Key players of Cambridge’s underground folk scene, Lionshare’s first full length outing does not disappoint. From the Ground weaves a powerful yet subtly muted sound featuring traditional and contemporary influences whilst conveying a fresh immediacy.

Vocally driven, the songs revolve around acoustic guitar with strong accompaniment from cello, electric guitar and organ, along with more unconventional instruments such as singing bowl and board zither. Through use of vintage recording processes (recorded straight onto analogue tape) the deceptively simple sound marries traditional and contemporary influences. Moreover, although Lionshare are rooted in a folk tradition they’re likely to appeal to a broader audience conjuring images and atmospheres more far reaching than the usual folk clichés of lost woodlands and willowy women. The lyrics of the tracks display deep understanding of the march of life with the vocal sound providing an often melancholy yearning for simplicity and order. The control and restraint of Simon Loynes vocals sound all the more powerful against the psychedelic flourishes of outstanding track, The Bark. Another high point is the haunting and melancholic Downstream.

And so, Lionshare’s From the Ground is an outstanding debut which doesn’t just hint at greatness but delivers it fresh and sanguine on a plate.

Writer: Nancy Hogg

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