High-energy American old-time music is coming to the Isle of Wight as California’s acclaimed string band, the SLO County Stumblers, prepare to take the stage at the Medina Bookshop on Saturday, 11th July 2026.
The intimate Cowes venue will host the four-piece band for an evening of hard-driving fiddle tunes, spirited traditional songs, and humorous storytelling. Strongly influenced by the golden-era string bands of the 1920s and 30s, the group is renowned for an electrifying performance style that routinely turns concert floors into dance floors.
Who are the SLO County Stumblers?
Formed in 2018 on California’s Central Coast, the band features an exceptional lineup of traditional musicians.
The lineup includes fiddler Casy Meikle, guitarist David Baine, banjo player Daniel Bohlman, and bass player Jerry James.
A banjo maker in the rhythm section
Beyond his rhythm duties, Jerry James is also a master craftsman who hand-builds the very open-back banjos that help define the band’s authentic heritage sound.
From Tennessee roots to the Central Coast
What makes this performance particularly special is the deep musical journey behind it. Fiddler Casy Meikle spent years living in Middle Tennessee, fully immersing himself in the roots of Appalachian folk culture.
During his time there, he traveled and performed extensively alongside legendary Southern string bands and the iconic, award-winning Appalachian buckdancer Thomas Maupin. This firsthand education injected a rare, gritty authenticity into Meikle’s playing, which he brought back to California to form the Stumblers.
What the critics are saying
Industry experts have widely praised the band’s unique chemistry. David Bragger of the Old Time Tiki Parlor describes them as “explosive and electrifying,” noting their ability to strike a balance between “scorching fiddle tunes and classic old-time song repertoire.”
Brad Kolodner of Folk Alley adds that the band strikes “the perfect balance of taking the music seriously without taking themselves too seriously.”
Tickets and doors
Doors will open at 6.50 pm, with the music kicking off just after 7pm at Medina Bookshop on Saturday, 11th July 2026.
Tickets are strictly limited to the bookshop’s cozy capacity and are available for £15.
Attendees are welcome to bring their own refreshments for the evening.
News shared by Paul on behalf of Medina Bookshop. Ed
