I had the genuine pleasure of witnessing an amazing performance by Hannah James at the 2017 English Folk Expo/Manchester Folk Festival when she performed JigDoll. Featuring music and dance from the album of the same name, it was a mesmerising show and a highlight of the festival. At last, we have the pleasure of sharing news of more of the same.

Described as ‘a true original’ by those lovely people at The Guardian, innovative musician and dancer Hannah James turns her attention to her most recent project The JigDoll Ensemble, announcing the release of their new album The Woman and Her Words on 4th October.

Recorded in Hungary, at the prestigious music venue/studio Budapest Music Centre, the album hosts an international line-up of musicians – András Dés (Hungary – Percussion); Marti Tärn (Estonia – Bass Guitar); Kate Young (Scotland – Fiddle / Vocals); Toby Kuhn (France – Cello). 

The new release is a celebration of ageing, gaining wisdom and of the many women who have delivered essential truths along the way. Artist and puppeteer Katarina Cakova, based on Hannah’s stories, created the physical form of ‘the woman’, which appears on the album cover. 

Says Hannah: “I deliberately put together this band of extraordinary musicians because, at this time, I feel it’s so important to keep international friendships strong. I have always felt European, not English, and this band is a celebration of that and an example of the great things that can emerge when people from different countries and backgrounds have the freedom to meet and work together”. 

Watch out for our album review coming soon. Meanwhile, the album tour starts on 4th October in Malvern, visiting major cities around the UK. Tour dates and ticket links here.

Hannah James online: Website, Facebook, Twitter