Hennesea

Emerging from the vibrant musical town of Malvern in Worcestershire, Hennesea is a five-piece new-folk rock band that has captivated audiences with their electrifying live performances and captivating sound. Their music, a harmonious blend of original new folk compositions and timeless covers, is a testament to their passion for creating music that resonates with listeners. Hennesea’s origins can be traced back to 2011 when Anna Watts and Jane Devereaux embarked on a musical journey together. Their first release, an EP titled “Lost for Words,” showcased Anna’s songwriting prowess with six original tracks. Soon thereafter, the duo was joined by Mark Keene on guitar and Garry Low on drums and percussion, forming the core of the band. Mark and Garry have been integral to Hennesea’s sound, providing a solid foundation for their music. In 2013, Hennesea released their second EP, Shine On, adding a touch of rock influence to their already dynamic sound. This EP marked a turning point for the band, showcasing their versatility and ability to seamlessly blend genres. Their debut full-length album, Book of Life, was released in 2015, showcasing their musical maturity and ability to craft cohesive and captivating songs. The album features a baker’s dozen of eclectic ensemble pieces, ranging from the winsome title track to the majestic Light Above the Sea, featuring Martin Furey of The High Kings on backing vocals and flute. Garry Low, a skilled recording engineer, has been responsible for engineering and producing Hennesea’s releases, ensuring that their music is captured with the utmost clarity and precision. With the addition of guest musicians, Hennesea ventured into new musical territories, embracing both folk and blues influences. Their third EP, One Fine Day, released in the summer of 2014, further demonstrated their adaptability and willingness to explore new sonic landscapes. In 2016, Ralph Tittley joined Hennesea on bass guitar and backing vocals, further solidifying the band’s lineup. With Ralph on board, Hennesea embarked on a series of successful gigs and festivals, including the BBC stage at Lakefest, Mappfest, Sunshine Festival, Malvern Rocks and Cwm Fest. Their latest album, Laced with Gold, was released in January 2021, showcasing their continued growth and evolution as a musical force. The album features the singles The Same Tune and Faisons Comme Si, further solidifying their reputation as a band that delivers high-quality music that resonates with listeners. Since 2019, Hennesea has been joined on stage by Rob Murray Mason, who began as the group’s sound mixer but quickly transitioned into playing percussion and providing backing vocals. Rob’s addition has added a new dimension to Hennesea’s live sound, further enhancing their dynamic performances. Hennesea has forged a strong chemistry that translates into their live performances, creating an electrifying atmosphere for their devoted fans. Hennesea’s musical journey continues to unfold, with each performance and release adding another chapter to their story. Their dedication to creating music that is both captivating and heartfelt ensures that they will continue to inspire and connect with audiences for years to come.