James Delarre and Saul Rose, a dynamic duo renowned for their exquisite fiddle and box (melodeon) partnership, are celebrated figures in the English folk music scene. Their collaboration is marked by a seamless intertwining of melodies, where each tune is danced around with precision, allowing for moments of space, air, and an infusion of fresh energy into traditional music. This unique approach has captivated audiences and breathed new life into the genre.
James Delarre, a fiddle player with an impressive pedigree, is a founding member of the critically acclaimed bands Topette!!, Mawkin, and Mawkin:Causley. His talent has made him a sought-after musician within and beyond the traditional English folk scene. Saul Rose, on the other hand, is a distinguished English folk melodeon player and singer, known for his long-time association with Waterson:Carthy—a group that has garnered two BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. Rose was also nominated for Musician of The Year in 2010, contributed his expertise to the power folk band Faustus, and is a founding member of Eliza Carthy & The Wayward Band.
After a hiatus initiated in 2018 due to personal commitments and the disbandment of Mawkin, Delarre and Rose have rejoined forces, bringing their celebrated collaboration back to the stage. Despite the pause, both musicians have been active in other projects, with Delarre engaging in session work and starting a solo career, and Rose joining Eliza Carthy’s band, The Restitution, and participating in other ventures like Whapweasel. Their anticipated return includes a “new” album titled “Kith and Kin,” reflecting their enduring friendship and the joys of their musical journey together. This collection, recorded primarily in 2016/17 but unreleased until now, showcases tunes and songs that have been staples in their live performances. As they prepare for a series of performances and the official album release, fans can eagerly await their appearance at the Bromyard Folk Festival, promising a memorable showcase of their unmatched musical synergy.