New Light is the 2025 new album by Leeds-born folk singer Chris Brain. I am a big fan of his music, having seen him live last year and having his first two albums on virtual nonstop play I was really looking forward to this release.

Chris Brain is one of the new generation of English folk singer/guitarists working hard at establishing a name for themselves via the folk circuit, playing clubs and festivals across the UK. His love of nature shines through his music and this new album shows a continuing maturity and progression in his style.

Part recorded in his allotment shed, Brain follows in the footsteps of John Martyn, Bert Jansch and Nick Drake with his versatile finger picking technique, wonderfully apparent in Sun Did Glide.

Listening to Into the North takes you back to the feel of the sixties folk movement, it’s hard to exactly pinpoint his style which is refreshing, it is unique whilst having flashes of reminiscence and with this album you feel he has found his niche whilst opening up to more contributions from other instruments.

Released on Big Sun Records, the vinyl album comes with gatefold sleeve with printed lyrics and a choice of coloured vinyl; black or limited edition white or blue with streaming and downloads as standard. I prefer to order via Bandcamp which gives the artist the maximum amount and it’s the best way to find a limited edition. The cover photo was taken by Hannah Burgess and the rear cover artwork by Polly Burgess.

Featured musicians:

Vocals & Guitar: Chris Brain
Electric Guitar: Noiak Bedirian
Keys: Zoe Cure
Violin: Owen Spafford
Percussion: Finn Booth
Bass: Tom Orrell

You can order his album direct at: https://chrisbrain.bandcamp.com/album/new-light

See also: Chris Brain Folksinger