Chris Brain is a Yorkshire-based folk singer-songwriter whose work sits firmly in the British pastoral tradition, shaped by close attention to place, memory and emotional nuance. His fourth album, Red Sun Rising (2026), is a quietly powerful collection of songs centred on yearning, restlessness and the desire for change

Rooted in acoustic textures and intimate storytelling, Red Sun Rising feels like a record made in motion: landscapes shifting, seasons turning, inner lives gently unsettled. Brain’s songwriting balances melody and restraint.

A familiar voice on BBC Radio 6 Music and the BBC Radio 2 Folk Show, Chris Brain has toured extensively across the UK and internationally, including a seven-date sold-out tour of Japan. In 2026, he returns with a UK & Ireland tour to accompany the release of Red Sun Rising.

“There are shades of the master Ralph McTell here and I can think of no greater compliment than that, I love It” – Mark Radcliffe, BBC 2 Folk Show

"Yorkshire singer songwriter Brain consistently impresses with his third album” - ★★★★ Daily Express

“Contemporary folk song at its finest” - ★★★★ Songlines Magazine

-- Joe Harvey-Whyte is an award winning pedal steel player, multi-instrumentalist composer & producer specialising in pedal steel, lap steel, dobro and guitar.

Joe's unique approach to these instruments spans a range of genres: from pop, americana and folk to ambient/experimental, art installations and film soundtracks.

Joe has considerable experience on stage and in the studio, including multiple performances at Royal Albert Hall and Glastonbury Festival, sessions at Abbey Road Studio 2, Air Studios, The Church Studios & Rak Studios ​ Aside from his work as a session musician Joe is also a multidisciplinary artist working at the cross section between ambient/experimental music, visual art and environmental sound. His solo work combines the sound of the pedal steel guitar with electronics and field recordings to make works that create a space for deep listening and reflection whilst attempting to translate and subtly amplify the quieter moments of everyday life.

Access Guide and Tickets for Personal Assistants

You can view/download The Glad Cafe's Access Guide here. If you require a ticket for a Personal Assistant/Gig Buddy (at no extra cost), please contact kim@thegladcafe.co.uk.