Topic Records

As part of Topic Records’ 85th anniversary, June Tabor & Oysterband’s 2011 album ‘Ragged Kingdom’ will be reissued on vinyl. We take a look back at the album that “raises the spirit and tears at the soul in turn.”

As part of their 85th anniversary, Topic Records reissue Martin Carthy’s self-titled debut solo album on vinyl – an iconic, almost peerless release, read why this album is as essential a listen now as it was in 1965.

Topic Records announce ‘Sea Song Sessions’, a collection of British maritime folk songs and sea shanties, featuring some of British folk music’s leading lights: Jon Boden, Seth Lakeman, Ben Nicholls, Emily Portman & Jack Rutter. Listen to the first single ‘The Rambling Sailor’.

The Sorrow Songs: Folk Songs of Black British Experience is the upcoming record by Angeline Morrison, releasing on Topic Records label and produced by Eliza Carthy. Listen to her first single – Unknown African Boy.

Whilst some may have stopped listening to words in songs, the strength of ‘The Reckoning’ lies in John Tams’ skill in building a strong connection between the words and music, it’s as good a demonstration as you’re likely to find.

What a great way to celebrate 80 years as Topic Records take over Barbican Hall for a celebration of its past and a milestone event setting the stage for the current and the new to come on board.

Featuring some of the best British & Irish Folk artists, Vision & Revision serves as a reminder of the enriching ways folk song lends itself to reinvention, and the idealists, innovators and romantics that have passed through their ranks….yet another testament to Topic’s enduring legacy.

Despite Dick Gaughan’s ‘Handful of Earth’ being released 38 years ago, these songs still reflect the times, still call out the oppressors and still support the oppressed.

To celebrate the reissue of Anne Briggs’ eponymous 1971 album we gave away a rare test pressing of the eponymous classic which was signed by Anne. And the winner is…

June Tabor launched her solo career with ‘Airs And Graces’, a record that remains one of the most essential folk music records of the 1970s and beyond. This Topic Records Deluxe CD re-issue features perfect sound and an abundance of treasures found within.

Even when surrounded by the nascent folk-rock of the Albion Band, Shirley’s voice rings out true, true to the tune and true to the song. It still rings out true today and what a most fitting album to present to a new generation to listen to and learn from.

All-in-all, this is one of the most significant recordings of the period. A tribute to the recording techniques of Sean Davies and the production of AL Lloyd, a tribute to the work of Topic Records and a tribute to Anne Briggs. This is music to pass on to the next generations.

What’s significant about Martin Simpson’s ‘Prodigal Son’ is that although outstanding tracks abound, this really is the one where it all came together. If you haven’t heard it, you should. If you have, you should revisit it.

Topic Records, the oldest independent label in the world will celebrate its 80th anniversary in 2019 which will be marked by a flurry of new releases, deluxe re-issues and more. Listen to a special playlist plus we have a Topic 2019 Calendar to Giveaway.

Next month, Vinyl180 will release two very special albums in their Topic Records Introduction series – A double LP Real Sound Of Folk Compilation and Shirley Collins – An Introduction To. We have copies to giveaway and a special discount offer for all Folk Radio UK readers.

Topic Records announce two new CD releases on 20th October 2017. A double-CD 28 track compilation (Topic Records: The Real Sound of Folk Music) featuring some of the most remarkable singers, songs and tunes and An Introduction to Shirley Collins.

An exhibition exploring the history of Topic Records, at Barbican Centre Music Library. We also have a ticket competition for two very special live events – featuring Eliza Carthy, in conversation with journalist Colin Irwin and Topic’s David Suff (plus acoustic performance) and an evening of the same featuring two supreme folk guitarists, Martin Carthy & Martin Simpson.

Topic Records Announce Two New Volumes in ‘Voice of the People’ Series – It was mighty! and It was great altogether! – charting Irish traditional music in London during the 1950’s and 60’s. The release will be marked by a very special lecture by Dr. Reg Hall.