Amy Leach and Alasdair Paul, a distinguished Scottish duo known for their profound passion for traditional ballads, are set to captivate audiences at the 2024 Bromyard Folk Festival. Their partnership, rooted in a shared love for the rich tapestry of traditional songs, has flourished into a unique musical venture that highlights the beauty and simplicity of folk music. Both artists bring a wealth of experience and a deep reverence for tradition to their performances, creating an authentic and moving experience for listeners.
Amy Leach, hailing from Edinburgh, is a traditional singer with a penchant for big ballads and the quirky, oft-overlooked gems of folk music. Her journey in music was significantly shaped by her time spent studying on the Folk Degree at Newcastle University, where she learned from revered tradition bearers and singers. Amy’s career has seen her perform with The Lindie Quartet and The Flyting, and she has found a harmonious collaboration with Alasdair Paul. Beyond her performances, Amy is dedicated to fostering community through music as a choir leader, embracing the collective power of singing with gusto.
Alasdair Paul, a talented guitarist and multi-instrumentalist from the Highlands, complements Amy’s vocal prowess with his intricate guitar work, vocals, and banjo playing. Together, they have crafted a musical style that is both minimalist and richly expressive, allowing the narrative and emotion of each ballad to resonate fully. Their debut EP, ‘Six Sangs,’ exemplifies this approach, featuring arrangements that foreground the song and lyrics, underscored by the duo’s instinctive musical rapport. As members of The Flyting alongside Sean O’Kane and Shona Mooney, they have already made their mark on the folk scene, and their participation in the Bromyard Folk Festival promises to be a highlight, showcasing their dedication to the traditional songs that unite and inspire.