Carolyn and Mark Evans who go under the name Red Shoes, had their initial meeting with legendary bass player Dave Pegg of Fairport Convention/Jethro Tull in 2008, after Peggy heard their songs on MySpace on the internet. This in turn led to his offer to both produce and play on their debut album. Enlisting the help of fellow Fairport member, Chris Leslie on fiddle and Dylan Project/Little Johnny England guitarist PJ Wright, Dave Pegg then set about recording what would turn out to be the duo’s debut album, Ring Around The Land.
Released on Cedarwood Records in the summer of 2009, the album was critically acclaimed in the press, garnering such praise as “Folk album of the Year” from NetRhythms; and “Magical album” from R2. This in turn led to international distribution through Universal in 2010.
The connection with Dave Pegg continued by way of Fairport Convention recording their version of Celtic Moon (opening track on Ring Around The Land) for the album Festival Bell. The song remains a crowd favourite in the Fairport live set.
Red Shoes have now released their follow up album All The Good Friends with Mick Dolan (Stevie Winwood, Show of Hands, Ralph McTell, Fisherman’s Friends) in the producer’s chair. The release being funded with the help of the direct-from-artist-to-fan site Pledge Music. This new model for recording and releasing albums is definitely the way forward, giving the artist a real connection with their fans and vice versa.
This second album sees their songwriting growing in stature and maturity, whilst also retaining their skill for memorable tunes and strong choruses. From the opening track Red Coat Ride, with it’s anti-fox hunting theme and pounding rhythm, all way through to the closing lilting waltz of The Last Dance, telling the tale of a lonely woman in a ballroom, this album takes you on an emotional journey, which you won’t forget. With 11 songs – 10 originals and a dazzling version of the Roy Wood song Blackberry Way, Red Shoes invite you into the world of All The Good Friends
These recordings see the duo reunited with Dave Pegg on bass and mandolin, alongside Dave Swarbrick, legendary fiddle player from the halcyon days of Fairport. Also guesting are Ric Sanders & Chris Leslie (Fairport Convention), Bill Hunt (ELO/Wizzard) and Bev Bevan (The Move).
Artist’s website: http://www.redshoes-music.com/
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