Quarmby, welcome addition to any line-up
Vin Garbutt, would be great to see him back at Cropredy
Martin Barre band, an inspired choice for the heavy rock spot
Madness fab at the festival hall last year
FC a 4 hour set to accommodate former members of the family

 

Agree about last time but saw them as support act earlier this year and now only a duo
one of the original members and (I think) his younger brother
Still very good but not a festival act any more

A brave first post, Vanessa. Bravo & seconded.  ;D

4Square are still very much a 4 piece, as far as I know. Certainly were at Sidmouth, and when I supported them last year. Unfortunately, probably too soon to have them back.



This is probably a given, but The Albion Band have got to play next year, surely?

If FC aren't going for an early years set on the Thursday night, which they might not as they've done it twice before, then Fleet Foxes would certainly sell tickets, and would be excellent too.

Or, if Fleet Foxes are too expensive, then Cocos Lovers would be brilliant a little further down the bill. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Yp2KYiU26o&feature=related

Roger McGuinn for before FC?

Eliza Carthy would probably go down very well, as would Kate Rusby.

Penguin Cafe would provide some wonderful sunny afternoon music.

Bit of a long shot, but the Tsuumi Sound System are a great Scandinavian folk group who need to play in the UK more often. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FyMipZ-1SCI

Leatherat and Dreadzone both deserve returns to the main stage.

Some American stuff would be nice,
Steve Earle
The Avett Brothers
Low Anthem
Dixie Chicks
OCMS
John Prine

A bit of raucous, so to echo Jim, above
The Dropkick Murphys, and
Stiff Little Fingers

And the best Rock and Roll band in the world at the moment,
The Gaslight Anthem

I suppose we had better have some folk, so
The Carrivick Sisters
Nancy Kerr and James Fagan
Stornoway
The Men They Couldn't Hang

This is enormously logical, Colin, but I can understand why people don't offer a detailed rationale for one particular act.  The fact is that availability and cost are the key issues and it would be pointless to offer a carefully constructed argument in favour of Band X when they're committed elsewhere or cost too much.

But just listing bands dioes seem a little pointless - 99% oof them get listed every year.....

Well, one can always dream

FC - the first 20+ years - Thursday evening
Jethro Tull - the connections are many - Friday night
Martin Barre Band - (sort of double pack with Friday night, so should be less costly) - Saturday afternoon
FC - the other 20+ years - Saturday evening
and somewhere in between
Carlos Nunez - ace flute / bag pipe musician

Yep, Chris. listing bands is a bit pointless, so here goes....


The Zombies (for the "oldie" slot, but with a bit of class!)

As well as RT, can we have Teddy and Kamila as well. Mum would be good, too! Maybe Martha Tilston in addition.

The Decemberists (for the unaffordable expensive US band slot). Midlake would be a good alternative.

An African band might make a change, maybe Tamikrest or Tinawiren

Squeeze would be awesome, otherwise either Glenn or Chris or both.

Oh, and RT MUST have a band!

Book Mark Knopfler and I just might make the trip.

I agree that random lists aren't very practical, Chris (though a lot of people find them fun).  However, a lot of the posts here are quite focused - for example, I think it's logical for someone suggest more American country bands and give a list of examples. A carefully thought-out lobby for, say, John Prine, wouldn't be useful unless he happened to be available.

A critically-approved folk band with more than a touch of Americana about them containing award-winning songwriters, with a Fairport connection, an album out, big stage experience and, above all, cheap? I think I know just the people...  ::)

[attachment deleted by admin]

They sound good, but who are the dodgy looking lot in the photo?  :P

Two folkies now in his band too - John McCusker and (bother, forgotten!)

Mark Knopfler AND Richard Thompson. Together. Fight fight!!! :-)

Great idea. It is a reunion, after all

Would love to Stackrige back there again now that they have a new line-up. Also, it's about time Megson did Cropredy. I think I heard Stu say it was the only major Festival on the folk circuit that they haven't played, so it would be a first for a lot of people.

