A Different Thread, the dynamic transatlantic band, fronted by Robert Jackson from Lichfield, UK and Alicia Best from Durham, North Carolina, is set to captivate audiences across the country with their 'Patchwork' tour. They are joined by double bassist, Mike Seal, for a show that promises a unique blend of folk, blues, and Americana that has garnered praise from fans and critics alike.
The story of A Different Thread began with a serendipitous meeting, busking on the streets of Galway, Ireland. Their impromptu harmonies sparked a creative partnership that has flourished over eight years of independent music-making and relentless touring. Known for their hair-raising vocal harmonies, intricate guitar, soulful fiddle, playful harmonica, and Alicia’s distinctive suitcase drum-kit, the duo has forged a minimalist yet powerful sound that resonates deeply with listeners.
Folk Radio UK lauded them as “warm, deep songwriters” with “a strong, independent sound,” a testament to their word-smithery, which delves into themes of change, counter culture, travel, and the parting ways and reuniting that comes with a life on the road.
This tour is not just about music; it's about community. A Different Thread invites audience members to bring a small square of fabric or cloth to contribute to a collaborative piece of art. At the end of the tour, the band will transform these contributions into a unique quilt, symbolising unity, diversity and creativity. Fans who contribute are put into a hat to win the piece.
In a statement, the band shared: “Music weaves our lives together. This patchwork tour celebrates how music can enrich our connections with each other. It also symbolizes our opposition to the fast fashion fabric market. All our shirts are up-cycled fabric and if you bring your own item of clothing to a show, we’ll stencil our design on it for you.”
The 'Patchwork' tour is set to be a celebration of not just music, but the vibrant communities that inspire and sustain it. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience A Different Thread live. The tour kicks off soon, with 24 stops across the country. Catch their acclaimed performance at a venue near you. For a full list of tour dates, and to purchase tickets, visit their website at
www.adifferentthread.com.
A Different Thread - Patchwork Tour UK 2024AUG 1-4 CHEPSTOW, Green Gathering Fest
AUG 08 BATH, Chapel Arts
AUG 10 TIMSBURY, Tangled Blues Fest
AUG 16 BRISTOL, Crofter’s Rights
AUG 17 HAY-ON-WYE, The Globe
AUG 18 BIRMINGHAM, Kitchen Garden
AUG 19 DERBY, Flower Pot
AUG 21 COVENTRY, The LTB
AUG 22 MANCHESTER, Carlton Club
AUG 25 PONTEFRACT, The Bradley Arms
SEP 18 LONDON, What’s Cookin
SEP 21 NEWCASTLE, Belta Blues Dance Fest
SEP 24 DONCASTER, The Crooked Billet
SEP 25 YORK, The Black Swan
SEP 27 SHEFFIELD, Cafe#9
SEP 29 WORCESTER, The Marr’s Bar
SEP 30 BRISTOL, Blue Monday’s
OCT 02 BRISTOL, Folk Tales on The JS
OCT 03 FROME, 23 Bath St.
OCT 05 OSWESTRY, Hermon Arts
OCT 07 HEREFORD, The Left Bank Speakeasy
OCT 10 LIVERPOOL, Kazimier Stockrooms
OCT 13 HULL, The New Adelphi
OCT 18 BRIGHTON/HOVE, The Bee’s Mouth
OCT 20 LONDON, Green Note
OCT 25 LICHFIELD, The Hub St. Mary’s
OCT 26 MANCHESTER, Eccle’s Town Hall
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