The Unthanks

The Unthanks are an English folk group from Newcastle upon Tyne, with roots in Northumberland. The line-up includes Rachel Unthank, Becky Unthank, Anna Jenkins, Niopha Keegan, Adrian McNally and Chris Price. The group is active from 2009 onwards, and their work spans chamber folk, contemporary folk, folk, indie folk and Christmas music.

Background

The group begins in 2004 as Rachel Unthank & The Winterset and uses that name until 2009, when it changes along with the line-up. Rachel and Becky Unthank are siblings and remain central to the group’s identity. Their music combines traditional English folk with other styles, and it draws on their Geordie North East England background as well as wider influences.

Music and style

The Unthanks are known for a blend of folk traditions and more experimental elements. Their sound uses a wide range of instruments and a storytelling approach that focuses on loss, fear, drink, violence, abuse and sorrow. Their influences include Steve Reich, Antony & The Johnsons, Robert Wyatt and Miles Davis, alongside a connection to artists such as Sufjan Stevens, Bonnie Prince Billy and Tom Waits.

Releases and recognition

The first album under the name The Unthanks is Here’s the Tender Coming. Their second album, Last, follows in 2011. The earlier album The Bairns appears in 2007 and is nominated for the Mercury Music Prize. It also appears in end-of-decade album lists from Uncut and The Guardian. Here’s the Tender Coming is named Folk Album of the Year by both the BBC and Mojo, and it features in many UK album-of-the-year polls.

Later projects

In 2012, The Unthanks undertake a joint album and live project with the Brighouse & Rastrick brass band, which results in Diversions, Volume 2: The Unthanks With Brighouse and Rastrick Brass Band. They also release Songs from the Shipyards in 2012.

Reputation

The Unthanks occupy a distinctive place in British folk, with an approach that links older song traditions to modern arrangements and wider musical ideas. Their music attracts listeners associated with artists such as Radiohead, Portishead, Robert Wyatt, Ben Folds, Elvis Costello, Rosanne Cash, Ewan McGregor and Nick Hornby.