English Folk Musician Lucy Farrell Unveils Debut Album “We are only Sound”

Lucy Farrell, a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist (viola, fiddle and tenor guitar) who has long been a fixture on the UK folk music scene, is set to release her highly anticipated debut album “We are only Sound“. Despite her extensive collaborations with esteemed folk artists, Lucy’s solo career has taken a back seat until now.

The album, which is due to be released on April 21, 2023, by Hudson Records, was recorded in the beautiful medieval surroundings of Much Wenlock Abbey. The recording space was generously provided by Gabrielle Drake, sister of the late Nick Drake, who also allowed Lucy to use her brother’s instruments, including his piano and guitar. The unique sound of these instruments can be heard throughout the album, which was recorded live in one room in a single take.

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Lucy’s crystalline vocals are beautifully complemented by sparse accompaniment, including intricate guitar work and subtle electronic touches. The songs on “We are only Sound” are introspective and dreamy, written over a span of eight years, during which Lucy experienced the ups and downs of life, including motherhood and breakups. “I think these themes and ideas are universal,” she says. “They would resonate with other people too.” Lucy goes on to explain that she finds it easier to work through her feelings in songs rather than through spoken language, and that her songs are full of questions rather than answers.

Born into a folk culture and tradition (her father was a Molly dancer), Lucy has collaborated with many illustrious artists over the years, including Eliza Carthy & The Wayward Band, Gluepot, Modern Fairies and Carthy, Oates, Farrell & Young. She has also worked on duo projects with Andrew Waite and Jonny Kearney, and in 2017, she won the BBC Radio 2 Folk Award for Best Group with The Furrow Collective.

“We are only Sound” marks a new chapter for Lucy, highlighting her sophisticated songwriting, elegant vocals, and thoughtful accompaniment. With this debut album, Lucy is firmly establishing herself as a leading figure in contemporary English folk music.

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