Joe Tilston is a UK folk musician who comes from the English folk scene and also has a background on the punk scene as bassist with Random Hand. His music brings together those influences, combining folk songwriting with the energy and edge of his work in punk.

Debut album

His debut album, Embers, draws on six years of writing. It is described as a single, coherent collection built around calm grooves and layered arrangements, with contributions from a number of musicians. The record also includes occasional flashes of his punk roots.

Musical background and collaborators

Tilston’s work reflects his upbringing in and around the English folk scene, while his years in punk add a different rhythmic and melodic feel. Embers is produced by Matt Tweed, who has also produced Martha Tilston’s recent records. Recording takes place between the coast of Cornwall and the valleys of West Yorkshire.

He is joined on the album by Luke Yates, a long-time live violin player, who also contributes string arrangements. Other musicians on the record include his sister Martha on the opening track, Sean Howe on drums, Robin Tyndale-Biscoe on percussion, Phillipa Ratcliff on cello, and Hugh Bradley on bass.

Song themes

The songs on Embers deal with themes of humanity, including both questioning and celebrating it, and they take inspiration from friends and family.