This is the first in a new playlist series where we ask an artist/s to share music that has inspired them or personal favourites that they just can’t live without. Much like our Off the Shelf feature, the choices can be pretty revealing, fascinating and often unexpected.
Our first is with Outliers: Jenny Sturgeon and Boo Hewerdine, who are also our Artists of the Month. Their new album, Outliers, is out now on Hudson Records and can ordered here. Read our album review here.
The fact that Outliers was conceived and recorded entirely online, without the use of a physical studio, might make you think that it is likely to sound scratchy or thrown together, but in fact, the opposite is true. The novel way of recording seems to have focussed both artists, and the attention to detail on this album is remarkable. It has also resulted in an incredible clarity of sound, where both participants’ contributions are clearly defined and yet entirely in accord. Sturgeon and Hewerdine’s collaboration may have been remote, but it feels astonishingly close. Exceptional.
Thomas Blake, Folk Radio
Outliers: Jenny Sturgeon and Boo Hewerdine
outlier
/ˈaʊtlʌɪə/
noun
plural noun: outliers
- an observation (person, thing or fact) that is situated away or detached from the main body or system so that it cannot be used to draw general conclusions
- a place that is far from the main part of something
Reflections #1: Playlist
Jenny
A Winged Victory for the Sullen – Keep It Dark, Deutschland
This is the band that Boo and I first chatted about. We love the space and piano-heavy atmospheres AWVFTS create.
The Breath – Land Of My Other
Ríoghnach Connolly’s voice is sublime. The Breath’s songs connect with something musically grounding and the tonal warmth through this album is like coming home.
Bonny Light Horseman – Magpie’s Nest
I played this album on repeat throughout 2020 and it reminds me of sunny days sitting in the garden and writing songs with Boo.
Fergus McCreadie – Jig
The jazz scene in Scotland is buzzing with incredible players. This track makes me want to dance.
Arooj Aftab – Mohabbat
Another one of my favourite records from the last few years. Mohabbat is a stunning track from Arooj Aftab’s album Vulture Princess. I really enjoy the instrumentation on this track, which so beautifully accompanies Arooj’s incredible voice.
Boo
Gui Boratto – Chromophopia
A Brazilian electronic artist who I really like. This is the title track on his first album. His sounds and handle on dynamics are great. Luckily, you will never have to witness me “dancing” to this.
Jo Stafford – No Other Love
Sonically, this record moves me as much as the song (based on a Chopin piece) and brilliant vocal. With Outliers, we were exploring Old-Fi, if you will. I just made that up…
Patience & Prudence – Tonight You Belong To Me
It doesn’t matter how narked you are, this will instantly make you think twice about slamming doors and you’ll greet even your arch nemesis with a benevolent chuckle…
Ron Sexsmith – God Loves Everyone
I clench my fists in jealous rage at the heartbreaking beauty Ron can effortlessly conjure. It’s just NOT FAIR.
Mulatu Astatke – Tezeta
If I ever feel a bit odd and out of body, I listen to this. It’s strange and beautiful and I’m not sure why!
Jenny Sturgeon and Boo Hewerdine Tour Dates
February 2024
7 Eden Court INVERNESS
8 Theatre PERTH
9 Wrecking Ball HULL
10 Community Centre WADSWORTH
11 Cornerhouse SURBITON
12 The Prince Albert STROUD
13 Kitchen Garden BIRMINGHAM
Listen and order Outliers – https://hudsonrecords.ffm.to/outliers
Boo Hewerdine: https://boohewerdine.com/
Jenny Sturgeon: https://www.jennysturgeonmusic.com/