Faustus is a well established name in the English folk scene made up of three of the best-known and talented English folk musicians – Paul Sartin, Benji Kirkpatrick, and Saul Rose.
During 2016 the band were Artists in Residence at Halsway Manor, National Centre for the Folk Arts, in the Quantock Hills of Somerset, where they had unlimited access to the Manor’s extensive library, and where their critically acclaimed 2016 album ‘Death and Other Animals’ was recorded.
Featuring their latest EP ‘Slaves’ - the words may have been written in 1840 but it’s as relevent as ever - and ‘Thresherman’, an ancient ode to the rural poor, this is Faustus’ response to these dangerous times. On the other hand, tracks like ‘One More Day (Radio Edit)’ celebrates the joys and challenges of the working life, while some respite comes in the form of 2 brand new waltzes, ‘The Knife of Brian’ and ‘Bluebells and Beech Woods’.
Most prominent to note is Faustus’ harmonic sound, which brings back an authenticity to the folk genre that is reminiscent of, but more original than, Mumford and Sons. This is probably one of the reasons why The Guardian have named them as “One of Britain’s outstanding folk bands.”
‘Death and Other Animals’ has also received the German Critics Award (Schallplatenkritik Bestenliste) in the Folk/Singer-Songwriter/World Music category.
Nettlebed Folk Club, Show 8pm, Tickets £14 adv/£15 door.
Tel 01628 636620 or visit www.nettlebedfolkclub.co.uk
Photo credit: Luke Pajak