
Yorkshire folk singer Jack Rutter has established himself as one of the standout voices of the folk, roots and acoustic music scene in recent years. A hugely engaging stage presence, his soaring vocal, powerhouse guitar and bouzouki playing and masterful arrangements of traditional songs and contemporary covers have enthralled audiences from the largest festival main stages to the most intimate folk clubs. His brand new studio album This Is Something Constant is released 27th October 2023.
This Is Something Constant is the final album of the trilogy which began with his acclaimed debut Hills in 2017 and continued with Gold of Scar and Shale (2019).
Produced by Joe Rusby, This is Something Constant continues his passionate unearthing of rare gems from the traditional folk treasure trove – from Child Ballads to songs collected by Cecil Sharp and songs from his native county – the dust well and truly blown from them and revamped in Rutter’s imaginative musical settings.
Stamping them with his trademark powerhouse guitar and bouzouki, multi-instrumentalist Jack also plays harmonica, concertina and harmonium on the release. He is joined by two celebrated guest musicians – pipes, whistles and flute legend Mike McGoldrick and renowned Scottish fiddle & viola player Patsy Reid.
Like its title This Is Something Constant celebrates the constancy of the folk tradition whilst steering it forward into a bright, popular and prominent new setting. The end result is a compelling and spellbinding showcase of gripping story ballads and upbeat festival-stage firecrackers, perfectly pitched and delivered with soaring, crystal clear vocals that breathe new life into ancient tales. For master singer and storyteller Rutter it brings his trilogy full circle and further cements his reputation as a singular performer and class act.
‘Singular and compelling; one of the finest singers in folk today.’ - Songlines
‘An outstanding performer.’ - The Independent
‘You always want an exciting new discovery at a festival, and for many it was Jack Rutter who provided just that. What prowess he showed in music, he matched with his skills as a raconteur; his love and respect for the songs in turn made the audience joyful.’
- Louder Than War Magazine reviewing Underneath the Stars Festival
‘In the spirit of the old traditional singers, Jack Rutter takes a song, shapes it, lives with it and brings out something unique. This album makes my heart sing.’
- Kathryn Tickell OBE, BBC Radio 3
‘One of the best albums of its kind in recent times.’ - Mark Radcliffe, BBC Radio 2 reviewing Gold of Scar & Shale