Wayward Jane release their second album

Wayward Jane

Wayward Jane are renowned in Edinburgh and beyond as exponents of a unique, transatlantic interpretation of American folk and Old Time traditions, whose sound is characterised by fun, inventiveness and a warm, intuitive dynamic between the band members.

They are just about to release their second album Old Train launched with a concert at the Argyle Cellar Bar in Edinburgh on the evening of Saturday 14th December.

Old Train was recorded by sound engineer and musician Tim Lane whose Stable Project Studio in the East Lothian countryside has become a popular choice for recording artists from Edinburgh’s alternative folk scene. The band took up residence at the studio for the duration of the process and for the most part recorded live in one room with minimal use of overdubbing. The result is a recording that is true to the spirit of their live shows, displaying their characteristic energy, spontaneity and playfulness. This combines with the clarity and richness that has been achieved in the representation of the individual instruments and voices, with pleasing vintage warmth pervading the whole. Graham Coe of the Jellyman’s Daughter mixed the album; his love and knowledge of the genre made him the perfect choice for the record.

The album showcases the band’s unique sound and blends roots material with fresh arrangements and original compositions. Alongside Old Time and Country Blues music, Old Train features songs by Gillian Welch, I Draw Slow and several compositions by the band themselves.

Some classic string band elements are present in the sound, with great fiddle and clawhammer banjo playing complimented by the drive and warmth of guitar and bass. Yet the music also features wooden flute/whistles, an inventive approach to arrangement and an emphasis on powerful vocals with close harmonies. Old Train ranges in mood and tempo from driving Old Time tunes to tender and passionate songs, with musicality and soulfulness animating the whole record.

The four band members are all active in the Celtic folk music scene of Edinburgh (and in some cases the Jazz scene) and they bring these perspectives to the American roots music that is the inspiration for Wayward Jane. The line-up includes Rachel Walker (fiddle, vocals) and Dan Abrahams (guitar, double bass) of the mighty Edinburgh folk-jazz pioneers Dowally, alongside Sam Gillespie (vocals, guitar, woodwind) of Northumbrian folk troubadours The Brothers Gillespie. Banjo player Michael Starkey has travelled and studied traditional music in the Appalachians, bringing back with him tunes and insights which help shape the sound of the album.

Wayward Jane will be gigging and touring throughout 2020 with upcoming performances including Dundee Folk Club on Sunday 19th January, Glenfarg Folk Club on Monday 27th January and Dunfermline Folk Club on Wednesday 5th February.

Artists’ website: http://waywardjane.com/about/

‘September’ – official video:


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