Why Lindisfarne are truly back

Whose idea was it—some may ask—to have the Tyneside folk-rockers back at our festival for the 3rd time in 6 years?

Well… the idea was yours, dear audience.

Lindisfarne’s roof-raising 2023 appearance brought so much praise, and so many requests for a quick return, that when Roots 2025 came around, they were still the first name on many festival supporters’ lips.

Why might that be?

Haven’t most people who want to see Lindisfarne seen them by now?

Haven’t those people who love joining in the lusty choruses to Run For Home, Meet Me On The Corner, Lady Eleanor, etc., done so enough?

Clearly, it’s “no” to both of those.

But it goes far deeper.

That’s because Lindisfarne has long since transcended their alleged “classic era” and has their feet firmly in the 21st century.

The line-up, fronted by Rod Clements—who formed the band back in ’68—attacks the band’s catalogue with a vitality and passion that make even 50-year-old songs feel like they were written last week.

There’s a reconnection to the values and impulses that drove the band’s writing from the get-go.

There’s also a new generation of listeners now, inspired in part by young superstar Sam Fender’s championing of the band and by icons including Elvis Costello and Billy Bragg sharing their lifelong love for Lindisfarne on an acclaimed BBC TV documentary.

And finally, there’s the fact that Lindisfarne makes a fantastic, joyful, life-affirming noise that still lights up a room.

The line-up is completed by Dave Hull Denholm, son-in-law of Alan Hull and a brilliant vocalist/guitarist with a voice to send shivers down any spine, along with Ian Thompson (bassist since 1995), Steve Dagget (who first joined the band in the 80s), and drummer Paul Smith, the most recent addition.

Demand is now higher than ever to see the band. Venues sell out on a regular basis, and Lindisfarne just filled Shepherds Bush Empire—their biggest London show since the 1980s.

So yes, we asked. And they accepted.

As I said, that—festival friends—is all because of you.

Well, OK, I probably didn’t take much persuading.

Lindisfarne Play Nantwich Civic Saturday, May 17 – click here to buy tickets.

Nigel

 

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