The magic of live music was alive and thriving at Folk at the Froize as the phenomenal Scottish folk trio – a Folk at the Salt House returned for what would be the final performance before David Grimwood and the team take a well-earned break to plan the next exciting chapter of this treasured event.
With a packed venue, standing room only for some, the atmosphere was electric as Ewan MacPherson, Jenny Sturgeon, and the newest member, Anna Hughes, took to the stage. They opened the night with All Shall Be Still, setting the tone beautifully with Ewan’s evocative lead vocals and the stunning harmonies of Jenny and Anna.
From there, the audience was treated to an enchanting blend of storytelling and song. Headwater, inspired by and featuring in the documentary Riverwoods, which paints a powerful picture of Scotland’s wild salmon and their changing environment. Anna then took centre stage to introduce a hauntingly beautiful song inspired by the mass shellfish wash-up near Whitby—a poignant reminder of nature’s fragility.
The lively Sister’s Revenge, based on the book by Robert Buchanan, had the crowd engaged. Jenny later took the lead on a song that had the audience singing along, filling the space with voices united in melody.
The night continued with breathtaking moments: the dreamy Snow Walking captured the quiet magic of moonlit footsteps in the snow with a loved one, and the deeply moving William and Elsie told the tale of a lover returning from beyond the grave. Waiting for Summer brought a soothing, pastoral charm, inspired by the sight of cows grazing on the town moor.
The band effortlessly wove together tracks from their newer and older albums, culminating in a spellbinding finale with Mountain of Gold, followed by the uplifting Fire Light, a song full of hope and warmth.
And of course, it wouldn’t be a Folk at the Froize event without an extraordinary feast to match the music! David Grimwood and his team outdid themselves once again, offering a menu that delighted the senses—succulent Suffolk beef, sweet and sour pork, rabbit, chicken with leeks, and a delicious roasted vegetable tagine. To top it off, decadent puddings including boozy trifle, apple crumble, and berry topped pannacotta ensured that no one left unsatisfied.
It was a night of exceptional musicianship, warm camaraderie, and sensational food—a perfect send-off for Folk at the Froize as it takes a well-earned pause. We can’t wait to see what’s next for this treasured gathering of music, stories, and community spirit!
Psst! – A little bird tells me that you will only have to wait until September before the new season of fantastic musical evenings will start again…… and the programme is looking awesome!
