Catalan Folk Band El Pony Pisador Accuses The Old Time Sailors of Plagiarizing Songs and Arrangements

The Catalan folk group El Pony Pisador has publicly accused the British band The Old Time Sailors of plagiarizing at least six of their songs, including arrangements, instrumental solos, and even live performance dynamics such as dances and audience interactions. According to El Pony Pisador, the British band initially approached them with an offer to perform under their brand, which the Catalans declined. Shortly after, El Pony Pisador discovered nearly identical songs, some with the same names, uploaded to The Old Time Sailors’ Spotify profile, despite the originals being available since 2019 on El Pony Pisador’s account. The British versions appeared in 2025.

The Catalan group emphasizes that while folk melodies are often in the public domain, an artist’s unique identity is defined by their arrangements and creative decisions, which deserve recognition. Despite reaching out for clarification, The Old Time Sailors did not credit El Pony Pisador and eventually blocked them on social media. Examples cited include the song ‘Dolores’, dedicated to the guitarist’s mother, and ‘Lime Scurvy’, whose original recording was allegedly used in promotional material by The Old Time Sailors. The similarities extend to live show elements, with the British band reportedly replicating El Pony Pisador’s stage dances and audience games.

El Pony Pisador is now considering legal action, though they acknowledge the process is slow. They have chosen to make their case public in English to raise awareness within the British folk scene, where they have already received negative feedback about The Old Time Sailors’ professional conduct. Despite the frustration, El Pony Pisador remains focused on their music and grateful for the support from their community.