Every now and then a concert comes along that feels less like a gig and more like an experience. A night where every lyric matters, every note tells a story, and the connection between artist and audience becomes something truly special. When Alice Howe & Freebo arrive at Barnoldswick Music & Arts Centre, expect exactly that kind of evening.
Hailed by Americana UK as "the perfect fit," Alice Howe and Freebo have become one of the most captivating acoustic duos performing anywhere in the world today. Their music is a beguiling blend of Americana, country, folk, blues and soul, delivered with warmth, humour, breathtaking musicianship and an authenticity that is becoming increasingly rare.
At the centre of the duo is Alice Howe, winner of Best Female Artist at the International Acoustic Music Awards, a singer-songwriter whose remarkable voice has been earning rave reviews across America and Europe.
"Alice Howe's clear, vibrant voice is both brand new and old and familiar at the same time."
"That voice is a treasure."
"A voice to die for, crystal clear and deeply resonant."
To hear Alice sing is to be completely drawn into the song. There is no artifice, no over-singing, no unnecessary drama—just pure emotional honesty delivered through one of the finest voices currently working in Americana music. Her songwriting combines poetic insight with memorable melodies, creating songs that linger long after the final note has faded.
Her acclaimed album Circumstance, produced by Freebo and recorded at the legendary FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, drew glowing praise from critics around the globe. Americana Highways declared:
"One of 2023's best albums. This isn't just a singer – this is an artist."
Alongside Alice stands a genuine legend of American music.
Freebo is one of those rare musicians whose career reads like a who's who of rock, blues, folk and Americana. Best known for his ten-year stint as bassist with the legendary Bonnie Raitt, his distinctive fretless bass playing has graced recordings and stages alongside an astonishing list of artists including Ringo Starr, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Maria Muldaur, Joe Walsh, John Mayall and Dr. John.
His remarkable journey has taken him from television appearances on Saturday Night Live, The Muppet Show and The Midnight Special to concert stages around the world. Widely regarded as one of the greatest fretless bass players of his generation, Freebo is far more than a sideman. He is an award-winning songwriter, singer and performer in his own right, recognised by the Los Angeles Music Awards as Best Folk Artist and celebrated throughout the Americana community for his soulful musicianship and unforgettable stage presence.
Yet what makes this partnership so special is what happens when these two artists come together.
Since forming their duo in 2017, Alice and Freebo have built a musical relationship that transcends generations. Their performances are built around exquisite harmonies, beautifully crafted songs and an intuitive musical understanding that can only come from years spent sharing stages together.
As Americana UK observed:
"Together, on stage, Howe and Freebo are the perfect fit."
Another reviewer described their live performances as:
"Well-crafted songs, flawless harmonies and tasteful instrumentation."
While audiences across Europe and America continue to fall under their spell, praising the duo for:
"Completely lighting up the stage."
Their latest release, Alice Howe & Freebo Live, became the #1 Most Played Album on the Folk Radio Charts, while also landing in the publication's Top Ten Albums of 2025. It is a fitting recognition for a partnership that has blossomed into one of the most respected acts on today's acoustic music circuit.
Together they perform more than 85 concerts a year across the United States and Europe, captivating audiences with songs rich in humanity, humour, wisdom and soul. Their shows move effortlessly from heartfelt ballads and rootsy Americana to blues-infused grooves and uplifting harmonies, all delivered with a warmth and intimacy that makes every audience feel part of the journey.
And there can be few better places to experience that magic than the intimate surroundings of Barnoldswick Music & Arts Centre.
In a venue renowned for bringing world-class artists into a uniquely personal setting, this promises to be one of those unforgettable nights where every seat feels like the front row. Every nuance of Alice's extraordinary voice, every subtle note from Freebo's legendary fretless bass and every story behind the songs will be experienced exactly as they were intended.
One is a rising star whose voice has been described as "a treasure." The other is a musician whose career stretches through the very heart of American roots music history.
Together they create something genuinely magical.
Alice Howe & Freebo don't simply perform songs — they invite audiences into them.
For lovers of Americana, country, folk, blues and great songwriting, this is not just another concert.
It's an evening to savour. ??
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