Admiral Fallow

Admiral Fallow is a folk group from Glasgow, Scotland, formed in 2007 and active since then. The band is centred on singer-songwriter Louis Abbott and is known for using clarinet, flute and double bass alongside an indie band set-up. Sarah Hayes is the second vocalist and her Northumbrian accent contrasts with Abbott’s Scottish delivery. The group was formerly called Brother Louis Collective.

Style and influences

The band works in folk and pop, with an acoustic and indie edge, and draws on influences including Tom Waits, Elbow, Low, Midlake, King Creosote and Bruce Springsteen. Their songs combine orchestral textures with voices and guitar, moving between simple arrangements and louder, more chaotic sections. Lyrically, they often deal with alienation in relationships and with youth.

Early releases and live reputation

Before adopting the Admiral Fallow name, the group releases its debut single, “These Barren Years”, with “Gypsy Girl” on the B-side. The single is co-produced by Jim Neilson and issued on EUPHONIOS RECORDS. Its first album, Boots Met My Face, is recorded at Chem 19 with producer Paul Savage and support from the Scottish Arts Council. The band also plays live dates at venues including Oran Mor in Glasgow, The Caves in Edinburgh, Nice ’N Sleazys, and launches material with in-store appearances and headline shows.

Festival and tour appearances

Admiral Fallow appears on the Connect festival bill, headlines the Sunday night T Break stage at T in the Park, and plays the Fence Collective’s Homegame Festival with King Creosote. The group also tours the UK and supports the Futureheads in Glasgow. Fyfe Dangerfield of Guillemots supports the band early on and asks them to open for Guillemots in Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Recognition

The group receives King Tut’s “Your Sound” artist of the month award, is named the Scotsman’s Under The Radar band of 2009, and earns strong live reviews for its layered, high-energy performances.