Wayward Jane’s music is a modern interpretation of American Folk and Old Time traditions, blending roots music with fresh, nuanced arrangements and original songs. Their rich sound features fiddle, clawhammer banjo, double bass, guitar, wooden flute and close vocal harmonies.

Wayward’s live shows have a joyful energy, expressing the fine musicianship and playful chemistry of the four long-time friends. Ranging in mood from bouncing, energetic tunes to tender and soulful songs, Wayward Jane tend to leave audiences with a glow in their hearts.

Rachel Petyt (fiddle & vocals)
Dan Abrahams (double bass, guitar, vocals)
Sam Gillespie (vocals, guitar flute)
Michael Starkey (banjo, guitar, vocals)

They have released three albums - “Wayward Jane”, “Old Train”, and “The Flood”. The latter has led to rave reviews, plays in Radio 6 Music, a live performance on BBC Radio 4’s “Loose Ends”, and a slot in Celtic Connections 2025.

"Crossing The Water": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gtZL8f9CmTY&t=12s
"Down The River": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWP9O_2n67s&t=22s

“Wayward Jane demonstrate folk’s willingness to comment on current issues, in this case the multitude of issues prompting global crises. Timeless in its sound, yet palpably current in its narrative, this is a potently contemporary and soulful listen” - Songlines

“Their music glows with authenticity in sound and spirit as it traverses different genres while never losing sight of their own roots” - Folk Radio UK