James Raynard

James Raynard is a young English folk singer, guitarist and fiddle player, based in Yorkshire. His debut album Strange Histories was launched at Cambridge Folk Festival 2005. James is a self-taught musician who discovered folk music in his early twenties via Bob Dylan rather than through the classic route of family upbringing. When James turned his attention to English folk music he soon cultivated a deep and often obsessive fascination. His explorations led him to take up the fiddle and to study Folklore at Sheffield University. As James started to develop as a performer he formed a close relationship with folk hero Martin Carthy, who says, "James Raynard loves music, is inquisitive, passionate and brave. He is willing to take the sort of chances which make music an exciting place in which to work." (Friday evening Cross Keys Marquee, Saturday afternoon Portcullis Club)

James Raynard's website