Folk duo set to take to the stage
A FOLK music duo is performing in Hinckley to accompany the release of a long-awaited new album.
Kevin Dempsey and Joe Broughton are performing a set at The Hinckley ACT in Watling Close, to accompany their nine-track collection, Off By Heart.
The album’s tracks range from outlandish and inventive instrumentals to traditional and original songs, with a political theme running throughout.
The compilation already has earned a raft of four- and five-star reviews.
The duo has performed in more than 20 countries since forming in 1999 and has released two other albums, ‘Every Other Word’ in 1999 and ‘Freehand’ in 2004.
Dempsey Broughton’s repertoire combines emotive songs, unrivalled musicianship, and a high energy show, with Dempsey on guitar and vocals and Broughton on fiddle and mandolin.
Their music is rooted in folk music but draws influences from styles across the world.
The pair have played with acts including Whippersnapper, Pentangle, Mary Black, Joss Stone, Dando Shaft, The Urban Folk Quartet, Fairport Conven- tion, The Albion Band, Dave Swarbrick, and soul singer Percy Sledge.
Joe said: “With the album and the sell-out gigs, last year was our most successful to date so we can’t wait to get back out again.
“We’re really looking forward to playing songs from our previous releases as well as a few new tunes which we’ve been working on.”
He said about the large gap between their last album and Off By Heart: “The new songs are sounding great, they real- ly continue the themes and ideas.
“After the 13 year gap between albums, we hope it won’t be that long until the next one.”
Kevin said: “Maybe we’ll find the time to do some more recording this coming year.
“We’ve spent the last few months exchanging ideas, so new songs are coming together - instrumentals, traditional songs and original songs.
“We spend a lot of time working on arrangements and always enjoy our time together, from the gigs to our annual guitar and fiddle Summer School, so who knows?”
The duo will be in action at The Hinckley ACT on February 16, from 8pm to 11pm.
Tickets are available on The Hinckley ACT website for £10 for members and £11 for non-members
More information about the band is available on the Dempsey Broughton Facebook and SoundCloud pages, as well as the duo’s website.