Two much loved Cornwall based bands have re-released albums as digital downloads which are available on the Internet.
While the acts may have disbanded a few years ago, Lordryk and Moondragon remain as popular today as when they first appeared on the Cornish live music scene back in the late 1980s.
Lordryk's self entitled Lordryk' and Moondragon's Dream' are now carried by services such as iTunes, Napster and eMusic. The albums are proving a hit with fans both new and old. Songs like "The Jig", "The Same" and "The Sight" are popular radio playlist features with RTE Radio in Ireland and the Sirius Radio network in America.
It's the fusion of a Celtic heart with rock, dub, gypsy and reggae infusions that made the bands so popular. Their music, combined with friendly banter with the audience, made their reputation as a live act. Fans could always count on a good evening out with plenty of fun, revelry, a welcoming atmosphere and great music.
Moondragon was formed at the end of the 80s by three brothers - Andy, Paul and Tim Ashton. The equally highly talented drummer Richard Austin was the drummer. The quickly became Cornwall's premier band and were soon performing throughout the UK. Notable performances included two appearances at The Glastonbury Festival as well as alternative festivals like White Goddess. The release of the 'Dream' album brought them prominence at home and abroad and also led to supporting name bands such as Hawkwind, Dr & the Medics and Ozric Tentacles.
Lordryk was formed in the early 90s when Moondragon split. The band hit the road with its more acoustic and folk feel and became an instant success, touring in the UK and mainland Europe where it quickly built a huge fan base. Lordryk was asked back to the Loriant Celtic Festival four years in a row - a rare feat as top acts are asked back no more than twice. Lordryk notably supported The Levellers during a tour of Holland. Other career highlights included The Glastonbury Festival and performances at Ashton Park and Carhaisx.
Sadly it all came to an end in 1999 but Moondragon's members are still active on the Cornish live music scene. Andy Ashton is a guitarist in The Shirts and is also busy writing and recording a solo album. Paul Ashton helps run a community in Holland that is both a nightclub and recording studio. Paul has also just launched a new band. Tim Ashton is the charismatic front-person for The Three Daft Monkeys and Rich Austin formed the increasingly successful Hitchcock Rules.
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