2025 LINE-UP
BRAD KOLODNER & ALEX LACQUEMENT (USA)
Hailing from the vibrant music scene of Baltimore, Maryland, Brad Kolodner and Alex Lacquement are two of the most dynamic and versatile musicians in the contemporary folk and roots music world. Brad Kolodner is a virtuoso clawhammer banjo player, known for his innovative approach to traditional old-time music. A member of Old-Time, Bluegrass fusion quartet Charm City Junction, Brad also performs in a duo with his father, renowned hammered dulcimer player Ken Kolodner. His musical prowess is matched by his dedication to the folk community, as evidenced by his work as a radio host and founder of several Baltimore music events. Alex Lacquement brings a unique flavour to the upright bass, seamlessly blending jazz, bluegrass, and old-time influences. His rhythmic mastery and melodic sensibility have made him a sought-after collaborator in various musical projects, including Charm City Junction and the Ken and Brad Kolodner duo. Alex's formal training in music education from prestigious institutions shines through in his thoughtful arrangements and compositions. Together, Brad and Alex create a captivating musical synergy that pushes the boundaries of traditional folk music while honouring its roots. Their performances are a testament to the thriving Baltimore folk scene and their own musical ingenuity. Prepare for an evening of foot-stomping tunes, soulful melodies, and the unmistakable chemistry of two masters of their craft.
Brad & Alex will be performing both a duo slot plus a full-band performance at Crossover.
Joining them for the full-band performance is 'Kieran Towers & Charlotte Carrivick', no doubt with other special guests too.
SLOW COUNTY STUMBLERS (USA)
The SLO County Stumblers are an energetic American string band based in California’s Central Coast. The band features fiddler Casy Meikle, guitarist David Baine, banjo player Daniel Bohlman, and Jerry James on bass.
The Stumblers play hard-driving old time fiddle tunes and spirited songs, heavily influenced by the golden-era string bands of the 1920s and 30s. Their performance is filled with humorous stories and banter and is guaranteed to get feet moving across the dance floor.
BLUE WEED (ITL)
Blue Weed is an emerging bluegrass ensemble from Italy, formed by a group of passionate musicians dedicated to both traditional and contemporary bluegrass sounds. The band was established in 2022, drawing inspiration from two historic Italian bluegrass bands, Bluegrass Stuff and Red Wine. Their mission is to create a unique stylistic interpretation of bluegrass, blending influences from its rich history with modern sensibilities.
Musical Style and Influence.
Blue Weed focuses on the classic bluegrass duos of the 1970s and 1980s, particularly artists like Doc & Merle Watson and Tony Rice & Norman Blake. Their repertoire serves as a musical journey through the social history of bluegrass, highlighting its interactions with various American music styles throughout the late 20th century. This approach allows them to not only honor the genre's roots but also to innovate within it.
As they continue to grow and evolve, Blue Weed aims to captivate audiences with their heartfelt interpretations and original compositions, ensuring that the spirit of bluegrass music remains vibrant and relevant in today’s musical landscape
JAYWALKERS
Jaywalkers is a lively UK-based Americana trio that turns every performance into an exhilarating musical adventure! Since dazzling audiences and reaching the finals of the BBC Young Folk Awards in 2008, this trio has been on tour across the UK and Europe, crafting their sound and winning hearts along the way. With Mike Giverin on mandolin and vocals, you can expect some seriously flame-fingered playing that keeps everyone on their toes. Jay Bradberry brings the magic as the lead singer and fiddle player, his sensational voice soaring through every note. And let’s not forget Lucille Williams on double bass—she’s a slap bass queen with rock-solid timing that makes you want to dance! Their setlist is a delightful mix of original songs that tackle everything from the ups and downs of life on the road to saving the planet, peppered with cheeky tales of misadventures. You’ll hear foot-stomping bluegrass tunes alongside clever covers that pay homage to the classics, all wrapped in their signature three-part harmonies. With four albums and one EP under their belts—and a new album brewing for 2025—Jaywalkers are always evolving, blending their diverse influences into a sound that feels fresh yet familiar. Their live shows are bursting with energy, showcasing well-crafted arrangements and spontaneous moments that keep audiences buzzing.If you’re ready for a musical journey that combines modern Americana with a playful nod to tradition, catching Jaywalkers live is an experience you won’t want to miss! Get ready to stomp your feet, sing along, and have a blast!
THE CHARLOTTE CARRIVICK BAND
ARMER & THOROSE
Armer & Thorose is a captivating new bluegrass duo making their festival debut at Crossover this year. Paul Armer, known for his guitar work and emotive song writing, joins forces with Leanne Thorose, whose powerful vocals and mandolin playing have turned heads in the bluegrass scene. This dynamic pairing blends traditional bluegrass roots with contemporary influences, creating a sound that's both authentic and innovative. Their harmonies intertwine seamlessly, with Paul's warm baritone complementing Leanne's rich, soulful tones.
