Horsemen of the Apocalypse

The Horsemen of the Apocalypse is an internationally acclaimed, high-octane ensemble whose hypnotic, heady cocktail of musical styles has turned into a whole new genre of music, seen by millions of people worldwide. Influenced by Flamenco, Latin, Jazz and Acoustic Rock music, the Horsemen’s charismatic performances have sold out across the UK and Europe – including twice at Hay Festival.

The group comprises brothers Ben and Jon Salfield on 10-course lutar and flamenco guitar, with bass guitarist Rowan Nightingale and percussionist Simon Stanton.

In the early 1990s, the Salfield brothers toured the UK as “Ramas de la ‘Ud”. After a break of several years, they reformed for a sell-out improvised concert at Plymouth City Museum in 1999. One reviewer described them as a “revelation” – and the idea for their new name came about, based on the Book of Revelations in the New Testament!

Concerts in Europe followed, including sell-out tours of Germany and Poland (their infamous show at a Heavy Metal venue in Warsaw is still talked about in some circles!) plus Żory Festival (which was filmed and used on a DVD by BBC World television).

In 2008, the renowned percussionist Simon Stanton (also a member of Alegria) joined the group; and in February 2016, Rowan Nightingale completed the line-up – bringing a whole new, edgier dimension to the ensemble with his funk and rock influences.

Most of the Horsemen’s performances are abroad, and this series of Cornish dates marks a rare return to the UK for one of Europe’s finest new music ensembles