The wonderful Black Deer Festival have announced their first headliners, we’ve got all the news below, and it’s more top class talent throughout for when the festival returns from June 19 – 21, 2020!

Somehow, this will only be their third year, which is incredible because it honestly feels like they’ve already been with us forever. If you’ve looking for a festival that finds a perfect balance between music and food, plus contains established and legendary acts alongside fresh, exciting newcomers, well, then this is definitely for you – Read our extensive review here! – and these 14 acts span a wonderfully eclectic flavour of incredible talent from the world of Americana, Folk, Country and beyond.

First up is a South-West exclusive, as Wilco are one of the first major names confirmed. Here you’ll witness Jeff Tweedy and his influential band of Americana pioneers who are set to bring their American roots and remarkable catalogue to Kent’s Eridge Park. Also announced are absolute music legends The Waterboys, who I cannot wait to see for the first-time live (for me!). From 1985’s ‘This Is The Sea’ album with its chart-conquering monster hit ‘The Whole Of The Moon’, to 1988’s seminal, million-selling and influential ‘Fisherman’s Blues’, Mike Scott’s band are sure to be one you cannot miss.

As well as those two, and following two superb sets at 2019’s Black Deer Festival, Canadian folk and bluegrass ensemble The Dead South are returning with their smart storytelling, gritty banjos and guitars. This band stay true to fans, known for their partnerships with ethical ticket sellers and ultimately helping fans fight against the secondary ticket markets. After releasing their third album ‘Sugar & Joy’ in October this year (Read Dan’s review of that one) and extensively touring Europe and the US, the electrifying four-piece are at the ready to put on one of their most captivating performances yet.

Alongside this, there’s also Grammy nominated folk duo The Milk Carton Kids from Eagle Rock, California and Arizonian Courtney Marie Andrews. You can also confirm New York natives The Felice Brothers, Americana duo The Secret Sisters, and UK Blues sensation Jack Broadbent – making his Black Deer debut. Also back by popular demand is Irish Mythen, she was superb this year and is now one of the leading artists on the Canadian folk scene. Her music and songs are enhanced by her talking to the audience with all kinds of stories and one to make the crowd laugh and listen in equal measure.

Madison Violet is a Juno-nominated Canadian music duo composed of singer-songwriters Brenley MacEachern and Lisa MacIsaac, then there’s Juno award-winning contemporary trio The East Pointers who’ll also be in attendance. The last couple of years have seen Midnight Skyracer tearing up the bluegrass and folk scene here in the UK. Consisting of five ladies who show a whole load of charisma, charm and exhilarating vocals, they have toured the UK and Europe extensively, leading them to become one of the first UK bands to gain recognition in the International Bluegrass Music Association’s Momentum Awards with a nomination for Best Band.

Amy Montgomery will also be making a return to Black Deer in 2020 bringing her captivating performance and raw vocals and, finally for the moment, the very much recommended Folk Rock duo Native Harrow will be in attendance from Pennsylvania to put on a soothing yet thrilling set.

There’s so much more to come, we’ll share as we hear it and – in the meantime – buy your tickets now!

www.blackdeerfestival.com