Source showcases modern folk at its best

‘Source’ is the new album from English folk pioneer, composer and melodeon player James Kerry. Leading an energetic four-piece acoustic band, James showcases his passion for the music with stunning arrangements of English folk classics, pieces by contemporary artists and his own compositions.

Accompanying James is a group of friends who also happen to be among the UK’s leading folk instrumentalists: James Delarre (Mawkin, Topette!!) on fiddle, viola and mandolin, Tom Kitching (Pilgrim’s Way, Alberio) on fiddle and mandolin, and Danny Tonks (Foot Down, Hilltop Ceilidh Band) on acoustic guitar. 

Still only in his mid-20s, James Kerry has established a reputation for passionate, rhythmic playing rooted in the folk dance tradition. He began his musical journey at a young age, and quickly progressed to play extensively on the Morris and ceilidh circuits, including major festivals like Warwick Folk Festival, Broadstairs Folk Week and Ibiza’s Playing for Change. He is a founding member of the exceptionally popular Hilltop Ceilidh Band and of loved alt-folk group Foot Down, which mixes an electric backline, grunge and trance elements with traditional and self-penned tunes.

It was the Covid-19 pandemic that gave James the time and space to develop the musical ideas and pastoral themes which would eventually become Source, his first solo project. Source is inspired by James’ love of rivers, nature and the countryside alongside his recent move with his family to live on a boat. The name relates to the beginning, the source of the river.

Source is in so many ways a true representation of James’ style and passions, reflecting his huge respect for traditional music and his desire to pass it on.

The album was recorded over three days at Studio One in Margate and mastered at Nick Cooke Mastering in Bristol. 

Source will be released on 1st April 2023. Pre-orders are now being taken and will be shipped before the release date. 

CDs / downloads available from jameskerry.bandcamp.com

Available on major streaming platforms.