Headliners - Thursday: Eluveitie, Friday: RT with band, Saturday: FC

American - Stacie Collins, Willie Nile, Blue Giant
Swedish - Baskery
UK - LJE, Leatherat, Cara Dillon and/or Kate Rusby

Not going to be greedy that will do for me, so anyone else apart from Madness to fill the rest of the bill.

I suspect mine is too NickReg....  ;D

I'd love to see Madness Thursday, Bellowhead Friday and James Taylor on before and with FC. And after if possible  ::)

Don't mind who else, Ukes would be nice as we missed them last time.

If I had to pick just one though it would be Madness as they are just so good live, proper fun and dancing and stuff.

Apart from Digance, do they ever have the same bands in consecutive years ? If so, i'd love to see The Travelling Band again.
Jethro Tull would be fantastic. I've seen them about 12 times - always great.
I saw Jools Holland's name on the back of a few T shirts. How did he go down when he played ?

And Janis Ian deserves a mention

Abso-bloody-looteleee...

Extremely unlikely - although talking to them on Saturday evening, they'd jump at it!



Like a lead balloon with the regulars - but there were a *lot* of Jules fans there, who, odddly, didn't stay for the remainder of the festival....

With Mutter's departure, Stackridge are now defunct once more. IMHO, of course.

For the pre-Fairport solo spot...


Tift Merritt.

Not sure the SAHB guys are still playing together let alone touring, last time I saw them which was a couple of years ago, Clem who is a good mate of Peggy's was playing but I believe he has since called it a day.
 

You are mistaken my friend, 4Square are most definitely still performing as a foursome, this summer they have been appearing at festivals all over the UK and at the end of this month will be playing at the Agiofest in Corfu,Greece before heading off on a Scandinavia tour in September.

Al Stewart would be great as a headliner, as someone else has already suggested.

For the "difficult" spot before Fairport, might I suggest Neil Hannon (aka The Divine Comedy). Saw him at Reading Town Hall a couple of months back, and not only are his songs great, he is witty and really engages the audience - an excellent solo artist.

For a young folk rock act, Johnny Flynn and his band would be marvellous. I'm not sure why he isn't better known; he comes from the same stable as Mumford and Sons and Noah and the Whale (and the Laura Marling connection is there too). In my opinion, Johnny and his band (The Sussex Wit) are actually better than either of the above. He is a multi-instrumentalist, writes great tunes and lyrics, and, according to a few teenagers I know, is apparently "lush."

Pre-Fairport would be an excellent spot for KT Tunstall.

Love the suggestions, particularly Squeeze and Roger McGuinn (saw him last week).

Alison Krauss & Union Station
The Swell Season (or Glen Hansard solo)

And how about getting Willie Nelson and the Family out there?

You are correct. He stopped playing a couple of years ago and Chris Glen has his own touring bad as well.

It would be just brilliant to see them having a go once again, but I fear it won't happen. But that's no reason to say that, whichever line-up, they wouldn't be a great addition to Cropredy 2012.

I think these are excellent suggestions, especially Divine Comedy ('English Lady of a Certain Age' is a favourite song of mine).

If we're talking FC connections... how about Corvus Corax (who've played on the Excalibur/Anne de Bretagne shows)?

Perhaps Ric could reconvene 2nd Vision with Jon Davie & John Etheridge?

Peggy knows some great Breton musicians - and Dan Ar Braz was in Alan Stivell's band as well as FC.

Hopefully, Jude's album will have seen the light of day (after much trial & tribulation), so why not our Jude (+ band)?

Kangaroo Moon to represent the "hippy tendency" - I don't mean that disparagingly, btw.

And some Scots/Welsh/Irish folkrock... Capercaillie, Taran, Peatbog Faeries, Shooglenifty.

In my dreams, Cuillin/Hardland playing the music of Martyn Bennett...

Glad to see a lot of love for Madness, my choice every year.

Damien Dempsey for pre FC slot
Pogues
LJE
Stornaway
Dan Donnelly
Wonder Stuff
Leatherat

Mike Peters for the pre FC slot on Saturday would be excellent!

His acoustic shows are always amazing, you get to sing along a lot, and he's such a nice bloke as well. :)

Forgot to add: Gandalf Murphy and the Slambovian Circus of Dreams.

