In 2016, young York-based musician Joshua Burnell embarked on his most ambitious quest yet – his goal was to release his own arrangement of a traditional song each week, reflecting the seasons as the following year progressed. As of May 4th, fourteen of his favourite tracks have shipped onto his latest album and I’ve had the pleasure of listening to it.
Josh is a very traditional folk singer-songwriter and by that I mean he has a strong emphasis on vivid storytelling within his work – and just like traditional folk tales, Josh’s singles are centred on his voice. It’s his narratively evocative tales that grab the listener as we’re reeled into Josh’s world as he carefully and charmingly foretells his fables, with the background acoustics amplifying this immersive aspect.
For instance, in his single ‘Robin Hood and The Peddler’, we’re lulled into the tale by fast, rhythmic acoustics; adding a pace to the narrative as Josh’s voice takes over the story. Both Josh’s voice and the instruments merge together tremendously to create an incredibly pleasing song that captivates the listener.
Listening to Joshua’s folk singles is like being transported to a 19th Century Britain – as if the listener is witnessing Josh live in a bar or around a campfire – and that’s because his singles tell tales of legends like ‘Robin Hood’ and ‘The Nightingale’.
‘Songs of the Seasons’ simply oozes wit. If you’re looking for clever, traditional folk tales, then be sure to check out Josh Burnell.
For further information about Josh and the release head to Joshuaburnell.co.uk.
