Kathryn Tickell & The Darkening's 'Long For Light': A Fusion of Folk and Electronica

“Long For Light” by Kathryn Tickell & The Darkening is a musical journey that immerses you in an ancient Northumbrian atmosphere, blending traditional languages and instruments with a contemporary twist. This folk-meets-electronica fusion brings a unique downtempo vibe to the forefront, reminiscent of the trip-hop sounds of the 90s and evoking memories of artists like Morcheeba.

One of the standout features of this album is the seamless integration of global influences. The reimagining of an ancient Northumbrian language adds a layer of depth to the music, creating a captivating fusion. The combination of downtempo trance and tradition results in a sound that harkens back to the late Martyn Bennett’s global fusion style, pushing the boundaries of folk music into exciting new territory.

Kathryn Tickell, known as the foremost exponent of the Northumbrian pipes, brings her extensive expertise to the forefront in this project. As a composer, performer, and successful recording artist, her work is deeply rooted in the landscape and people of Northumbria. With accolades such as The Queen’s Medal for Music and multiple BBC Folk Awards as “Musician of the Year,” Kathryn Tickell’s musical prowess is unquestionable. Her impressive resume includes collaborations with esteemed artists like Sting, Joanna MacGregor, The Chieftains, Sir Peter Maxwell Davies, and Andy Sheppard, showcasing her versatility as a musician.

“Long For Light” marks the 17th album release for Kathryn Tickell, and in this iteration, she brings forth her band, “Kathryn Tickell & The Darkening.” The album is a testament to their commitment to pushing musical boundaries and exploring new sonic landscapes.