Rachael McShane & The Cartographers

Rachael  McShane is a renowned folk singer, cellist, fiddle and viola player  from the North East of England. She gained fame as an original member of  the award-winning folk big band Bellowhead, touring with them  extensively and making a number of television appearances. The band  recorded five studio albums and, together, they won a staggering total  of eight BBC Folk Awards. Parting ways in 2016, the band returned in  2022 for a series of ecstatically-received performances that reminded  audiences of their unique alchemy, energy and talent.

Away from her Bellowhead fame, Rachael is a much sought-after performer and recording artist. Her debut solo album No Man’s Fool arrived in 2009 via Navigator Records, establishing impressive  credentials that eventually led her to signing with the prestigious  Topic Records, the oldest independent record label in the world. She  also is the leader of The Cartographers, a band that features the  exceptional talents of guitarist Ian Stephenson (Kan, Baltic Crossing),  and melodeon player Julian Sutton (Kathryn Tickell, Sting). Their music  is a powerful blend of traditional folk and contemporary sounds, with  Rachael's stunning voice and instrumental skills leading the line. The  Cartographers have garnered a loyal following thanks to their impressive  live performances and critically acclaimed debut album, When All Is Still (2018, Topic Records).

In  recent years, Rachael has lent her voice to a new adaptation of The  Transports alongside The Young’uns, Faustus, Nancy Kerr, Greg Russell  and Matthew Crampton. The resulting album was a stunning showcase of  Rachael's range as an artist, and is testament to her ability to breathe  new life into old folk songs. With her extensive experience and  formidable talent, Rachael McShane is a sought-after performer and  workshop leader. Rachael McShane & The Cartographers are available  now for concerts and festivals.

“You’re in the presence of something very special…what a voice” BBC Music

**** “A delight” R2 Magazine

**** “Delivered with such rebellious verve and wit – they are a life-affirming joy” Songlines

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