Great entertaining band that's I'd love to see at Cropredy. And they'd have a ball as well.

Madness
Dan Donnely
Gandalf Murphy
Colvin Quarmby with special guest from the UFQ on fiddle: though it could be too smiley.
Oysterband
Show of hands
Revanant kings

Mayadness would be most appropriate anyway for 2012  ;D

Now you're talking Vanessa!

Colins right. A thread like this will always become peoples lists of who they would like to see and i could do that!

As it is a special anniversary i suspect it will be based around Fairport connected bands.
It would be nice to see bands who have reaaly starred at Cropredy over the last 10/15 yrs.

On Thursday , i would like 'Fringe Thursday'. Fringe bands who have appeared on the main stage, Say from 4pm to 8pm Eg,  Ahab. Spank the Monkey, Leatherat and (I know they've never been on the main stage) Mary Jane Band. Then a really unexpected headlinerOysterband/Waterboys/ etc .

And i can't resist personal choices, Imagined Village, Peatbog Faeries and Lucy Ward
Now i wish i could afford to promote that line up!

Fringe Thursday? What a brilliant idea!

Thank you! I actually think it has legs

It certainly has hair :)

The Saw Doctors are long overdue a return they would have to headline the friday night as no self respecting act would want to follow them
James would be lovely in the saturday tea time slot(where Horslips played this year)
Madness are a storming festival band, hit after hit after hit in the thursday headline slot and all the grumpy folkies could console themselves by muttering about it not being real ska
there will be 3 or 4 folk acts who i dont know
Digance for the saturday opener
thin lizzy for the oldies/legends slot, none of that lumpen old brummy metal please
45 years so a 4 hour marathon from the chaps with loads of old members chipping in or maybe like the 40 year slot do it over 2 nights

Every year I say this but how about The Albion Band '78 present Rise Up Like The Sun.
Wouldn't be averse to Albion Band...The Next Generation, though...

Sorry Andy can't agree with the defunct comment, Stackridge are just moving into a new era. I love old Mutter and was heart broken when he left the band, but Stackridge remain an incredibly tight band, with new songs as well as performing old favorites with flute parts being filled in by the amazing Mr Glen Tommy.

So I would vote to have them back next year - they would still delight the crowd.

My other choices for 2012 would be Gong (before Daevid Allen retires). I would also love to see The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain particulary as Chris mentioned them in this years programme. .... and to fill the rising young talent spot the amazing Keston Cobblers Club who are delight.

That slot is usually solo, Andy.

Martyn Joseph.. in a slot that doesn't coincide with us all being at the bar (haha).. so I could listen this time!

KT is perfectly happy to play solo, albeit accompanied by her ubiquitous tape loops.

Madness on Thursday
Bellowhead on Friday
Loud and Rich before Fairport on Saturday

Plus The Decemberists in there somewhere.

But I doubt it'll happen!

Agreed, she's fantastic solo.

Given the anniversary, Thea Gilmore singing her Sandy Denny album.

Oh, and Ray Davies.

I just want to hear 20,000 voices since "Waterloo Sunset".

Good call, quite likely I suspect

How about Joan Armatrading? I have always loved her music but never seen her live until recently and she was amazing! She knew how to work an audience and is an excellent guitarist. Also connected to Fairport through Gerry Conway (he played on her albums). Currently Spencer Cozens (ex John Martyn and Pentangle ) is in her band and very good he is to! As an added bonus it is suprising how many of her songs most people know so it would be good for a sing-a-long arms waving in the air style. (if you are into that sort of thing-which I am!)

Hiya,

Just a little list of acts I would love to see at Cropredy (some already mentioned in this forum, some already seen at Cropredy, some you've probably never heard of...).

In no specific order (and fingers crossed that one or two of these get the call):

Ian King (of England)
Justin Currie
Tunng
Willie Nelson
Transglobal Underground
Robin Williamson
Jah Wobble
Here and Now
Van Morrison
Burning Spear
Mark Knopfler
Space Ritual
Richard Thompson
Toots and the Maytals
Kangeroo Moon
Paul Brady
Raghu Dixit
Show of Hands
NITS
British Sea Power
Seun Kuti
Tinariwen
Steve Hillage
Roy Harper
Shooglenifty
Robert Cray
Anoushka Shankar

I suspect Anoushka woulsd get lost on the wind - the last bunch of Indians did! :-)

But otherwise, a good list!