For their Crossover Festival debut, Armer & Thorose are joined by banjo player Chris Lord and a double bass player, expanding their sound and bringing additional depth to their performances.
Audiences can expect a set that ranges from haunting ballads to foot-stomping numbers, all delivered with passion and skill.
OLD SPOT
Rowan Piggott & Joe Danks were introduced in 2021 and bonded over a shared passion for Old-Time Appalachian music. An initial campsite session turned into living room jams, sharing lifts to sessions and ultimately the creation of a new touring duo - Old Spot.
Expect Old-Time Appalachian music made with modern audiences in mind – stomping fiddle tunes and lazy banjo backbeats giving way to close harmony singing. Old Spot sees two musicians from strong traditional backgrounds exploring a shared musical love, creating new music that is bursting with joy and imagination.
THE PITCH HILL BOYS
The Pitch Hill Boys, formerly The Boatswain Brothers & The Pitch Hill Boys, are a dynamic UK bluegrass band. After Oscar Botswain move to America, the band decided to keep the band name 'Pitch Hill Boys. Known for their take on traditiona bluegrass, The Pitch Hill Boys captivate audiences with intricate melodies, soulful harmonies, and masterful instrumentation. Their energetic performances at festivals like Didmarton Bluegrass have cemented their reputation as a great Bluegrass act.
ROCKING HORSE MONEY
Formed on the fourth of July, Rocking Horse Money have a uniquely independent Americana sound. Rock and roller Ollie meets Bluegrassers Laura and John
ED HICKS & HIS HOT COW LICKS
Ed Hicks and the Hot Cow Licks perform Western Swing music featuring sweet country crooning, harmony twin fiddles and hot jazz solos. Western swing (also known as hillbilly jazz) emerged in Texas and the South Western United States and was popular in the 1930s and 40s. The band are Ed Hicks (The Nightcaps, The Savoy Cabbages), Sam Draper (The Woodlanders, Holloman) and Emily Smith (Ragged Out String Band, Firecrackers).
THE WOODLANDERS
The WoodLanders are an emerging folk/bluegrass band from Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire. Formed just before the 2020 lockdown by Beth Hill (vocals, banjo) and Jason Titley (guitar), the band grew with the addition of Andy Guy (upright bass, vocals) and Joe Tozer (mandolin, vocals) and most recently wih Sam Draper (fiddle). After navigating two challenging years, The WoodLanders made their mark in 2024 with the release of their self-titled debut album on February 20th. This 11-track collection showcased their unique blend of traditional and contemporary acoustic sounds, featuring tight harmonies and skilled instrumentation. With their album now available, the band is excited to finally share their music with live audiences, bringing their Gloucestershire-inspired sound to the UK folk and bluegrass scene.
VOX AMERICANA
Vox Americana makes their Crossover Festival debut, bringing their distinctive Alt Americana sound from Leek, Staffordshire to the main stage. Fronted by American singer-songwriter Helen Walford, this talented ensemble crafts a compelling blend of original material and carefully selected covers. Drawing inspiration from icons like Lucinda Williams, Tom Waits, and Gillian Welch, Vox Americana delivers a sound that's both familiar and refreshingly unique. Their music seamlessly fuses elements of folk, country, and rock, creating a rich tapestry of Americana filtered through a British lens. Known for their engaging live performances and ability to connect with audiences, Vox Americana has been steadily building a following across the Midlands. Their Crossover appearance marks an exciting new chapter for the band, as they bring their heartfelt lyrics, skilled instrumentation, and authentic Americana vibe to festival-goers.
Don't miss this opportunity to experience Vox Americana's soulful melodies and genuine approach to Alt Americana – it's sure to be a highlight of this year's Crossover Festival.
HATFUL OF RAIN
Hatful of Rain is a captivating acoustic quartet from Sussex, England, blending English folk with American bluegrass influences. The band is known for their compelling original material and dynamic live performances. Their unique sound, showcasing tight harmonies and instrumental prowess, has earned critical acclaim and comparisons to artists like Kate Rusby and The Wailin' Jennys. With two albums and an EP under their belt, Hatful of Rain offers a fresh take on folk and Americana, making them a must-see act for roots music enthusiasts.
SHAKE THE ROOTS
Shake the Roots is a vibrant band that blends bluegrass, old-time, pop, and original compositions into a unique musical tapestry. Featuring Loraine Baker on double bass, Pete Wakefield on guitar, Bonz Barnes on dobro and banjo, Eleanor Wilkie on fiddle, and Dan Norton on mandolin, the band delivers a dynamic mix of traditional and contemporary sounds. Pete, Loraine and Bonz contributes vocals, creating rich harmonies that complement their instrumental prowess. Known for their energetic performances and eclectic setlists, Shake the Roots breathes new life into classic tunes while crafting original songs that showcase their song writing talent.