World Routes - The Unthanks

A review of new CDs of world music, and an exploration of the folk traditions of Northumberland in a session with The Unthanks. Led by sisters Rachel and Becky Unthank, the band's new album 'Here's the tender coming' is inspired by a song about a boat arriving to press the men of the North East into war. Presented by Lucy Duran. Rachel and Becky Unthank grew up in a family of folk musicians, and began singing themselves from an early age as an acapella duet. They were influenced as much by the sea shanties of the area as the women's songs, and their music is a fresh look at the music of an area of England which is still rich in folk traditions. Their three albums have been well received - their last was nominated for the Mercury Prize - and they are now firm fixtures in festivals throughout the UK. Their appeal is now reaching far beyond folk circles: their new album was recently given 4.5 stars by The Sun. WORLD ROUTES Presented by Lucy Duran Produced by Roger Short Tel. 020 7765 4661 Fax. 020 7765 5052 e-mail [email protected] Saturday 23rd January, 3:00pm Studio Session –The Unthanks Rachel Unthank - vocals Becky Unthank - vocals, feet Adrian McNally - piano, autoharp Chris Price - electic bass, drums, ukelelle, chord organ Dean Ravera - drums, double bass Lizzie Jones - vocal, trumpet Hannah Peel - first violin, trombone Niopha Keegan - vocal, second violin Becca Spencer - viola Jo Silverston - cello, accordion The Testimony of Patience Kershaw The Unthanks BBC Recording by engineers Martin Appleby and Steve Bittlestone, Maida Vale, January 2010 CD Round up with Nigel Williamson and John L Walters Choice 1 (Nigel) Keita: Seydou Salif Keita Album: La Difference Universal White Label Choice 2 (John) Toure/Toumani: 56 Ali Farka Toure; Toumani Diabate Album: Ali and Toumani World Circuit WLWCD086 Choice 3 (Nigel) Ousmane Ag Mossa: Adagh Tamikrest Album: Adagh Glitterhouse Records GRCD703 Choice 4 (John) Gilberto: Sun is shining Bebel Gilberto Album: All in one Verve Records Nobody knew she was there The Unthanks BBC Recording by engineers Martin Appleby and Steve Bittlestone, Maida Vale, January 2010 Sad February The Unthanks BBC Recording by engineers Martin Appleby and Steve Bittlestone, Maida Vale, January 2010 Felton Lonnin The Unthanks BBC Recording by engineers Martin Appleby and Steve Bittlestone, Maida Vale, January 2010