“HIDDEN PEOPLE” is an apt title for this long-anticipated new album from husband-and-wife duo Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman. Somewhat covertly, they’ve been lynchpins of the UK’s burgeoning folk-acoustic revival over the last two decades but now, it’s their turn to slip out from the shadows of their siblings and former musical partners to make a big noise in their own right. This bold and superbly crafted album includes eight self-penned songs, one traditional arrangement and a poignant cover version. With Kathryn’s sublime voice and effortless delivery, Sean’s masterly guitar arrangements and the sonic quality of the production, this is one the most eagerly awaited modern folk albums of the year.
The esteem in which they are held is reflected in the list of artists who queued up to make a contribution: Sean’s famous brother Seth Lakeman; the award-winning Irish singer Cara Dillon (who is married to another brother, musician and producer Sam Lakeman); Levellers’ lead singer Mark Chadwick; veteran folk troubadour Dave Burland, singer-songwriter Jim Moray, Megson’s Stu Hanna, Caroline Herring from the USA and Greta Bondesson from Sweden’s sister trio Baskery.
The tracks on “Hidden People” range from Kathryn’s haunting lead vocals, to rousing a cappella harmony, mellow and heart-rending piano ballads, foot-tapping rockabilly beats, tunes with a world-music tinge and full-on folk-rock. Yet the core of the album is good old-fashioned story-telling.
“Their first album in 8 years and well worth the wait…” – Mike Harding
Find out more on their website and become a fan on Facebook and Twitter.
