Katherine Priddy – Live at Union Chapel Review
Exploring new artists is always special, especially when you stumble upon one whose music immediately captivates you. Katherine Priddy, a talented singer-songwriter from Birmingham, is one such artist whose recent Record Store Day release, Live at Union Chapel, has been a mesmerizing introduction.
Katherine Priddy has steadily built a reputation in the folk scene with her richly narrative songwriting and enchanting voice. She first emerged on the scene with her EP Wolf in 2018, which earned critical acclaim and praise for her vivid storytelling and delicate acoustic arrangements. Her debut album, The Eternal Rocks Beneath (2021), further established her as an important new voice in British folk music, drawing comparisons to legends such as Nick Drake and Sandy Denny.
Live at Union Chapel: A Mesmerizing Experience
The first thing you’ll notice about Live at Union Chapel is the presentation. Released as a limited double album on striking purple vinyl with a beautiful etched side four, it’s visually and sonically compelling. The packaging itself, adorned with images of Katherine and her fellow musicians performing, invites you into a unique musical experience.
Listening to the album is an immersive journey. Recorded live at the atmospheric Union Chapel in London, the acoustics naturally enhance the ethereal and absorbing qualities of Katherine’s music. Her voice, clear and haunting, gently floats over a tapestry of acoustic guitars, delicate violin, and atmospheric harmonies.
Notably, George Boomsma, another impressive folk talent, contributes significantly to the album, adding depth to the already rich textures. Tracks like “First House on the Left” showcase gorgeous violin accompaniment, while “Does She Hold You Like I Did” resonates with emotional complexity and intricate guitar work.
Standout tracks such as “A Boat on the River” and “Northern Sunrise” emphasize Katherine’s gift for storytelling and musical subtlety. “Letters from a Travelling Man” features outstanding guitar picking, creating an intimate and reflective mood. “Indigo” exemplifies Katherine’s unique ability to create music that wraps itself around the listener, pulling you gently but irresistibly closer.
The emotionally charged “Father of Two,” dedicated to her father, brings a deeply personal touch to the album, highlighting her authenticity and vulnerability. The album concludes beautifully with “Ready to Go,” featuring the evocative harmonies of the Syrinx Choir, providing a fitting end to a magical listening experience.
Let’s hope this beautiful release receives a broader distribution, reaching audiences beyond Record Store Day.
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Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
