The Vale is delighted to welcome The Brothers Gillespie, who have been described by Folk Radio UK as ‘weaving an especially compelling magic’, and ‘showing British acoustic music in its best possible light’, the music of Northumbrian duo The Brothers Gillespie is animated by lyrical songwriting, fine fingerstyle guitar playing, multi-instrumental musicianship and ‘the glorious tones of their blood harmony’ (Sam Lee).
Brothers James and Sam Gillespie found their sound growing up in the fells and valleys of Northumberland, their songs often describing relationships with wild places and the experience of finding oneself in a world alive with soul. The music comes to them most strongly when walking in the borderlands with their packs and instruments which remains a regular practice for them. This spirit is channeled into their live performances which have a rare and intimate energy, both ethereal and earthy, romantic and radical.
The brothers have travelled far and wide with their music and have played at Cambridge and Sidmouth Folk Festivals and opened for Lankum and Sam Lee. In 2021 they featured in the English Heritage ‘Songs of England’ recording series that appeared on BBC Radio 4. The release of their new album ‘The Merciful Road’ (‘pure magic’, Living Tradition) in Spring 2022 saw them embark on their most extensive national tour to date. ‘The Merciful Road’ was recorded in a cottage by the banks of the river Tweed and like their previous album ‘The Fell’, it blends rootsy, acoustic elements to create a rich warm sound with a touch of vintage magic. In some ways it is an album about finding the thread of love and belonging in a world that seems to be nonetheless unravelling.
“Anyone who has seen the brothers live will surely attest that it is an experience that will stay with you. There is a feeling of warmth that exudes from them and affects everyone in the room… I am not usually given to grand statements, but I think this will be one of the finest albums you will hear this year! ”
— Nygel Packett, Folk London review of ‘The Merciful Road’
“This is a moving and surprising album. Stunning songs beautifully sung and played. Without doubt a classic in the making from a duo potent with potential.”
Support: CHLOE LAWRENCE
Chloe Lawrence, born and bred in Southern Spain to Essex parents, is a Manchester based singer/songwriter and street musician. Performing on a Spanish nylon string guitar, Chloe combines sprinklings of classical folk music and intricate finger-picking with her own fierce, independent modernity. Moments of spoken word and unexpected pop vocal riffing provoke emotional digging around relatable themes; a blend that serves to differentiate her style from any particular genre. Chloe plays on streets all over the UK and beyond; feeling busking to be the rawest form of performance and the best way of restoring faith in humanity.