Totally agree and Sunny Afternoon, Lola, Days, Village Green etc, etc, etc

Main point about any headliners is they should be able to engage with the audience and grasp what Cropredy is all about.  Too many have seemed to think it is like walking on to any concert stage (UB40, Quo) when we all know Cropredy is so much more than that.

With that in mind:

• Totally agree with Madness - no better live band around for working an audience
  Roger Daltrey - had some decent reviews on here recently
  Nick Lowe - either solo or preferably with band (now if Rockpile could reform...).  And if he could bring his friend, Mr Cooder!
  As Richard T is coming, how about an electric set and 1000 years of Popular Music?
  If we have to have regggae, make it a proper band like Toots and the Maytals
On the folk side, it is about time Eliza Carthy came back.  It must be ten years since she last was at Cropredy.  Either with band or Imagined Village.  Julie Fowlis to return as well - after playing so well in a deluge last time, she deserves another go in the sunshine! And we haven't yet seen Kate Rusby - it's about time.  Also the Martin Simpson Band.

Don't know if Salsa Celtica are still going, haven't heard of them for a while but they were brilliant at Cornbury a few years ago.

From the States, I would love to see Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes.  Brilliant live. Would also like to see Tomp Paxton - he could do the pre FC slot and then play with them later.  He did record with Peggy and Swarb.

And finally the pipedream - Bruce and the Seeger Sessions Band.

Sorry, but I can't stand Kate Rusby - she's too old to still be twee....

Good idea! Spencer's a great supporter of Cropredy as the Hughes Arms will testify ;)

Charming. She speaks very highly of you, though.

Kate's neither of those things. Old or twee. Just immensely talented and a great live act.

As did Daves Pegg & Mattacks & Jerry Donahue (the LP containing "Love & Affection"). Another sound choice.  :)

Totally agree with you Peter about Kate.

It took me a long time , particularly after a poor gig with the Poozies, but now after Mayfest and Butlins in 2010 I am smitten.

And I am amazed. She doesn't seem consistent with your previously stated "likes"  :)
I happen to be smitten as well.

Has anyone suggested the Sharon Shannon Big Band yet?

Dunno, but it is a great idea.

After Cambridge lastr year, would be a good 'un!

??
How little you know. ;)

I'll put in a vote for Runrig to headline Thursday because:

-  it's their 40th anniversary year
-  they're going to be out and about and available;
-  looking at their normal UK gig size they'lll probably be cheaper than the likes of UB40 and Status Quo;
-  they have that epic "big music" sound that can fill a field;
-  they're a great live band;
-  hearing Loch Lomond over the field at midnight would be something to rival Meet On The Ledge on Saturday.

oh, perleeze!!!

I guess so  :)
I had put you into the "hard" rock camp, but I guess I need to rethink that don't I.

I dont listen to much hard rock. Americana , Folk rock , melodic indie/britpop morelike.

I would love that but the only problem is they would be an hour over curfew.

This is an anniversary year, so I want an old school Folk-Rock bash please.  Nobody who hasn't appeared on stage with Fairport at least a dozen times should be allowed anywhere near the stage.

I want Albions (old and new), Thompsons (ditto) , various shades of Fairports and nothing else.  Except Dreadzone, of course (and some rubbish blues band to play in the background whilst I eat my tea prior to the 5 hour marathon on the Saturday night).  Sorted.

 ;)

A matter of taste Chris, a matter of taste.  You want the Dougie Maclean band, to which my reaction would be slightly stronger.

Ahhh, that was meant to be an enthusiastic yes to Runrig! Sorry...

Ah I see.  Sorry, was the opposite of how I read it, one of the perils of forum posting.

They'd sell tickets too, got a very fanatical fanbase.

