Preview: Songwriters In Conversation @ Baba Yagas Loft, North Shields

On 16th November, the second (out of four) instalment of Groundbird’s Songwriters in Conversation series brings together folk performers Janice Burns and Jayne Dent for an evening of live performance and discussion at Baba Yagas Loft, North Shields. Hosted by songwriter and academic Richard O’Brien (aka Groundbird), the event explores how traditional folk songs shape contemporary writing.

Janice Burns—known for her work with Jon Doran and RE:VULVA—will showcase original material alongside interpretations of traditional ballads, with tenor guitar and mandolin in hand. Expect songs of shifting seasons, relationships and time’s quiet passing.

Jayne Dent, best known as Me Lost Me and for her work with Bitchfinder General, blends folk, art pop, ambient and noise into a genre-fluid sound built around soaring vocals and atmospheric electronics. Her work has featured at BBC Proms, After Dark Festival and Sage Gateshead, earning her the Paul Hamlyn Foundation Award for Composers.

Each artist will perform a 30-minute set, followed by an onstage Q&A. Doors open at 5pm, with Groundbird opening at 5:15, Janice Burns at 5:30, Jayne Dent at 6:15, and the Q&A from 7pm. Tickets are available here.