Different strokes at the Sydney Folk Festival

The Sydney Folk Festival is back this August with an exciting line-up of folk-infused, genre-blending sounds from the best musicians in the country.

And if you think folk music is not for you, think again.

“Most people are amazed when they realise just how many different styles fall under the folk banner,” explains Arts and Event Manager, Musician and Festival Director, Pam Merrigan. “The folk genre takes in a diverse range of music, so whether you like it a little bit trad, a little bit revival or spiced up with modern grooves and catchy hooks there will be plenty to get your folk on ”.

The inaugural Sydney Folk Festival was held in 2019 and was received with a lot of enthusiasm and positive feedback.

“Sydney was overdue its own festival showcasing folk music,” says Merrigan, describing the impetus for creating the festival. “The Sydney Folk Festival wanted to provide an opportunity to bring folk artists together to share their craft and to create opportunities where audiences could immerse themselves in all things folk — maybe even discover a new artist or music that they love.”

Despite being forced into hibernation for the following two years, it returned with a brave face and lots of determination in 2022.  That spirit has carried through to this year, where the festival will field an impressive range of artists in an intimate yet jam-packed program.

“There’s such variety and diversity of styles,” says Merrigan. “A lot of folk is a fusion of different styles, like popular Sydney sextet, Chaika, with their Balkan-infused melding of folk, jazz and classical. Also presenting a fusion of styles is shakuhachi master Riley Lee with Irish harpist Cliona Molins.

“World music is also represented by bands such as Super Rats and Jaga Band. There’s also a good representation of Americana with bands such as Humbuckin’ Pickups and Scroggin, or if you prefer blues, Rory Ellis with chromatic harmonica virtuoso Christian Marsh.”

The Weeping Willows are a Victorian duo who have garnered a wagon full of awards including three Golden Guitars. They produce a hauntingly engaging blend of Bluegrass and Gothic Americana, imbuing their lyrics with beauty and the grotesque without missing a beat.

There’s plenty in the program for those who are after a more local vibe, Merrigan assures.

“If it’s Australiana you’re after there’s trad favourites, The Bushwackers or, the punk folk rock outfit, The Bottlers,” she said. “Then there’s iconic Sydney indigenous duo The Stiff Gins, or WA’s renowned ragtime guitar duo The Paper Collar Pickers.”

“We’re just spoilt for choice. Every artist brings something truly special to the stage and I’d just encourage people to check out the full list of performers on the festival website.”

The 3-day Sydney Folk Festival will run from August 18 to 20 in Surry Hills.

All venues are within walking distance to each other and public transport.

Come and stick your fork into some folk and taste something new. You’ll be surprised.

www.sydneyfolkfestival.com.au