Indie-folk band Velvet & Stone have followed up their well-received self-titled 2019 album with new single ‘Jeni’, a dynamic song of relationship struggles and fading love. The song builds in instrumental layers, gathering energy and purpose. Multi-instrumentalist Josiah Manning, who also plays guitar, piano and banjuitar, delivers powerfully propulsive drums, driving the song onwards. Another highlight of ‘Jeni’ is Kathryn Tremlett’s violin display, which is truly impressive; by the end of the song, her fingers are dancing on the violin’s neck while her bow flickers back and forth with tremendous urgency. Alongside Tremlett’s strings, the voice of Lara Snowdon, buoyed by Simon Thresh’s delicate harmonies, is characterful and engaging, with a gorgeous tone. It is the combination of the two front-women, violin and vocal, that make Velvet & Stone stand out as a band.
In the video, created by Abbie Barton Music and Brand Photography, we see the pair playing outdoors before an idyllic rural backdrop; the landscapes are as beautiful as the music. Velvet & Stone have honed their performance skills at shows and festivals, such as Cambridge Folk Festival and Celtic Connections, and their music has received airplay and critical acclaim across BBC radio. Their sound is rooted in traditional folk, but with hints of country and pop sensibilities, resulting in a contemporary feel and a focus on melody. ‘Jeni’ certainly delivers a catchy, memorable tune that showcases the band’s intimate personal lyrics. Well worth checking out. Enjoy.
