Album Review: June Tabor & Oysterband – Ragged Kingdom Vinyl Reissue
Ragged Kingdom by June Tabor & Oysterband was originally released in 2011. This collaboration between the legendary British folk singer June Tabor and the eclectic Oysterband fuses traditional folk with contemporary elements, delivering a timeless, emotional masterpiece.
Tabor has long been celebrated for her haunting, rich vocals and her vast contributions to the folk genre, including collaborations with artists like Maddy Prior. Meanwhile, Oysterband is known for its folk-rock fusion, bringing energy and depth to their performances. Members of the band include John Jones (vocals, melodeon), Ray Cooper (cello, mandolin, bass guitar), and Ian Telfer (fiddle).
The vinyl reissue of Ragged Kingdom is a treat for folk lovers, featuring beautiful plum-colored vinyl and a carefully remastered sound. With powerful reinterpretations of songs like Joy Division’s “Love Will Tear Us Apart” and PJ Harvey’s “That Was My Veil,” alongside traditional ballads such as “The Leaves of Life,” the album merges contemporary and historical storytelling.
The musicianship is exceptional, with contributions from Dill Davies on drums, Al Scott on bass guitar and Mandola, and Alan Prosser on guitar, all adding layers of richness to Tabor’s ethereal vocals. Produced by Al Scott, the album’s standout tracks include “The Hills of Shiloh” and “Bonnie Bunch of Roses,” blending folk history with modern reimaginings.
The blend of traditional and contemporary music makes Ragged Kingdom an enchanting experience, perfect for a reflective moment. Whether you’re discovering June Tabor or revisiting this collaboration, the reissue is a must-have for any folk music enthusiast.
This is one of my standout re-releases of the year, a timeless mix of tradition and innovation that feels as relevant today as it did in 2011.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
