While traditional folk music has seen a revival and increase in exposure over the past 10 years thanks to a raft of talented young artists, the way in which Tim Van Eyken has reinterpreted the songs that make up this album puts him up there with the very best young folk artists.
From the opening guitar strains of the stunning ‘Barleycorn’ there’s an energy and enthusiasm that hits you; the arrangements are edgy and full of rhythm & drive but without ever being overbearing – the 11 tracks have an enthusiasm and life about them obvious from the first listen. Much of this comes down to the 5 musician, Van Eyken is joined by Oliver Knight, Nancy Kerr, Colin Fletcher and Pete Flood, and the rock solid bass and percussion work from Fletcher and Flood create the perfect base for these strong interpretations.
‘Barleycorn’ is the obvious standout, the songs builds from a quiet start and the tension mounts as the mix thickens throughout the 6 minute track; ‘Gypsy Maid’ is a beautiful duet with Kerr which adds contrast and relief halfway through the running order; and ‘Fair Ellen of Ratcliffe’ is the boldest arrangement on the disc, a dense guitar led song that feels jumpy and on edge and adds real excitement to the gruesome story.
‘Stiffs Lovers Holymen Thieves’ feels like an important disc, there’s no doubting it’s one of the finest traditional folk albums of last 5 years or so and the way he interprets is sympathetic to the tradition but also showing influences from more modern music. A superb album and very highly recommended.

£13.49