A standout example of the ‘new folk’ genre and the universality of music.
As the second stop on his new album’s extensive UK tour, Sam Lee took to Edinburgh’s Summerhall in celebration of his fourth studio album ‘songdreaming.’ With a beautiful opening by singer songwriter Finn Anderson and a set of new and old hits, the performance was infinitely likeable. Soft spoken and personable, Sam Lee was a barefooted breath of fresh air on the stage. There was a somberness to the performance that was totally entrancing and utterly enigmatic from beginning to end. Inspiring a fanbase that exceeds all expectation and generational divide, the crowd comprised a delightful mix of respectful and attentive patrons giving the whole affair an air of reverence and meditation.
Regarding the set itself, Sam’s work, comprising four albums, is utterly cinematic—which is fitting seeing as the newest album was mostly written for the screen. Epical in every sense, it posed not only an astounding contrast to the quirky singer, himself, but also the lovely juxtaposition of fantastical and temporal themes. Encompassing a wide range of experience and tone, it was a real treat to hear the inspiration and history that brought it all about. Giving new life to old tunes and bringing them into the public awareness as living history is a laudable and mammoth endeavor that Sam appears to take into stride. Quick to recognize the subtext and lingering unease inherent in all his songs, the set was evocative of nature and the human connection to it with its seemingly dwindling partnership. Eco-anxiety notwithstanding it was stunning, inspiring, and downright good.
A beautiful collaborative endeavour produced by Bernard Butler and composer James Keay, the evening was an overall success and a privilege to be a part of, especially in such an intimate space. It is always a lovely surprise to hear new music that steps outside of popular themes and narratives, and it was obvious by the eclectic and packed turnout that there is an audience craving simple and cerebral sounds. Deserving of every bit of critical acclaim the album and performance has amassed already, simply put: it was quirky, it was fun. It was unexpected and it sets the bar high for the oxymoronic ‘new folk’ sound.
Tickets are now on sale, visit www.samleesong.co.uk for details and booking.