Old Spot (Rowan Piggott & Joe Danks) burst onto the scene in 2023 with a critically acclaimed debut album and a whirlwind UK tour, quickly establishing themselves as a fresh force in old-time music. Praised for their raw energy and expressive musicianship, the duo lit up stages across UK/EU folk, bluegrass, and old-time festivals.

Now, in 2026, Old Spot continue to push the boundaries of stringband tradition – digging deeper into the roots of old-time while crafting a live show that’s equal parts intimate and electrifying. Their forthcoming album, recorded in the Scottish Borders, captures this evolving sound with fresh material and atmospheric arrangements. Whether trading close harmonies, ripping into a tune, or experimentally reworking a classic, Old Spot captivate audiences with a sound that’s both steeped in tradition and boldly original.

​“Entrancing & hypnotic... music to lose yourself in” – Americana UK

Rowan Piggott

Rowan is a folk fiddler, traditional singer and tune collector who grew up in the foothills of the Burren on the west coast of Ireland, surrounded by traditional music. The author of three successful tunebooks, he is an experienced teacher and has also written articles for several magazines and led workshops at festivals all over the UK. His debut album, Mountscribe, was met with critical acclaim, as was his SONGHIVE folksong project to raise awareness of the current plight of the bees.
​​           Rowan is best known for performing and writing with his folk trio, The Wilderness Yet, and he brings his scholarly passion for different traditions to link Old Time to its European and African roots with his signature 5-string fiddling.

​www.rowanpiggott.com

Joe Danks

Joe is a multi instrumentalist, singer and dancer based in Wirksworth, Derbyshire. Joe released his debut solo album, Seaspeak. in 2021 to critical acclaim and national press coverage. Tracks from the album were featured on BBC Folk Shows across the UK, Wales & Scotland and it was described ‘a sumptuous and adroitly crafted collection’ (FRUK) and ‘an outstanding debut’. Despite being best known in the English folk scene, Joe grew up surrounded by the patchwork of American folk musics played by his parents, and found himself drawn home to these traditions in the confusion of lockdown. Five string banjo became Joe's place of solace and is now the beating heart of Old Spot. His trademark rhythmic intensity and energy is more present than ever.

www.joedanks.com

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​​​“Exceptional talents" – Folk Radio UK