Fairport’s Cropredy Convention takes place, as ever, on the second weekend of August. Here is a little introduction to The Salts with our Cropredy 2025 Q&A.
the salts
The Salts are a high‑energy folk‑rock collective from Surrey/Dorking, formed around a love of sea shanties and folk traditions. The current line up Lee Collinson (banjo, guitar), Brian Doran (mandolin, whistle), Jeremy Hart (guitar), Tim Cantrell (double bass), and Richard Nash (drums), all contribute vocals and tight harmonies to their rollicking songs and rowdy folk spirit. For the uninitiated, try out their Brave album from 2018 which managed widespread praise for its polished production, infectious rhythms, and unique takes on classics like Drunken Sailor and Bulgine Run.
The guys join us to work up their own Cropredy spirit, backed by Mike Harding’s testimonial promising “gutsy stuff with a big sound.“
Cropredy is a festival with a long history and iconic status. What sets it apart from other festivals and what does it mean to you to play there?
For us Cropredy is the most revered iconic folk festival that seems to have a unique atmosphere. It has a distinct identity from other festivals from its tradition, independence, diverse line ups and loyal audience. We (as like many others!) have always wanted to play there, it means so much to the band, we are excited and honoured – it’s the pinnacle of the folk world.
What memories do you have of Cropredy or if it’s your first visit, what are you looking forward to?
To experience and absorb the famous atmosphere, playing to a big friendly crowd, getting to see the other acts, meeting up with some old friends & no doubt some new ones!
Given the state of the festival programme in the UK with cut backs and cancellations, what’s your view on the UK festival scene? What do you think it would take to restore it to a former glory?
It seems to have suffered from the pandemic, rising living costs, regulatory burdens and red tape. It’ll probably take more than nostalgia to restore the scene to its former glory. It needs bold cultural policy, grassroots support, and fresh thinking. If done right, it could come back not just stronger, but more equitable, sustainable, and innovative. Investment, subsidies & support for independent festival organisers would be a good start.
Tell us about your plans post-Cropredy. What does the short and long term future hold?
Straight after the show we head into the studio to record a charity record with a Mercury prize nominee singer songwriter/producer. Then rehearsals for some upcoming gigs including Wilton’s Music Hall in London. In between the live shows we plan to record some new material for our next album and releases for 2026.
Tent or caravan – or hotel? Or arrive/play/go home?!
Still undecided – decision probably made on the day!… but we are lucky to currently have the choice of a camper van, stay at friends fairly locally or go home very late!
Fairport’s Cropredy Convention 2025 has officially sold out. There are no official resale channels. You can keep an eye on the Fairport Facebook group here or Twickets, here.
The Salts online: Website / Facebook
Keep up with At The Barrier: Facebook / X / Instagram / Spotify / YouTube