We recently shared the news that Bonnie’Prince’ Billy was returning on 15th November with a new album titled “I Made A Place“. It’s his first album of originals since 2011’s Wolfroy Goes To Town. “In good faith” is a slow and moving number on which he is joined by Joan Shelly who sings the title as a repeated refrain while Bonnie brings the spirit forward with the words between and Nathan Salsburg contributes lyric lead guitar lines, making for a luminescent, languid song of acceptance and faith in something bigger, open and questioning despite all the slings and arrows.
The video, which was directed by Timothy Morton, features scenes from a documentary Morton is currently making about the living tradition of Sacred Harp singing. Those of you that are familiar with the likes of Cath and Phil Tyler or Tim Eriksen will be familiar with this tradition. The accompanying press for the video draws parallels between both this tradition and the intention of the lyrics…
This acapella form of choral singing is rooted in early American history, and over the past several centuries has attracted diverse participants across our vast geography and entwined cultures. The Sacred Harp gatherings are open to all, with participants often traveling long distances, to contribute in any form they wish. Shape-note singing is a participatory form of folk music that is not commercialized, as it is ultimately just a part of the daily living of those who participate.
With Will and Joan’s palliative vocals guiding the way, the contributors are seen living their lives, waiting and ready to deliver their abilities in all that they do for themselves and their community “in good faith.”
Visit www.singtheshapes.com for more information on Sacred Harp Singers by documentary-maker Tim Morton.
I Made A Place is available to pre-order on Dom Mart exclusive deluxe LP (coloured vinyl w/ 7”), deluxe LP (coloured vinyl), standard LP, CD and digital download. A T-shirt bundle with LP or CD is also available. Pre–order: All Mart | Digital.