THE 2016 season at Calstock Arts swings into action with the return of Appaloosas, a three piece band from Dartmoor performing music from the Appalachian region of the eastern USA.

The band plays music rooted in traditional folk ballads and tunes taken over by immigrants from the British Isles. This in turn influenced the popular Old-Time music and recordings of the 1920s and 1930s made famous by the likes of The Carter Family and Clarence Ashley.

This will be one of the regular ‘Gallery Bar Specials’ at Calstock Arts Old Chapel venue.

Since forming, the band has recorded two albums — its self-titled debut in 2012 and more recently, Sassafras Tea.

The band has gained a good live reputation around the South West and in 2013 played at the Cornish Bluegrass Festival to critical acclaim.

The band is built around outstanding Appalachian and Old-Time inspired vocals from Eliza Acty – whose voice has been described as ‘stunning … and the bedrock of Appaloosas’.

Peter Acty plays clawhammer banjo and guitar. He has been involved in various musical projects with other artists including Chris Leslie of Fairport Convention and Paul Sartin of Bellowhead resulting in a number of albums being released.

The band is enhanced by the intricate melodies of virtuoso fiddle player Stephen Potter who is very well known on the local circuit and can also claim to have played on a number one hit record in Portugal!

Another great night is guaranteed from this fine trio. There is free entry, an informal atmosphere and all donations will go to the band.

‘Appaloosas don’t just sound wonderful together, they sound distinctive’ — Old Time News.