“A beautifully performed take on Americana… a multi-layered sound that belies their trio status"
RnR Magazine
As those who have been fortunate enough to catch them in full flight will testify, a Jaywalkers show is an exhilarating experience. UK-based they may be but many from the other side of the Atlantic have complimented them on their particularly stylish delivery of this virtuosic brand of Americana. These three outstanding musicians have developed a tight bond, demonstrated through their well-crafted, tasteful arrangements and ability to bounce ideas around the stage. The combination of powerhouse bass, flame-fingered mandolin, blistering fiddle and three-part harmony pack a punch as fiery as Jay’s lead vocals and make a fuller sound than expected from an acoustic trio.
Since reaching the finals of the BBC Young Folk Awards back in 2008, Jaywalkers have toured regularly across the UK and Europe, honing their craft and releasing four albums and one EP to date with a new album in the works for 2024. Mandolin maestro Mike Giverin is also the chief songwriter, and the band’s originals cover themes including the travails of the travelling musician, saving the planet and even tales of being stranded half way up a mountain. All of which stand proudly alongside their clever covers, foot-stomping bluegrass tunes and superb interpretations of old country classics. In Jay Bradberry, the band has a truly sensational lead singer and fiddle player, and double bassist Lucille Williams is one of the best around, breaking out impressive slap bass alongside rock solid timing, taste and tone. Mike also has a thriving YouTube channel sharing his free mandolin lessons – check out his Mando Mike page!
Jaywalkers are a real melting pot of their collective inspirations and the influences of their musical upbringings. This is evident in their live sets which come to life in their use of Country heartbreak and Bluegrass dynamism applied to issues of the modern day and life as a touring band…mostly stuck on the M6.
“Stunning three-part harmonies, soaring fiddles and fearless mandolins … a powerhouse of Americana who can cook up a storm without the need to plug themselves into any cumbersome amplification.”
Country Music Magazine
“Jaywalkers’ musicianship is truly tasty: both deft and impeccable but never soulless, while the players’ togetherness and interplay is mesmerising and attention-grabbing”
Folk Radio UK
“An effortless blend British and American folk traditions to create something arguably greater than either of these genres.”
Acoustic magazine
"Jaywalkers are the real deal... three incredible musicians creating a bluegrass party on stage. There must have been some dark trades with the devil to give Mike Giverin such mastery of the mandolin and Jay Bradberry such skill with fiddle and voice."
FolkOnMonday