News
Rev Simpkins
Saltings – CD with Book
Saltings is a close collaboration between Matt Simpkins and the Mersea Island artist, Tom Knight, who has created a stunning work of art for each song on the LP.
It is a loving portrait of the mystery and beauty of the salt marsh wildernesses of Essex, and a meditation on the human cost of the wilderness time of the pandemic.
- Info
- Digital
- Listen
- Video
Description
Saltings is a close collaboration between Matt Simpkins and the Mersea Island artist, Tom Knight, who has created a stunning work of art for each song on the album. The CD is housed in a 32-page full colour saddle-stitched 210 x 210 mm art book of Tom Knight’s illustrations, with lyrics and an essay by Rev Matthew Simpkins. The book is printed on deluxe Aquarello Gesso art paper.
The album is a loving portrait of the mystery and beauty of the salt marsh wildernesses of Essex, and a meditation on the human cost of the wilderness time of the pandemic.
Like Rev Simpkins’s last album, Saltings is most of all a record of unblinking realism amidst darkness, and of a hope grounded in human experience.
The album weaves together tales of the legendary and mysterious figures of the saltings, such as John Ball (leader of the peasants’ revolt) and Saint Cedd (whose Saxon chapel stands at Bradwell), with reflections on the ever-changing tides, skies, and seasons. Saltings is an attempt to share the atmosphere and history of this remarkable place in picture and song.
“An absolute gem by Rev Simpkins from the wilds of Essex. Not just great music, but in a fabulously designed book… It’s another addition to the potential albums of the year list.” – Ian Anderson, Podwireless.
“One of the most beautifully packaged albums I can remember… This is an album worth exploring. Don’t expect to get it first time round, but ‘Saltings’ will reward you many times over with repeated listens.” – Americana UK
“An attempt to share the atmosphere and history of the salt marsh wildernesses of Essex, a portrait of their ever-changing tides, skies and seasons, and a meditation on the wilderness time of the pandemic. It’s a beautifully presented release that visually and musically accomplishes its goals.” – Folk Radio UK
“His vocals are magnificent, as is the production…with an outstanding book by Tom Knight that will take your breath away” – Vive le Rock
“The complete package is a triumph, and the music within makes for both hypnotic and compulsive listening in its creative juxtaposition and reflection of – and oneness with – the wonderful artwork.” – FATEA
“A superbly created and produced booklet.” – Folk London
-
Bandcamp
