Patch and the Giant

Patch and the Giant

Patch and the Giant are a UK indie-folk group with a London base and geographical and musical roots spread across the country. Their sound centres on vocals alongside violin, accordion, cello, flugelhorn and other instruments, and they are described as a band with an enveloping live presence.

Formation and early activity

The group forms in late 2011. Their first full-band performance sells out at Camden Barfly in London. In 2012 they make their festival debut at Festibelly, appearing on a line-up that includes Bastille and We Were Evergreen.

Recordings and releases

The band’s debut release is The Boatswain’s Refuge EP, issued in 2013 on Folkroom Records. It is produced by BBC Folk Award nominee Ben Walker and recorded at Crypt Studios in north London. The release receives radio play, including on BBC Radio 2. The group also records a version of God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen for For Folk’s Sake’s 2013 Christmas compilation, and that recording is played on BBC Radio 6 and Amazing Radio.

Live work and festival appearances

Patch and the Giant tour the UK, including dates with Keston Cobblers’ Club, and play a range of festivals during 2013. These include Green Man, LeeFest, Standon Calling and London FolkFest. They also appear at Cambridge Folk Festival, Lyme Folk Weekend, Hop Farm, Larmer Tree and Wilderness.

Recognition

In 2013, Time Out features the band as one of the defining acts of the London scene. Their music is also described in terms that emphasise its broad folk influences and its ability to draw audiences in, with references to their immersive sound and lively performance style.