The Vanguards are a five-piece traditional bluegrass band based in London. Since 2015, their high lonesome three-part harmonies and instrumental prowess have been bringing audiences a taste of the hard-driving early years of this acoustic offspring of country music. As well as performing masterful interpretations of bluegrass classics, they write and perform wholly original music which evokes the sound and feel of bluegrass music’s pioneers. They released South of the River, their debut full-length recording featuring thirteen all-original compositions, in 2022.

Mandolin / Jack Baker
Guitar / Alex Clarke
Banjo / Chris Lord
Fiddle / Laura Nailor
Bass / Pete Thomas

The future of traditional bluegrass is in great hands with The Vanguards keeping it alive

Lisa Kay Howard-Hughes, host of Bell Buckle Radio’s The Old Home Place and former host of WAMU’s Bluegrass Country

If you’re looking for traditional bluegrass, then look no further. These guys have it all.

Dave Teague, former chairman of the British Bluegrass Music Association

I booked them for a gig in the East Midlands and was knocked out by their performance. Check these guys out when they play anywhere near you.

Colin Silcocks, organiser of String Band Boogie