Bagas Fellyon are Cornwall’s gloriously chaotic groove juggernaut, blending infectious Nos Lowen rhythms, soaring melodies and explosive live energy into performances that captivate and move audiences wherever they perform.
Available as a performance band or with experienced dance leaders for a fully immersive Nos Lowen (Cornish for “Happy Night”) dance experience.
“Warning! Bagas Fellyon’s music may cause uncontrollable dancing. Don’t fight it … embrace the Nos Lowen” Borderlands Festival
“Epic start to the festival – definitely a “Happy Night!” Free-flowing, intergenerational fun” – Cornwall Folk Festival
“Always stepping up a gear – going from strength to strength” – Cornish Underground
Bagas Fellyon are bold innovators within the evolving Nos Lowen scene of Cornish traditional music. Emerging from the darkest depths of West Cornwall, the band is reshaping the landscape of Cornish tradition.Their music captures the brooding majesty of the Celtic coastline, the soft shimmer of golden sands and the grit of post industrial decay – weaving these elements into a fresh and vital new vision of Cornwall.
With a line-up featuring drums, bass, fiddle, accordian and hammered dulcimer, Bagas Fellyon craft hypnotic grooves and shifting textures. They blend ancient melodies with modern rhythms to conjure a sound that is alive and complex as Cornwall itself.
Neil McMahon – Fiddle
A fiery fiddler from the depths of Cornwall, Neil brings Cornish music to life with an undeniable flair and mastery. A foot in the past but boldly treading new ground with his innovative style. Neil started out as a guitarist in rock and metal bands and first fell in love with traditional music following a trip to Ireland. On returning home he searched for the Cornish equivalent and found it almost by accident! After being ‘pressed ganged’ into joining Bagas Crowd, a much loved Cornish fiddle group he headed off to study at Newcastle on the Folk and Traditional Music Degree. Since then, there has been no stopping him! Neil brings Cornish music to life with an unsurpassable flair and mastery.
Owen Davies – Accordian
Owen is a multi-talented artist, combining his skills as a songwriter, composer, and accordionist. Hailing from West Penwith, he has delved deep into the world of Cornish folk music, collaborating with local musicians and dancers to immerse himself in the rich traditions. Owen is probably best known for his work with eclectic art-pop trio ‘Owen and the arrowheads’, seamlessly blending folk, Latin, and Parisian Café music influences. In addition he arranged tracks for larger ensemble’s with flair and a sophisticated musicality. Owen elevates the band with his ability to create enchanting melodies and arrangements that captivate audiences and breathe life into every performance.
Kerensa – Hammered Dulcimer
“Kerensa is an assured & devastatingly skilful Hammered Dulcimer player who delivers a performance that is innovative, energetic & confident.” And who would expect anything less since she has learnt from the masters! In her early days, she received expert tuition from the late Jim Couza & Maclaine Colston, both considered by many to be the best players of the Hammered Dulcimer of their generations. She has been immersed in the traditional music scene, both as a solo musician and as part of various lineups for over 25 years, developing her own unique style which is perfectly suited to capturing the driving rhythms and melodies of Cornish Nos Lowen music.
Joshua Barrett – Bass
Joshua discovered his passion for music in late child hood and continued to hone his craft throughout his teenage years. He performed with various rock bands, drawing inspiration from a broad range of genres including punk, metal, rock and disco. Upon moving to Falmouth his musical journey took an exciting turn as he delved into the folk tradition and began exploring instruments such as the mandolin and tenor banjo. Joshua’s new found passion for folk music led to a memorable year as a member of the local folk party band ‘Jonah’s Lift’. He also sang with the Falmouth Fish Sea Shanty Collective. Josh runs a mixed ability traditional folk session at the infamous Moth and Moon in Falmouth. You can find him there every Tuesday! As a member of Bagas Fellyon, he adds a whole new depth to Nos Lowen music with his funky bass style.
Sam Matthews – Drums
Sam is a versatile jazz drummer with a deep appreciation for Latin rhythms and a strong enthusiasm for Celtic music. While jazz is his primary focus, his drumming style incorporates elements from other genres, resulting in a dynamic and rich musical experience. Interacting and collaborating with fellow musicians is Sams passion and he thrives on the creative synergy that arises from shared musical expressions. With 12 years of experience playing in Jazz collectives, rock, funk bands and an art-pop group, Sam is constantly exploring and evolving his craft. With drums as his weapon of choice, Sam’s infectious energy radiates through every beat, driving the rhythm and infusing Nos Lowen music with a vibrant and irresistible groove!
What is Nos Lowen?
“Nos Lowen”, meaning “Happy Night” in Cornish, is Cornwall’s own take on social dancing. More akin to the Breton ‘fest-noz’ than the scottish or irish ‘ceilidh’, a Nos Lowen is all about enjoying live music, simple dances and a welcoming atmosphere..
The dances are easy to learn, with a quick demonstration and friendly dance leaders on hand to guide you, so everyone can join in – whether its your first time or you are a regular. Because the dances don’t require constant calling, the music flows naturally from one tune to the next, creating an infectious energy that keeps the event moving. The result is a joyful celebration where the focus is on dancing, live music and sharing the experience together.
Wehether you’re looking for a dance band for a big festival or event, small community event, wedding or special occassion – Bagas Fellyon have it covered!