Opening the night is Ruarri Joseph, one of the UK’s most respected modern songwriters. Best known as the frontman of indie favourites William The Conqueror, Joseph has spent the last decade carving out a reputation for emotionally direct, literate songwriting that’s earned praise from MOJO, NME and The Sunday Times. His return to solo performances has been a real moment for fans — stripped-back, deeply personal shows that reconnect with the roots of his craft. These rare solo appearances have sold out around the country, offering a chance to hear his songs as they were first written: voice, guitar, and nothing to hide. Ruarri has kindly offered to open the night in order to bring attention to the two new, talented artists on the bill.
Ruarri on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6DFhvhgICGDEN48jX9UQFY?si=6q1zLltwQDeX212v9bMyqg
Flo Crowe, is a standout from the current wave of Cornish talent. Known for her work with Flo Crowe & The Dilemmas, she brings a warm, expressive songwriting style that sits somewhere between indie-folk and alt-pop. Her band has already featured on BBC Introducing, drawn glowing press, and landed major festival slots — including Boardmasters 2025, sharing the bill with artists like Raye, The Prodigy, Central Cee and Wet Leg. Critics have praised her sound as “bittersweet and enchanting,” with vocals described as “sublimely expressive,” marking her out as a songwriter with both emotional depth and serious crossover potential.
Flo on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7dwwH8aXaOIiQavxfUIkCp?si=dkzXkG_3S2-d8xxQ2muPdg
Closing the night is Matilda Finn Frances, a rapidly emerging songwriter whose rise has been swift and well deserved. Based in Cornwall, Matilda has been quietly building momentum with a set of haunting, beautifully formed songs written while at university. Her voice is instantly arresting — delicate but assured — and her songwriting already shows a maturity beyond her years. Early demos caught the attention of Chrysalis, leading to a record deal, alongside support from Steve Lamacq on BBC 6 Music and Jo Whiley on BBC Radio 2. This is a rare chance to see an artist at the very start of what looks like a significant career. Matilda will be accompanied on her performance by Ruarri Joseph.
Matilda on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0guQkDRh2D4IOB3VjliJ2w?si=LzQ0Va6yQ1234KXslq_Pkw
Independent Venue Week is about spotlighting rooms that shape careers — the places where artists grow, experiment, and connect directly with audiences. This night captures that spirit perfectly. It’s a meeting point between experience and emergence, between songs that have travelled the world and songs that are just beginning their journey.
For fans of thoughtful lyrics, honest performances and discovering artists before the rest of the world catches on, this Singer Songwriter Night is one of Independent Venue Week 2026’s must-see moments.