Oh yes indeed they would.
Their original manager was very sceptical that they could play in England originally...it took a long time to persuade her that their following extended to London - until I & Johnny 'Jonah' Jones finally got them to The Cricketers pub at The Oval, where they proceeded to pack it out completely! One of my lifetime memories, that!

Good for you and Johnny. Good music knows no boundaries.

Initially I am inclined to agree with you but on reflection I think the joy of Cropredy is in the unexpected.
I think we have all had those 'happenings' when someone we have never heard of have totally blown us away and we discover a new love. I had thought in recent years it had lost some of that magic but on reading reviews of this year I think I might have been mistaken and I regret not going. I hope next year will be just as inspired, in any event I will be there. Remember 'if you get confused just listen to the music play'

Oh Perleeeeeze.  ::)

I love Madness to bits and would love to see them at Cropredy.  However, you would struggle to get Madness knowing how much they charge per gig (and it's extremely painful).  But Thommo has his own Ska Orchestra now as a side-project (I've had some involvement with it) which might be a compromise as it features Thommo and Bedders.  Also Kev Burdett who stood in for Chrissy Boy and Seamus who sort-of replaced Mike Barson.  Plus Steve Turner and Terry Edwards who are part of the Madness brass section (the Violin Monkeys!).  It's a mixture of ska instrumentals and vocals and the odd surprise: the theme to Mission Impossible played in a ska style.  They are getting more and more polished with each show and I think they'd be very keen.  

I'd love to see ColvinQuarmby back as they did a storming set and were extremely popular.  In fact I wonder if the organisers would consider getting back some of the "strongest" acts from recent years to support the parties.  It's a shame that the Family Mahone are no longer in operation (as Ma loves them to bits!).  Needs to be acts that will definitely carry up the field.

Feast of Fiddles (okay they played very recently) has current and ex-Fairporter's in the line-up so, if you were looking for a FC-related gig then that might work.  What about the new incarnation of The Albion Band with the talented youngsters?  Maybe we'll be cheering them all on in 45 years time?

Just my thoughts anyway...

More expensive than the Quo?

My dream wish-list, not very realistic but never mind  ::)

CovinQuarmby
Red Shoes
Mark Knopfler
Boo Herwerdine (SOLO!)
Nanci Griffith
Iris Dement
Christy Moore
John Prine
Great Big Sea
Eric Bibb

Eric Bibb ! Now that's a good idea, Zoe  :) The man oozes class !

Total agreement from me

DaveP [;-)

Works for me :)

I would guess that they would be round about the same price.  I know I've mentioned Madness at Cropredy to Peggy and to Madness themselves but nothing seems to have come of it yet.  Also there are a few Madness fans who would come for that band alone and then not bother with the rest of the festival.  Trust me on this - I've encountered them!  Barge their way to the front about 5 minutes before the band comes on stage and then vanish as soon as the band leave the stage after Night Boat to Cairo. :( :(

I know, Madstock 92 was a good example of that. Least it gave me a good view for Ian Dury though.  8)

This lot are probably worth a try for next year :

http://www.celticpinkfloyd.com/

... suitably retitled "Narrowboat to Claydon" just for the occasion!  [;-)

Andy's list (above) would be just about perfect for me. Any chance of squeezing Steve Earle in too?

Oh yes please!

ive said it before and ill bore you all silly by again suggesting
CHEAP TRICK

Oh yes ! The mighty Trick !

It really is time for Judy to have a full set on the Cropredy stage.

Whether the album is out by then or not.

The Ms Dyble for Cropredy campaign starts here, folks !

THE RESIDENTS, at least as interval "music." And of course the annual request for Dave Alvin and/or Jorma and Jack.
Has a zydeco act ever made an appearance at Cropredy, I suspect not. Terrance Simien and the Mallet Playboys would be a sparkling choice.
And while it veers ever so close to the forbidden world of jazz music I do declare most folks would really enjoy Lavay Smith and the Red Hot Skillet Lickers, real cool lady and her convivial crew out of San Francircus. Some of them menfolk might get into trouble for sheer surrender to her lascivious treats. I think I posted her likeness here a couple years back. And her band do burn.
http://www.lavaysmith.com/Lavay_Smith_%26_Her_Red_Hot_Skillet_Lickers.html  

Wow, I wish you ran the selection committee, my friend. I would love to see The Residents leading a morris dance.

