NEWS: The Lost Words – Spell Songs @ Sage Gateshead

How can you know the power of words until you lose them? Back in 2017, The Lost Words was published; an unusual dictionary which presented forgotten words from the natural world and called for their appreciation and celebration, alongside beautiful artwork. The poetic writing of Robert Macfarlane and illustrative genius of Jackie Morris has been an inspiration to thousands.

Following its success a group of eight musicians, including Karine Polwart, Kris Drever and Jim Molyneux, were commissioned to create the album Spell Songs, which acts as a companion piece to the beloved book.

This enlightening set of folk songs makes use of acoustic instruments and warm vocals that are able to blend seamlessly from the rich and powerful tones of many voices to a soft and sweet sound, similar to mother’s lullaby. Lyrically, the words share a love of the natural world but also hold the warning notes often found in traditional Celtic melodies. This pairing creates an album which inspires hope and calls for caring action.

Over the course of 2019, the band played to sold out shows across the UK, and now they’re taking their music out again, with a show coming up at Sage Gateshead on Saturday 29^th January. Inspired by the original book, but also by its recent follow up, the group are releasing a new album Spell Songs 2: Let The Light In on 10^th December, before kicking off their tour.

The Lost Words: Spell Songs play Sage Gateshead on Saturday 29^th January