The Breakdown
Seth Lakeman’s forthcoming album, The Granite Way, set for release on February 14th via Honour Oak Records, reaffirms his mastery in contemporary folk music. While the album doesn’t mark a significant departure from his established style, it encapsulates the core elements that have consistently distinguished his work: a compelling voice, intricate arrangements, and evocative storytelling. From the opening track, Louisa, Lakeman’s signature vocals and deft guitar work create a rich tapestry of sound, showcasing his unique ability to build tension and anticipation through his songwriting.
The album is steeped in melody and, as he told us in a recent interview, based around themes relating to Dartmoor and the vicinity, offering listeners ample moments to engage and sing along. The spirited opener, Louisa, narrates the tale of a lifeboat journeying by land to Porlock Weir from Lynmouth, setting a vibrant tone for the record. Tracks like One More Before You Go exude a swooning insistence, while Charlotte Dymond delves into melancholy, recounting the haunting story of a woman murdered on Bodmin Moor by her farmhand. Lakeman’s storytelling prowess shines as he weaves these narratives into captivating melodies.
A notable highlight is Huntsman and the Moon, which introduces a gentle, shuffling rhythm that complements Lakeman’s vocal performance, possibly the album’s most compelling. This track explores the eerie legend of Old Crockern, the Huntsman Devil of Dartmoor, adding a mystical dimension to the collection. In contrast, Come and Go offers a stately warmth, its irresistible charm inviting repeated listens. The album concludes with Roll Back the Years, a slow, thumping waltz depicting an old woman lamenting her father lost at sea, leaving listeners with a poignant and unearthly resonance.
The collaborative efforts on this album are noteworthy. Lakeman is joined by longtime collaborators Benji Kirkpatrick (electric guitar, acoustic guitar, banjo, mandolin, harmonica), Ben Nicholls (double bass, electric bass), Cormac Byrne (percussion, bodhran), and Alex Hart (vocals). Additional contributions from Archie Churchill Moss (accordion) and Dany Crimp (whistles) enrich the album’s sonic landscape. Lakeman emphasizes the organic evolution of the tracks, stating in our interview with his , “With very little rehearsal beforehand the songs evolved quickly and naturally – there was no fixed arrangement until we finally recorded”.
The Granite Way stands as a testament to Seth Lakeman’s unwavering dedication to his craft. While it may not venture into uncharted territory, the album encapsulates the essence of what makes Lakeman’s music compelling: authentic storytelling, masterful musicianship, and a profound connection to folk traditions. Listeners can anticipate an album that resonates with both familiarity and freshness, solidifying Lakeman’s place in the contemporary folk landscape.
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