Seriously, I think zydeco or cajun would be a great place to go, and Dave Alvin is a terrific suggestion. I'm sure Jorma K would get a great reception too, though I confess I've heard very little since Hot Tuna days.

I have never heard of Ms Smith but she too sounds splendid.

Le Rue played their turbocharged cajun years (and years) ago.

Couple more suggestions - JuJu (Justin Adams & Juldeh Camara) and any Mustaphas any.

Reading back through the thread - if Gong were to play, I think Jules would head for the Brasenose...  ;)

Well thanks Joe, first time I recall anyone ever responding in my five or six years of roughly these annual suggestions, fully expecting them to be ignored, oh that Jethro Tull guy, what does he know.
Residents and Morris Dancing, not even something that they have considered yet I suspect, though now that you have mentioned it I will likely be googling it just to be sure.

I'd be quite amazed if the new Albion Band didn't play Cropredy 2012

Great band....although last I knew, they (well, he) was playing weddings (he did a friend of mine's) and pubs.  Sad.

A bit left of field but why not have some standup comedy in the changeover periods between acts. ???

if Blair really is a chip off the old block then it'll be the New, New Albion Dance Band by then

Lol :)

How about Mike Harding - he has been doing a few gigs recently. Could also compere as well

And Jasper Carrott's from the Acock's Green/Solihull area - so maybe Peggy could have a word...

Don't suggest anything I'm going to be really gutted to miss. It clashes with the visit of our twin towns to Filton next year and (regrettably) I just can't let the people into my house and push off to Cropredy for the time they're here. If they'd gone with either of the dates we suggested to start with I'd be fine.  

Now that I've been, I can join these threads!

Ditto, Great Big Sea
Runrig or Donnie Munro
Hot Club of Cowtown
Carolina Chocolate Drops
Imelda May
Altan

Just a few that sprang to mind

Hi Robert

Hot Club of Cowtown are coming to our local theatre in October, I'll check them out

ronnie

Doubt you will be disappointed Ronnie-they can really storm it up and do a nice old standard by the same token.

They're well worth the time & money!

They sound like a must see then!

We've had quite a few American acts through Stirling including Uncle Earle, The Wilders, Special Ed, The Chocolate Drops are some that I've seen and if they are of a similar standard they'll be great. Thanks for the recommendation

ronnie

Henry's Funeral Shoes. Slip these terrific boys from the valleys into a quiet slot and wake up the festival.

Mike McGoldrick

I think the great cajun band.. Beausoliel would be a great fit for Cropredy.

Yes to Beausoleil... and, having heard his album over the weekend... Raghu Dixit.

Ale Möller Band - World music based in Sweden
Kebnekajse - Swedish folkrock, mainly instrumental, with some African flavour

if the full Madness experience is a wee bit rich, howzabout this lot guys and gels
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mZQFXXVE9uE&feature=related
2/7ths of the original line up with a smattering of top musos, they would go down a storm

Do this every year, never quite sure if any suggestions are taken on board....maybe Peggy takes a look sometimes!
Show of Hands
RT band - Friday Headliners (hopefully booked)
Leatherat
Eluveitie - (Go on give the Metalheads some music)
Ray Davies
James Taylor
Mark Knopfler
Kate Rusby

Eluveitie - top suggestion. My boy will be at the front of the queue for tickets. :) Having said that, could be a bit heavy for the Cropredy audience. Still, an interesting idea.

Limehouse Lizzie - one of the best Thin Lizzie tribute acts on the circuits. Shut your eyes and it's them.

Likewise Australian Pink Floyd. Friday afternoon Wish You Were Here....

No tributes, ta! Other than fc related..get the real deal!

Clearly impossible in both the cases quoted, so I don't see a problem with a tribute band.

We have The Dylan Project often enough...

Agree, no tribute acts needed, other than The Dylan Project.

If we want some heavy rock, then go for the real thing, and book Faith No More if they are touring next summer.

