What can you say about a band that has everything? One String Loose combine complex, dynamic arrangements with an infectious joie de vivre and jaw-dropping virtuosity, presenting traditional and self-penned tunes in a way that captivates all manner of people; fellow musicians, casual listeners, purists, grandmothers, teenagers, small random children...

Their performances are impressively tight, yet a sense of fun and the ability to throw a curve are never far away. Front man, fiddler and banjo renaissance man Scott has a natural, self-depreciating humour which creates that relaxed, inclusive atmosphere that is the hallmark of any really great live band, and the rapport between Scott and fellow band mates Jack Stewart, Joe Brady, and Baz Barwick draw the audience further into the weird and wonderful world of One String Loose.

One String Loose began as a two piece band seven years ago when Scott (fiddle, banjo) and Jack (bodhran - 2 times All Britain bodhran champion) from Caldicot (now 20 and 15 respectively) came together to play tunes through a local Celtic music and dance group. As this group evolved into the Newport branch of Comhaltas, the widened musical net bought them into contact with Joe(15) from Weston, who impressed them with his extraordinary whistle playing. In 2005, the band played at the Royal Albert Hall ‘Schools Proms’ after winning 2 awards for outstanding performance and best new composition at the National Festival for Youth Music. Mathew ‘Baz’ Barwick (15) became the forth member on bass guitar soon after this.

In the past year, One String Loose have played over 50 shows to audiences around England and Wales as well as in Europe. Some of the highlights include playing the main stage at Gwyl Pontardawe with a reception worthy of the headlining band, playing at Chippenham, Cwlwm Celtaidd and Shepley Folk Festivals and playing to a full house on the ‘Other Stage’ at the Wychwood Festival. In September 2007 One String Loose received an ecstatic reception from thousands of fans when they headlined the Zamek Celtic Festival in Poland. And in December, they played a storming 8 minute set at the South Bank Centre in London after reaching the finals of the BBC Young Folk Awards 2008 – the first Welsh act to do so!

In 2006, One String Loose recorded and self produced their first album, Makin’ Monkeys Funky which is available online and at gigs. They are currently getting ready to record their second album.