Hhymn

Hhymn are a group from Nottingham who form in early 2008 around Ed Bannard and Simon Ritchie. They fully form in late 2008, when long-term friend Mike Wynne joins on drums, Amy Helliwell joins on glockenspiel, organ and trumpet, and Will Jeffrey joins on bass.

Sound and instrumentation

The group write in a folk-leaning indie style with a bleak, melancholic character. Their songs use a wide range of acoustic and chamber-style instruments, including zithers, mandolins, ukuleles, harmoniums, dulcimers, double basses, brass and brushes. Their music is described as combining plaintive vocals, slow-building melodies and a grainy energy associated with the English Midlands.

Releases and activity

Hhymn release their debut album, In the Depths, on Denizen Recordings in 2011. Before that album, they issue a succession of self-released singles that sell out as their profile grows. Their songs are noted for their emotional weight and for lyrics that focus on sadness and hardship.

Recognition and comparisons

The group gain attention from Tom Robinson on BBC6 Music, who books them for BBC6 Introducing, and from Matt Horne, who books them for a session in London. Their sound draws comparisons with Bon Iver, Beirut, The Be Good Tanyas, Will Oldham and Tim Hardin, while also being linked to the broader Nottingham scene.