SCOTTISH singer Emily Smith and New Zealand-born songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jamie McClennan have been making music together for 15 years.
Having spent much of 2016 off the road – with Emily on maternity leave – the couple took time to focus on writing new material, drawing on influences from the folk tradition, Americana and beyond, which they will be showcasing at The Mill Arts Centre in Banbury on April 20.
Meeting in 2002 when McClennan moved from NZ to Scotland, fiddle player Jamie soon became an integral part of Emily’s sound, taking on the role of lead guitar and backing vocals and producing several of her albums.
Alongside their solo careers they have performed with the likes of Richard Thompson, Barbara Dickson, Jerry Douglas and Mary Chapin Carpenter.
TV and Radio appearances include Transatlantic Sessions, BBC Songs of Praise, BBC Radio 2’s Good Morning Sunday, Bob Harris Show & The Folk Show with Mark Radcliffe. Emily’s original song ‘Find Hope’ was also chosen as part of Radio 2’s official playlist in December 2016.
They have performed throughout Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Russia and North America.
* Chris and Hannah Tobin are next up at Willow & Tool’s Music Parlour in Long Itchington on Sunday (April 1).
The informal folk and acoustic club, meets monthly at the Harvester Inn. Free admission (jug collection).
Visit Facebook page WillowandTool for further details.
