Devon's Sheelanagig have become something of a west country institution for the past decade with their unique folk music blend.

A quintet with a well-stocked armoury of stringed instruments - guitar, fiddle, double bass - and a bagful of joint-jumping tunes, they will be heading to Penzance in October.

The band puts both groove and stomp into a selection of traditional and original European folk music dating from the medieval times to present day. The fact that they’ve often played with a knowing wink shouldn’t obscure their impeccable technique, virtuoso-standard ability that raises the roof in every place they play.

Formed 12 years ago at Dartington College of Arts in Devon, since they have performed extensively across the UK and Europe playing all sorts of venues from music clubs to theatres and from free street carnivals to major festivals like Beautiful Days, Glastonbury and Womad.

The five members bring a variety of musical backgrounds to the band which adds to the unique flavour of the sound. Violinist Aaron Catlow has been touring most of his life with various acts including medieval troubadours Peascod and Irish revelers Mad Dog Mcrea. Flautist Luke Phillips-Griffiths graduated from the respected folk degree course at the Sage in Gateshead. Drummer John Blakeley's passion lies in Afro beat and Latin and he plays with Bristol super group No Go Stop. Guitarist Kit Hawes performed in Bristol's invisible circus house band. Bassist John Short has a background of rock and jazz and tours the world with fado performer Claudia Aurora.

There are many influences within the band, but what unites everybody is a passion for creating fantastic music that is not only great to listen to, but is also an energetic and entertaining experience when seen live is of the utmost.

Sheelanagig will be performing at The Acorn in Penzance on October 7, for tickets and information go to sheelanagig.co.uk