In the past decade and more, Birmingham has undergone something of a cultural renaissance. Creative activity in the city is now much more widespread and there’s a host of artists, events and venues in the city which are getting national recognition too.
“There’s loads more happening now than in recent times,” enthuses Rich Batsford. “I’ve gradually […]

Manchester-based prog-folk troupe Starless and Bible Black won over a host of fans with their sumptuous self-titled debut album, and a 7″ single on Static Caravan. Set to appear at Moseley Folk Festival at the end of the month, Cul-de-Sac spoke to band mainman Pete Philipson to find out what to expect.

Few youthful singer-songwriters inspire the kind of awe which has gripped a roomful of folk fans. Having supported the likes of John Martyn, John Renbourn and Davey Graham, it’s safe to say that John Smith has a fine pedigree. Cul-de-Sac caught up with the Devon-born troubadour ahead of his performance at this year’s Moseley Folk […]

There’s something reassuringly comfy about nostalgia. Looking back at the music, TV, books or fashion of our youth may see people all too often donning the rose-tinted specs of delusion, but it remains something of a psychological attraction to revisit memories of bygone eras.

Word of mouth has always been a great tool – nothing gives quite the same glow of satisfaction as recommending one of your favourite records, books or films to a friend, and for the artist in question that increase in units shifted can make a huge difference. That effect has only been enhanced online, and […]

“I’ve been watching the Sopranos, so I might take a leaf out of that about how to run our business,” laughs Lisa Meyer, half of Birmingham-based music and art promoters Capsule, along with Jenny Moore. But away from such mobster-inspired business operations, the duo have forged an impressive reputation away from the mainstream.
Since meeting through […]