Seth Lakeman – ‘Freedom Fields’ (Relentless) Released 21/08/06

UK folk music is currently undergoing something of a makeover and leading the revival is Seth Lakeman who re-releases his third solo album ‘Freedom Fields’, his first through Relentless Records. Originally recorded in his brothers Dartmoor kitchen for £300 and put out on his very own I-Scream Records, ‘Freedom Fields’ is inspired by Seth’s treasured West Country, mixing traditional folk music with good old-fashioned song writing. His stripped down distinctive style of musicianship is contemporary, powerful and compelling. Despite the fact that the track listing reads like a collection of novels penned by Bernard Cornwell, ‘Freedom Fields’ is more of a Canterbury Tales for the modern generation with each song sharing a common theme…Story telling. There is a definite olde worlde feel to the album and it’s as much of an educational experience as it is a musical one.

The album takes its name from a skirmish that followed some ferocious fighting in 1643 in which the roundhouse garrison of Plymouth rallied against the cavaliers changing the course of English history. So it follows that the rest of the album adopts this historical sub text. But don’t let that put you off.

From the oppression of copper and tin miners in ‘The Colliers’ with it’s impassioned vocals, ominous fiddle and call and answer harmonies, to the bleak and dark melodies of ‘Childe The Hunter’ which is based on Hunter Childe; who in case you didn’t know was the Anglo Saxon Earl of Plymstock, who, when lost in a blizzard whilst hunting crawled inside the carcass of a dead horse. Both songs are handled with empathy and integrity and are simple and uncomplicated without skirting around the issues at hand. There are lessons to be learnt here and Seth makes sure we hear about them.

Although the majority of the album is littered with historical references, the use of acoustic guitar, mandolin and fiddle provide a distinct and unique pop sound, which also serve to compliment its underlying and deeply ingrained folk roots. No more so than with the first track and forthcoming single ‘Lady Of The Sea (Hear Her Calling)’. A catchy foot tapping sea shanty about love and loss that perfectly showcases Seth’s fiddle playing abilities and makes you want to hear more.

Seth Lakeman wears his heart on his sleeve and this is apparent throughout but really comes to the fore with the soul searching ‘Final Lot’, ‘Band Of Gold’ and ‘ Send Yourself Away’. Considered, reassuring, delicate, sad and poignant, these three songs, which finish the album are a stark contrast to the opening tracks. He’s got a lot to say but is in no rush to say it. The history remains but the emphasis has shifted and is more personal and possibly easier to relate to, but they still fit in perfectly with the consistent mood that flows throughout. In the process proving that you don’t need a wall of sound and a fancy studio to write record and produce a powerful and touching album. ‘Freedom Fields’ is a long and plotted journey through Seth’s West Country and is arguably his best work to date. Long live the Folk Revolution!