Mishra

Mishra

Mishra are a global folk band from the UK gathering international recognition, who draw together roots in UK traditional music with continent-spanning musical textures into a breathtaking 5 piece performance. Performing finely crafted songs with stunning vocals and exhilarating instrumentals, Mishra span eclectic moods; from meditative raag inspired improvisations to high-energy celtic dance tunes underpinned by unstoppable percussive grooves. They draw on training in Indian classical, UK folk, contemporary classical, and a distinctive instrumental palette including santoor, banjo, clarinet, low whistle, double bass, and a vast array of percussion.

Formed by acclaimed folk musicians Kate Griffin and Ford Collier, all members of Mishra met in Sheffield over a shared passion for the creative possibilities of Indian classical music. Their genre defying approach to composition has taken them to festivals around the UK including Celtic Connections and Cambridge Folk Festival, won them a prestigious Danny Kyle award, and brought critical acclaim for their two albums 'Reclaim' and 'The Loft Tapes' including national radio play. 2023 saw them tour the UK in collaboration with Indian classical/sufi singer Deepa Shakthi with support from Arts Council England.

Fascinating stuff... I'm really enjoying Mishra's blend.

Mark Radcliffe, BBC Radio 2

An airborne amalgam of cross-continental pollinations... More servings please.

Tim Cummings, Songlines Magazine

It's impossible to question the compelling tune-making at the heart of Mishra.

Mojo Magazine

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Mishra Unveil a Bold New Chapter in Global-Folk Fusion

Mishra, the trailblazing folk ensemble known for weaving traditional roots with borderless contemporary influences, are stepping into their most adventurous era yet. Renowned for their rich instrumentation, soulful vocals, and genre-defying arrangements, the band continues to expand the boundaries of modern folk with a sound that is both deeply grounded and wildly exploratory.

Built around the striking musical partnership of Kate Griffin (clawhammer banjo, vocals) and Ford Collier (low whistle, mandolin, percussion), Mishra merges transatlantic folk traditions with Indian classical textures, West African rhythms, and a spirit of improvisation that electrifies every performance. Their intricate interplay and unmistakable warmth have drawn acclaim from major UK festivals, folk publications, and listeners around the world.

Following the success of their previous releases—including The Loft Tapes and the critically celebrated Reclaim—Mishra are now entering a period of renewed creation. With new music on the horizon, they're leaning further into the dynamic, high-energy sound that has become their signature while continuing to celebrate the roots traditions that shaped them.

This year sees Mishra taking their cross-cultural folk fusion to the stage in a series of headline shows and festival appearances across the UK. Expect hypnotic grooves, soaring melodies, improvisational fire, and the unmistakable Mishra chemistry that turns every venue into a living, breathing musical landscape.

About Mishra
Mishra is a UK-based global-folk collective blending Appalachian and British folk traditions with Indian classical influences and rhythmic inspirations from around the world. Led by Kate Griffin and Ford Collier, the band is praised for their inventive arrangements, genre-crossing sensibilities, and immersive live performances.