Music Monthlies: Rob Herron & Conrad Bird

Rob Heron has been touring the world with his band The Tea Pad Orchestra for the past 15 years, throwing flavours of classic country, gypsy-swing, rhythm & blues, and rockabilly into his original songs.

Originally from the Lake District, but based in Newcastle Upon Tyne, he is well-known for his live performances, and dry humour on stage. He and his band have toured with big-name Americana outfits such as Pokey LaFarge, The Dead South, and Sierra Ferrell. 2026 sees Rob recording his first ‘solo’ record since 2008, delving deeper into that lonesome country sound, yodelling cowboy songs, and more intimate song-writing.

Conrad Bird is a rambling rover from North Yorkshire, and after over a decade of fronting the very popular festival act, Holy Moly & The Crackers, he is finally taking it back to the roots, with a brand-new solo EP of poetic folk songs, and Dylan-inspired balladeering. His gravelly voice and his on-stage story-telling result in a very charming stage show.

Together, the Cumbrian cowboy, and the Yorkshire rover are heading off on a country-wide tour, both promoting their new solo releases, and briefly taking a step back from the wild rock & roll circus!