Talking with Strangers (Gonzo Multimedia, 2013)
Talking with Strangers is an album that originally came out in 2009. The 2013 edition, reviewed here, contains two bonus tracks and features a different cover design. The album brings together the wonderful voice of celebrated English folk music singer Judy Dyble and musicians from other genres, including progressive rock.
Throughout the album Judy Dyble (who is best known as the lead vocalist of pioneering folk band Fairport Convention) engages in mesmerizing duets with the absorbing vocals of Tim Bowness (No Man, Henry Fool).
Musically, Talking with Strangers has some elements of folk music, but what makes it special is the progressive rock connection. Some have called this recording prog folk. Whatever you want to call it, it’ is a superb album with a well-crafted balance between the vocals and the exquisite instrumentation. The lengthy ‘Harpsong’ was adapted from an autobiographical poem of Judy’s life and brought together musicians from her past and present. It includes an impressive King Crimsonesque instrumental passage. The bonus tracks present a dreamier aspect of Dyble’s music with ambient sounds, mellotron and psychedelic influences.
The 2013 version presents cover art and booklet illustrations by design by Jackie Morris. The first edition of the album showcased the artwork of 1960s psychedelic artist John Hurford and inner sleeve illustration by U.S.-based Spanish artist Koldo Barroso, who used to run a well-known progressive rock fanzine back in Spain.
According to her label, Gonzo Records, Judy is working with Alistair Murphy on a new album titled Flow and Change, scheduled for release this year.
Talking with Strangers is an outstanding album that will appeal to both the folk music and progressive rock fans with its superb mix of inspired vocals, imaginative lyrics and skilled instrumental work.
Buy Talking with Strangers in North America
Buy Talking with Strangers in Europe