Folking previews Union Jill’s new album ‘Repectable Rebellion’

Union JillYorkshire’s acoustic duo, Union Jill (Sharon Winfield and Helen Turner) release their new album Respectable Rebellion, on May 11, 2013. Union Jill’s songs combine strong melodies and thought-provoking lyrics. With both Winfield and Turner on acoustic guitar, mandola and vocals , the duo’s sound is distinctive and fresh.

Union Jill’s Respectable Rebellion is a vibrant collection of 13 new tracks. The album has been produced by Clive Gregson (Richard Thompson, Nanci Griffith, Gregson and Collister) and John Wood (Pink Floyd, Cat Stevens, Nick Drake, Fairport Convention) and features an impressive roster of contributing musicians.

The impressive arrangements include rich harmonies, whilst the instrumentation ranges from gutsy and dark to a feathery light touch.  Clive Gregson on guitar is masterful and fluid.  Andy Seward demonstrates he is a virtuoso on upright and electric bass and throws in a delightful banjo on Queen of Holloway.  Mark Boyce on drums expertly drives the rhythm and adds delicate moments throughout. The effervescent Ric Sanders is unmistakable on fiddle, particularly on Morecambe Bay where he characteristically lets fly. Kate St. John on sax and cor anglais brings added sparkle to Trailblazer and Witch Hunt.

Top all that talent off with the genius that is John Wood capturing the detail and the vibe of each track and you have a formidable album.

‘This album is a quantum leap for us,’ says Sharon Winfield, ‘the production brings out the live sound, the results are superb. Working with Clive Gregson and John Wood is a fantastic opportunity to develop our sound.’

‘We’ve really enjoyed making this album,’ Helen Turner adds. ‘We play well together as a duo and working with these brilliant musicians has been inspirational.’

To celebrate the release, Union Jill will perform at the National Centre for Early Music in York on 11th May 2013 at 8pm.

Union Jill will be on tour this Summer. Dates and locations www.unionjill.org

Folking were really hoping to have a video or soundcloud audio link for the Queen of Holloway, the open track on Respectable Rebellion to share with you.  The catchy banjo, electric guitar and fiddle combination is driving us folking mad . Keep an eye out for this duo, they are going to be folking huge”

‘A great album…this will get Union Jill some well-deserved recognition.’

Dave Pegg, Fairport Convention


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