Full Review

Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman – Two

Over the past few years Kathryn & Sean’s debut duo disc (‘One’) has never been far away from my CD player, and it’s probably the album I’ve listened to more than any other over this period – so the arrival of this second disc is very welcome, although it obviously comes with a huge degree of expectation.

Musically they take a similar approach to the first album, low-key, laid-back acoustic contemporary folk with the material being a mixture of traditional songs and covers. While the pair provide most of the instrumentation (guitars, piano, flute and clarinet), they’re joined one some tracks by Seth Lakeman’s violin and the bassist and drummer from Equation. Despite the supporting musicians this is definitely an album the spotlights the duo and their respective performances are excellent in every respect – Kathryn’s vocals are pure, unaffected and expressive, and Sean’s guitar work is superb throughout. The second track ‘Sir Arthur’ is the perfect showcase for their talents, it’s a striking and dynamic performance with exceptional vocals and guitar – it’s easily one of the best single tracks of the year.

The choice of material is excellent, the traditional material is vibrant with real drama at every turn, and there is a good range folk themes on offer (murder, deception etc.), but the two tracks in the middle of the disc ‘Willow Tree’ and ‘Red Barn’ are two of the more gruesome tales you’ll hear.

‘Two’ is more than a worthy follow up to the debut disc, the material and interpretations, musical skill and artistry, and simple production all go towards creating a fantastic collection of songs. The best folk album of the year by some margin – essential.