PEMBROKESHIRE folk singer Jess Ward is shattering concepts of how the Celtic lever harp is played.

With her debut album 'The Mermaid's Lament' having received critical acclaim in fRoots magazine and air play on BBC Radio Wales, Jess is taking to the road this January to promote her second album of original songs 'Stronger Than You Think', a soulful and heartbreaking compilation that packs a punch.

She will starter her tour at Cardigan’s Cellar Bar on Quay Street on Friday, January 18 (7.30pm).

Jess is joined on tour by double bass player Andrew 'Wal' Coughlan, whose extensive musical background includes touring with folk band 'Fernhill', Welsh singer Cerys Mathews and Shakin' Stevens.

Jess says: "I'm so excited to be taking my music further afield in a live setting.

“This album has been a long time in the making, over a period of massive changes, upheavals and bereavements, so it feels good to finally get it out there.

“It has been wonderful working with Andrew 'Wal' Coughlan at Bridgerow Recording Studios and I'm looking forward to having him on tour with me on this next leg of the journey."

Jess's concert will be followed by more live music and called dancing from popular social dance band 'Triskellion'. Even the most inexperienced will be drawn on to the dance floor with their infectious mix of called twmpath/ceilidh and balfolk.

Tickets £10 available from eventbrite or on the door.