The Unthanks - medley

About This Footage

In the sweltering summer of 2010, a rare gem emerged from the archives of folk music. "The Unthanks - medley", a 7:05 clip of the British folk collective's live performance at SPACE in Evanston on July 7, 2010, is a treasure trove of traditional sounds and storytelling.

At the time of this filming, The Unthanks were riding high on the success of their critically acclaimed album "Last Winter's Bird", released just a year prior. This Northumbrian folk quartet - comprised of Rachel and Becky Unthank, Nickie Heaton, and Chris Dawson - had been making waves in the UK music scene with their unique blend of traditional folk, jazz, and pop influences.

This medley clip is notable not only for its rarity but also for its insight into The Unthanks' live performance style. The spacey acoustics of SPACE, a renowned music venue in Chicago's North Shore, provide an intimate setting for the band to showcase their intricate harmonies and arrangements. As they weave together two traditional folk tunes - "The Lad With The Trousers On" and "When The Tide Comes In" - the viewer is treated to a masterclass in vocal interplay and instrumental dexterity.

What makes this clip truly significant, however, lies in its documentation of a pivotal moment in The Unthanks' career. This performance took place during a period of intense creative exploration for the band, as they began to push the boundaries of traditional folk music with their innovative arrangements and eclectic influences. "The Unthanks - medley" offers a unique glimpse into this process, highlighting the band's ability to breathe new life into timeless folk melodies.

As a viewer watches this clip, they will be struck by the raw energy and emotional depth of The Unthanks' performance. The intricate harmonies, the lilting rhythms, and the poignant storytelling all come together to create an immersive experience that transports the listener to the world of traditional British folk. This is not just a rare clip; it's a window into the creative process of a remarkable band at a crucial moment in their career.

The Unthanks' music has always been characterized by its emotional authenticity and commitment to traditional storytelling. In this medley, they distill the essence of folk music - with all its joys and sorrows, triumphs and struggles - into a 7-minute tapestry of sound and song. As we watch The Unthanks perform on that sweltering summer evening in Evanston, we are reminded of the power of traditional music to connect us across time and space.

In an era where folk music has become increasingly homogenized and commercialized, "The Unthanks - medley" stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of traditional folk. This rare clip is not just a nostalgic reminder of a bygone era; it's a living, breathing document of a band that continues to push the boundaries of what folk music can be. As we watch The Unthanks weave their sonic magic in this medley, we are reminded of the beauty and simplicity of traditional music - and the enduring power of its stories to captivate and inspire us.

Curated from public records and music databases.