11/06/2012

Hidden People

Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman

The new album from the talented couple of Roberts and Lakeman is released in July 2012 on Navigator Records, and it is a brilliant record. Always one of the most original and enjoyable duo's in the roots world, to say an album from them is 'much anticipated' is something of an understatement. Their talents have been in demand for the past decade as musiciuans, producer and parents to twins so they have certainly had their hands full.

The near decade since they stopped touring and performing regularly as a duo has given them time to absorb a whole new seam of influences. You wouldn't expect anything less than top drawer from these two and this is already sounding like one of the best albums of the year. They have a pretty stunning list of collaborators on the sleeve notes; Seth Lakeman, Cara Dillon, Mark Chadwick, Dave Burland, Jim Moray, Stu Hanna, Caroline Herring and Greta Bondesson.

That list of talent would easily unbalance a lesser product, here they are woven in so you only realise you've heard Jim Moray in the background after a few listens. Kathryn's experience as part of the Cecil Sharp Project that the team behind Shrewsbury Folk Festival seems to have been a particularly creative and energising experience for her, Moray and Herring were both part of that groundbreaking project.

Modern, warm and resonant the ten songs comprise faultless musicianship, singing and production - which you would expect from them, but it is the eight original compositions that make it really shine. They have a depth in the storytelling, arrangements and production that most 'mainstream' artists would give their right arm for.

Mention will always be made of the duo's part in the 'supergroup' Equation back in the 1990's, along with Sam and Seth Lakeman and Kate Rusby, all of it's members have delivered on that early promise in spades. Such amazing British talent deserves greater recognition, in these recession and rain lashed days they are a welcome ray of sunshine

It has been worth the wait, just don't leave it so long next time...

www.kathrynrobertsandseanlakeman.com

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