Dan Cassidy (USA) is a supremely versatile violinist, comfortable across a wide range of genres . It’s probably as a folk fiddler that Cassidy is best known whether it be the bluegrass and country styling’s of his native US or the Celtic music of the British Isles. Cassidy’s love affair with Britain was ignited by the music of Shetland fiddler Aly Bain but equally important was a chance encounter with the musical Hickman family from Shrewsbury, England. This was the beginning of a long friendship that in time developed into a musical partnership with the younger James Hickman, a talented guitarist, singer and songwriter. Cassidy now resides in Iceland but remains a frequent visitor to the UK where he and Hickman have built up a loyal following for their entertaining live shows, particularly in Hickman’s native Welsh Marches. James Hickman (UK) was brought up by a musical family who were passionate about not only the traditional music of Britain but also of America, more specifically the genre of Bluegrass. Hickman is therefore a natural cross genre player which is partly why his musical partnership with Cassidy is so successful. The duo is able to swap effortlessly between styles and to expose so easily the connection between the British and American traditions. ‘Severn Street’ is a combination of traditional and original folk and roots from America and Britain. It successfully bridges the gap between the genres and features traditional songs and tunes as well as originals by Hickman and Cassidy. Dan Cassidy's exciting and virtuosic fiddling and James Hickman's driving rhythm guitar and wonderfully unique vocals are captured beautifully as they play their mixture of new and old folk music. “ ‘Severn Street’ has been well worth the wait. The album is a success in its own right but it also makes an excellent souvenir for anybody who has been fortunate enough to see the duo live. Anybody who likes well played, well chosen songs from both the British and American folk traditions should really enjoy these guys.” The Jazz Man www.hickmanandcassidy.co.uk