Hadrian's Union - In Your Own Time

Stew Simpson has been a songwriter for over ten years. Whilst developing his craft he has also been pursuing a moderately career as an extra and playing small parts in films. In 2009 he saw Danny Hart play a Showcase gig at Brampton Live festival and asked Danny to play on his forthcoming solo album. Before too long the solo album was ditched and Stew (vocals/guitar) and Danny Hart (fiddle/mandolin/guitar) had become the duo, Hadrian's Union. For some 'live' gigs and on this album they are joined by fretless bass player, Mike France.Fellside Records' boss, Paul Adams had known Stew from when Stew was an Art student in Carlisle and had kept an eye on his performing and songwriting. Paul, who has a reputation for spotting giving talent from Jez Lowe to Spiers & Boden their debut albums felt that since teaming up with the very talented, Danny, Stew's songs had developed and he had matured as a performer. The songs are 'contemporary folk songs' about the world we live in today based on traditional subjects like politics, love, work and observations of people. They are not quasi traditional songs, but songs written in a distinctive style which lifts them above countless other songs which attempt to follow a similar path. 'The Crack' magazine noted the pair weave many a tale and put plenty of passion behind it too, making for an utterly compelling listen. Coupled with their amiable personalities this album should set them well on their way.