ACCLAIMED vocalists The Longest Johns will perform an evening of a capella songs and shanties in Burton Bradstock on Friday, January 18.

Artsreach, Dorset’s touring arts charity, have recently launched a brand new season packed full of live music, theatre, dance and more, which sees over seventy performances heading to over fifty villages across the County. Making their Artsreach debut and helping to get the season off to a spirited start are The Longest Johns.

Bristol based, a capella folk group The Longest Johns were born out of a mutual love of traditional folk songs and shanties. After becoming a quintet in 2015, this young band has taken their harmonies to new heights, whilst always retaining just the right mix of quality and hilarity.

Artsreach co-director Yvonne Gallimore said: “We always love to hear about acts our volunteers and audience members have enjoyed, and The Longest Johns were recommended to us by an avid supporter of Artsreach, who saw them performing last year. We are excited to have the opportunity to bring the band to Dorset for two gigs as part of our new spring programme.”

These accomplished vocalists rock maritime songs alongside the more unusual and less traditional folk tunes. Whether performing songs that are hundreds of year old, or their own original creations, the Johns bring a new feel to audiences wherever they go, all with a hearty cheer and a row-ho-ho!

Following the launch of their latest album, Between Wind and Water, back in June, The Longest John’s are on the road and performing a number of gigs this spring.

Catch this lively young group in Burton Bradstock (01308 897421) on Friday, January 18 at 7.30pm. Further information and tickets are also available online at artsreach.co.uk

See alaw-band.com or artsreach.co.uk for more information.