Churchfitters Bring Unique Sound to Margate

The Churchfitters' music is a testament to their creativity and experimentation, with instruments such as a saucepan dulcimer, a glass harp, and a homemade bass built from scrap metal. Their sound is a blend of traditional folk, rock, jazz, and funk rhythms, making them a truly unique and captivating band. With their energetic live shows, which feature intricate instrumental arrangements and soaring vocal harmonies, they are sure to leave a lasting impression on their audience.

The band's origins date back to 1978, when they were founded by Belfast singer-songwriter Anthony McCartan and Essex multi-instrumentalist Geoff Coombs. Over the years, the band has undergone several lineup changes, with Rosie Short joining soon after its formation, and her brother Chris Short joining in 1993. After Anthony McCartan's death in 2004, Boris Lebret and Topher Loudon joined the group, bringing new energy and ideas to the table. Today, the band is based in Brittany, France, and consists of Rosie Short, Chris Short, and Boris Lebret, with Margaux Scherer joining on percussion and drums for their 2014 album Get Wise.

The Churchfitters have released several albums, including their debut The Parting Glass in 1999, followed by Strange News, This Fine Night, New Tales for Old, Amazing, Sing, and Amongst the Green. Their music has been praised by critics and fans alike, with Mike Harding calling it "totally brilliant and beautiful" and Dave Pegg describing them as "the most musically inventive group I've seen in decades". With their eclectic sound and energetic live shows, the Churchfitters are a band that defies categorization and is sure to appeal to a wide range of audiences.

The Churchfitters will be performing at Rosslyn Court in Margate on Wednesday, 9 December 2026. Tickets are on sale, available with the button beside this article. With their unique sound and captivating live show, this is an event not to be missed. The band's ability to blend traditional folk with rock, jazz, and world music has made them a standout in the folk scene, and their performance in Margate is sure to be an unforgettable experience.