Late British Artist’s Unearthly Folk Album Resurfaces, Paying Tribute to Her Inspiring Life
In a remarkable discovery, the late British artist Charlotte Greig’s folk album, Night Visiting Songs, has resurfaced and is now being released on vinyl for the first time. This long-awaited release serves as a tribute to Greig’s inspiring life and her immense talent. The album was recorded in 1998, after Greig had put her young son to bed, using a four-track cassette recorder and an idiosyncratically programmed drum machine.
Night Visiting Songs carries a unique and ethereal quality, reminiscent of the works of influential artists such as Anne Briggs, Nico, and the Young Marble Giants. The album features simple versions of folk songs and original compositions that explore themes of love and encounters with otherworldly entities. Its textures and rhythms captivate listeners with their unearthly beauty and sincerity.
To further honor Greig’s musical legacy, a set of cover versions by renowned artists such as James Yorkston, Alasdair Roberts, Euros Childs, and Katell Keineg is also being released on Bandcamp. These artists pay homage to Greig’s incredible talents and the profound impact she had on the music industry. The release of Night Visiting Songs serves as a timely reminder of Greig’s multifaceted artistry.
James Yorkston, a fellow musician, vividly recalls his first encounter with Night Visiting Songs in 2002. The songs Searching for Lambs and Lucy Wan resonated deeply with him, moving him to tears. Yorkston describes Greig’s vocal delivery as upfront and fragile, conveying a profound sense of humanity. He likens Greig’s style to that of Alice Coltrane and Molly Drake, artists who also prioritized personal expression and disregarded commercial considerations.
Greig’s journey as an artist was incredibly diverse, reflecting her fearlessness in breaking boundaries. Throughout her career, she ventured into various realms, from creating hip-hop mixtapes with the rap crew F-F-F-Female Force to writing music journalism. Her love for folk music flourished during the 1990s, and she went on to create five tender albums that showcased her unique talent and artistic vision.
According to her husband, John Williams, Greig found solace and freedom in music, particularly after becoming a mother. She embraced the expressive nature of hip-hop and discovered that folk music was an avenue for personal exploration. Music became a healing process for Greig, allowing her to transform painful experiences into something beautiful.
Tragically, Greig’s life was cut short when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013, passing away nine months later at the age of 59. Despite her untimely departure, her musical legacy continues to resonate with audiences. Williams plans to release Greig’s other albums on vinyl, but he emphasizes that Night Visiting Songs holds a special place in her discography.
In the liner notes for the album, Williams reflects on the comfort that can be found in human experiences and the connections between loved ones, even after death. Greig’s songs offer a similar spirit of communication, allowing listeners to feel her presence as they listen to her music. Night Visiting Songs is a testament to the enduring power of Greig’s artistry, captivating audiences with its haunting melodies and heartfelt lyrics.
Night Visiting Songs, along with Greig’s other albums, will be released on August 14th via Harmonium Records. Fans and music enthusiasts alike can immerse themselves in the unearthly and enchanting world created by this remarkable British artist.
