Will Pound Band: A Day Will Come
Fri 20 May 2022 | 7.30pm
An uplifting celebration of the fruits of the free movement of European instrumental music. Swedish polska, Bulgarian rachenitsa and Irish jigs never let up the pace.
Acclaimed harmonica and melodeon player Will Pound is embarking on a musical journey across the states of the European Union, to discover and unveil the diversity and common ground of their traditional music and song. From the lively Swedish polska to the upbeat Italian tarantella, the lilt of the Irish jig, to buoyant French bourées, relentless rachenistas from Bulgaria and the rip-roaring Spanish jota – these tunes have travelled, evolved and merged as Europeans have enjoyed freedom of movement and expression, a shining example of the strength and joy in unity.
Together with Polish poet, Bohdan Piasecki, and a live band featuringScots Trad Music Awards Musician Of The Year Jenn Butterworth (Songs Of Separation, Kinnaris Quintet), multi-instrumentalist Jude Rees (Jim Moray, RSC, Pilgrims’ Way), bass player and beatboxer John Parker (Nizlopi) and stand-out fiddle player Patsy Reid (Breabach), join Will and be uplifted by the joyous sounds of the traditions of a continent and hear the stories and hopes of those affected by the politics of division.
‘A flat out genius harmonica player. One of the most outstanding instrumentalists in the country today.’ Mark Radcliffe, BBC Radio 2
‘A ground-breaking work… with an enlightening vision, a kaleidoscopic fresco of our shared cultural roots delivered with spontaneity, passion and mastery… a heartfelt folk anthem to the solidarity and the brotherhood of nations.’ Bright Young Folk
‘The harmonica superstar presents a dizzying set using the folk traditions of all 27 members of the EU. Wildly celebratory, it barely pauses for breath.’ MOJO Magazine
‘One of the most poignant and pivotal releases.’ Folk Radio
‘This salute to pan-European culture from harmonica and melodeon virtuoso Will Pound is a beacon of positivity in these benighted times.’ ★★★★★ The Scotsman
‘A joyous celebration of the music of Europe from a fabulous musician and internationalist.’ Mike Harding
‘The harmonica and melodeon maestro writes a love letter to the EU with this collection of tunes from the member states – a heartfelt celebration and timely reminder of connections that span the continent of Europe; cultural roots bind us closer than politics can.’ ★★★★★ Songlines Magazine
Age guidance: 12+
Running time: 90 mins / plus interval
Listen to: Will Pound in interview with Alan Ritson, Lincoln City Radio.
Broadcast:
Tue 26 Apr, 7pm on the Fine Folk Show on LCR FM 103.6FM.
Thu 05 May, 8pm (repeated Sat 07 May, 7pm) on the Siren Folk Show on Siren Radio 107.3FM.
Listen to: Will Pound in interview with Kirsty Lang on BBC Radio 4 Front Row when the album was released in 2020.
