Billy in the Lowground

Billy in the Lowground

Billy in the Lowground form in 1991 under the name the Brew Band. They are based in the West Country in the UK and play a loud, rough folk-rock style that also moves into alt.country and rock. The group do not play covers, preferring to perform their own material.

Style and line-up

The band’s sound includes an Irish influence through fiddle player Ruth Behan. Their approach is described as folk rock in the vein of the Levellers’ Weapon called the Word period rather than the more traditional style associated with Steeleye Span. Their music develops over time rather than staying within a fixed folk framework.

Live work and festivals

Billy in the Lowground play throughout the UK and perform at a wide range of festivals. Their festival appearances include Glastonbury, Ashton Court, Trowbridge Pump, Bath Festival, Respect in the West, Pontardawe International Folk, Larmer Tree and Off the Tracks. They also support artists including John Otway, the Popes, Rock Salt & Nails, Norma Waterson & Martin Carthy, Oysterband, the Wurzels and Fairport Convention.

Reception

The band are noted for a tight, rocky sound that retains traces of Irish and old-time fiddle music while avoiding a polished or traditional folk style.