Knacker's Yard

Hailing from Victoria, BC in Canada, Knacker’s Yard has been arranging and performing traditional Irish, Scottish, English and original music since 2013. Comprised of Bronwyn Churcher (fiddle, vocals) , Stephen Johnson (accordion, tin whistle, vocals), Jon MacDonald (guitar, vocals), Cody Baresich (mandolin, vocals), and Dexter Simpson (Irish tenor banjo), the group breathes new life into the Celtic ballad genre.

Their playing flows effortlessly from the delicately woven intricacy of song accompaniment to the strong, driving pulse of dance music. With the unique blend of voices and instruments combined with their sympathy with the music’s origin and tradition, you have the exception rather than the rule among folk groups.

The energy of the band’s expansive repertoire pays tribute to, and takes inspiration from, legendary predecessors like The Dubliners, The Pogues, Planxty, The Clancy Brothers, The Chieftains, and The Wolfe Tones. Driving rhythms and finely crafted arrangements, as well as careful attention to slow airs and ballads makes for a listening experience that is both powerful and enduring.