A folk duo is going on tour to celebrate the release of their new album.

Somerset-based duo The Drystones (Ford Collier and Alex Garden) are coming to the Kings Head in Crouch End on Friday, May 10, as part of their new tour. They have been performing for eight years and last year they were nominated for the 2018 BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award. 2019 sees the release of their new album, Apparitions.

The album is made up almost entirely of original songs and some original interpretations of traditional songs. Although it is clearly folk music it is given a thoroughly contemporary twist. The best example is Nonesuch, a 16th century song “played as it would have been played by 16th century minstrels if they had been into techno!”

Their previous albums have been studio produced, but this time Alex and Ford recorded Apparitions at home, taking their time to develop their ideas and stretch the limits of their arts. This allowed them to make full use of the fact that they are both skilled multi instrumentalists. Along with fiddle guitar and whistle, you will hear viola, cello, tabla, kanjira and much more.

The Drystones have played festivals all over the UK and beyond. They have also supported Ray Davis, Steeleye Span, Seth Lakeman, Elephant Sessions, and Martin and Eliza Carthy at Cecil Sharp House.

Kings Head, 2 Crouch End Hill, Crouch End, N8 8AA, Friday, May 10. Details: 0208 341 0716