Thistle

The Fylde’s leading Irish-based folk band. Formed over twenty five years ago as a session group, they’ve gained a name as a high-energy roots band of five vocalists who combine rich harmonies with a driving fiddle- and banjo-led sound. The lads believe the spirit of Irish music is there to be released in the jigs, reels, polkas and slow airs, combined and spiced with a lively brew of ballads, bluegrass, folk and contemporary celtic rock sounds. They can also provide a contrasting fun-filled ceilidh session with a caller for dancing.

Over their twenty-five-year career they have featured at folk festivals, weddings, wakes, party conferences, on the decks of schooners and even at the switch-on ceremony for Blackpool Illuminations!

The band’s line-up is:- Bernie Brewin (bass guitar, vocals); Mike Evans (banjo, mandolin, vocals); Heath Lavery (fiddle); Mike Hayes (vocals, guitar); Malcolm Shellard (vocals, bodhran, whistle).