Focusing on songs from rural England found in local archives and EFDSS collections, Ben and Kirsty are breathing new life into long-lost songs of the land; innovative composers and performers bringing eclectic influences from across the musical spectrum – from classical to jazz to electronica – as well as deep roots in traditional music. Both consummate musicians, contrasting and complementary styles combine to create a timeless sound, with Ben’s guitars and mandolin providing a perfect frame for Kirsty’s piano, harp and silver voice.

Ben Walker was recently hailed as ‘one of the best acoustic guitarists in the world right now’ by Total Guitar magazine and ‘a great guitarist, composer and producer’ by Mark Radcliffe on the BBC Folk Show. With his work sought out from punk to Proms, from Rough Trade to the Royal Shakespeare Company, his passion is putting old jewels in new settings. A BBC Folk Award winner with more than fifty albums under his belt as a producer and player, Ben released his own album Echo last year to universal critical acclaim. Reviewers called it ‘a profound statement connecting past and present’ (fRoots), ‘ambitious, distinctive and brilliantly achieved’ (Songlines) ‘exceptional’ (Folk Radio UK) and ‘simply ‘stunning’ (The Guardian).

Kirsty Merryn launched her debut album She & I in 2017 whilst supporting folk behemoths Show of Hands on their extensive UK Cathedrals tour. The album gained fantastic reviews and extensive airplay, with reviewers dubbing Kirsty ‘destined to be a big star’ (Sunday Express). One of her tracks features on Show of Hands’ new studio album Battlefield Dancefloor. Earlier this year her much anticipated follow-up album, Our Bright Night was chosen as the Guardian’s Folk Album of the Month with Folk Radio UK welcoming her ‘haunting…emotional and musical depth…musical craftsmanship and her articulacy of the heart.’

Ben and Kirsty released a limited edition EP of songs from Life and the Land on 3rd September 2021, on Folkroom Records.