I seem to recall The Muffin Men going down rather well, twice :)

Ok then, no tribute acts except The Muffin Men and The Dylan Project. But that is it, right!  ::)

Aussie Floyd are great. I have seen them at an outdoor gig and they are very good at what they do. Late afternoon feel good music. I too have no problem with the occasional tribute act provided they are in the right slot and are good, which these are.

to offset the nostalgia bands:
manran
peatbogs
ray la montagne
fleet foxes
emily smith
kate walsh

I think a lot of people enjoyed Legend too.  ::)

I'd love to see the Aussie Pink Floyd Show at Cropredy, but I can't help but think that the practicalities might be difficult. They have all their lighting and lazers, as well as their own round screen, which would probably be a lot of hassle to set up and take down again.

Wouldn't having well known non folk / folk rock bands increase the number of 'non desirables' at Cropredy ? Many fans of other bands may have little or no interest in folk music and could become disruptive, especially after alcohol.
I think Cropredy should stick to being folk and folk rock, with the odd spot given to largely unknown bands, such as The Travelling Band

Have Chumbawamba ever played Cropredy ?  They'd be good for a sunny afternoon bounce around.

Thats a more sweeping generalisation than me saying all Stoke supporters know nothing about football. ;D

I would say that a large minority of Cropredy goers dont like a lot of folk music.

its not a folk festival, never has been

Not true, Jim - just look at the early line-ups!

Hasn't been a folk festival this century.

Oh ******g *yawn* again.
If you don't like cropredy, don't go and leave it for the people who have a great time.
If you want a concerto go to the theatre.
I agree with bridge on limehouse lizzy. Tull and 'zep' again would be ace. I also think madness would go down a storm.
And fleet foxes. And seth again. And rush. Then why not push the boundaries and have the imagined village headline one night with solo spots from all major players, then freeborn john the other night with solo spots from all the major players.
Afternoons for more peaceful stuff such as cara, kate, blah blah in a good way.
I am *so* tired of hearing people ******g complain about cropredy. You don't like it? Don't go. Your dog doesn't like it? Don't take your dog. Your little pEeps spoil your enjoyment? Leave them with grandma. The weather doesn't suit you? Bring better clothing. People are too loud? Bring ear plugs. Still not happy? Stay at home!
(Sorry colin)

Not with 'Folk Festival' in it's name, no.

But I challenge anyone not to go & check the line-ups on Expletive DElighted, and convince anyone here that the early line-ups were a folk festival in everything but name....

Blimey! :D  Pretty much what Abby said.  It ain't broke, don't try & 'fix' it.  Anyway, it's in damned fine hands and long may it be so.

I agree. But we have to have the tribute bands debate etc... every year, it's a tradition!! Bit like moaning about sprouts at Christmas. In both cases, you either love them or hate them but they aren't going to harm you!

I really appreciate a good tribute band, and I've seen some very good ones. A bad one,however is painful, and I've seen more bad than good. People here don't seem to categorise The Dylan Project as a tribute - we both think theyare ace! The hamsters on the other hand....

have split up.....or will have done by next year!

RUSH!! Now you've just crossed my line Abby.  ;D

Surely Rush should be booked for the 2112 festival???

Yay, Rush for 2012 (none of us will be here in 2112).
And good news on the hamsters. I had them play in my pub once. Can't think of anything good to say about them. And as my nan always siad - if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all.

An easy solution to that problem. Book some interesting heavy rock bands, but to prevent possible disruptive behaviour, ban alcohol from Cropredy. It is so obvious, I doubt anyone will disagree with me. Will they?  :D

Collstoke-
Please define 'undesirables'.
This can go no further until we know what we are debating about.
I wager that I, my husband, my teenage circus-skilled cropredy veterans and a great deal of our close friends would be, to you, undesirable.
But until we can agree on a definition, we are all going nowhere.
Abby (one of the great unwashed) :)

I know I'm an undesirable. We get told off every year.  :P

Yeah you stink you rowdy drunkard, addie :)

I thought my Nan made that one up!!  ;D

Was she a Lancashire lass too?