Fisherman's Friends: Sea Shanties in Bury St. Edmunds

The Fisherman's Friends bring their authentic Cornish sea shanties to Bury St. Edmunds for a night of folk music and humour. Hailing from Port Isaac, this group of fishermen and lifeboatmen have been performing locally since 1995, blending traditional songs of the sea with contemporary folk and a hearty dose of wit. Their performances are a cappella at heart, though studio recordings and live shows now often include simple instrumentation like accordion and guitar.

Attendees can expect a repertoire that includes both shanties and other nautical songs, some fairly lewd, delivered with the group's trademark charm. The current lineup features members like Jeremy Brown, John Lethbridge, and Jon Cleave, who also writes children's books. The band have graced stages at Glastonbury, Cambridge Folk Festival, and Celtic Connections, yet they remain semi-professional, making each appearance a special event.

This concert offers a rare chance to experience the spirit of Cornwall's coast, with songs that celebrate maritime heritage and community. The group's semi-professional status means they tour only in short bursts, typically in November and February or March, so this date is a unique opportunity to hear their blend of shanties and folk.