Steeleye Span has been at the forefront of the folk rock scene for 50+ years and with a new album out this year, they’re showing no signs of slowing. See them in Barnard Castle and Blyth this November.

Steeleye Span’s enduring presence on the British music scene is a testament to their pioneering spirit, musical versatility, and unwavering commitment to traditional folk music. Formed in 1969, they were at the forefront of the electric folk movement, taking traditional ballads and folk tunes and electrifying them with rock instrumentation. This innovative approach, exemplified by their 1974 hit ‘Gaudete’ and the even more commercially successful ‘All Around My Hat’ in 1975, brought traditional British folk music to a mainstream audience, achieving chart success and taking the genre out of the small clubs and onto the world stage. A key factor in their longevity has been their ability to evolve and adapt. While their lineup has changed numerous times over the decades, the band has always maintained a strong core. These personnel shifts, far from being a weakness, have allowed for new musical personalities and influences to be introduced, keeping their sound fresh and dynamic.

Steeleye Span: Wednesday 19 November, The Phoenix Theatre, Blyth, 7.30pm, £30.50, thephoenixtheatre.org.uk; Monday 24 November, The Witham, Barnard Castle, 7.30pm, £32.50, thewitham.org.uk