Overview
Coming from a respected music, dance and theatrical family on the Isle of Wight, Phil Underwood has been playing traditional music for over forty years. His past projects include membership of acclaimed bands, the Creole Brothers and the Anglo/Russian folk band KARA. Phil’s past achievements include playing for The Fishwives, selection for audition for War Horse in London and a stage appearance with musician and comedian Bill Bailey at Wembley Arena. He has also played accordion with the famous Delta Ladies.
He is a leading exponent of the Cajun and Zydeco accordion and folk music on the melodeon and anglo concertina.
Phil is now making a name as a folk singer writing great songs and tunes, spiced up with influences from the Louisiana swamps.
Phil Underwood Denise Dryburgh together are known as DryWood, performing both lively and soulful original and traditional songs.
He also performs as part of Foursheet Shanty Crew with Denise Dryburgh, Keith Kendrick and Sylvia Needham.
Living on the Grand Union canal he can often be seen playing at canal festivals. His exciting 2017 show Canals of Old England features music, poetry and stories from the English canals.
Shantyman, his 2023 musical show is based on the life of Shanty John Short aka Yankee Jack of Watchet, a shanty singer in the great days of the sailing ships and whose songs are among the earliest sea shanties.