Martin Simpson
- Main Information
“One of the virtuoso instrumentalists of the English music scene... sounds better than ever." The Guardian
One of England’s most revered folk performers, widely acknowledged as one of the finest acoustic and slide guitar players in the world, Martin's interpretations of traditional songs are masterpieces of storytelling. His remarkable solo shows are intense, eclectic, spellbinding and deeply moving. Always prolific, and never one to rest long without a guitar in his hands and a song in his head, Martin Simpson continues to travel the length and breadth of the UK and beyond giving rapt audiences passion, sorrow, love, beauty, tragedy and majesty through his remarkable intimate solo performances. Martin has been nominated an astounding 32 times in the 18 years of the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards - more than any other performer - and has won numerous awards.
Martin’s new solo album, Skydancers was released in April 2024 on Topic Records. The album is a twin release featuring a live CD recorded on recent gigs and a studio CD including some of Martin's absolutely favourite musicians.
Last year’s album with Nashville’s Thomm Jutz, Nothing But Green Willow: The Songs Of Mary Sands And Jane Gentry, received superlative reviews from both sides of the Atlantic.
“Drizzling with Simpson’s shining guitars.” The Guardian
"A record of rare power and significance.” 9/10 Guitarist
A virtuoso player without question, but above all Martin Simpson conveys his diverse treasure trove of material from the heart, performing with rare subtlety, intensity and honesty. A true master of his art.
Praise for Skydancers:
“An excellent record from a master of his craft.”
“Acoustic finger-picking magic.”
“Penguin Eggs-good. Seriously.”
"It’s stunning and without doubt his finest work in almost half a century of being at the vanguard of British guitar players, songwriters, singers and true custodians of folk music.”
"I do believe this set could be equal to, maybe better than, anything he’s ever done."
