Skinny Lister have a knack for capturing both the rowdy spirit of live punk and the reflective warmth of folk traditions. Their latest single, “Song From The Yonder,” perfectly encapsulates that blend. As the title track from the upcoming album Songs From The Yonder—due for release on 9 May 2025 via Xtra Mile Recordings—the track steps neatly into spring with a burst of energy and soul.
A proper duet, “Song From The Yonder” finds Dan Heptinstall and Lorna trading vocals as naturally as old friends chatting over drinks. Dan explains that the song is really about longing—the journey of travelling far only to return to the heartbeat of home—and about rising above everyday squabbles to cherish the bonds that hold us together. There’s something refreshingly honest about their conversational approach, which recalls the duelling vocal style they’d once explored with “George’s Glass” on Down On Deptford Broadway, while also evoking the wistful, ‘end of the night’ charm of a track like “Six Whiskies.”
Musically, the track is a dynamic tapestry of swaying Celtic arrangements. It carries the vibrant spirit of folk clubs where Skinny Lister cut their teeth, with every instrument adding a layer of authenticity. The distinctive Skinny Lister accordion anchors the sound, while longtime collaborator Roger Wilson’s fiddle weaves in a familiar, heartfelt touch. Add to that Sean Spicer’s whistle, and you get a track that feels like an old sea shanty updated for today—a perfect backdrop for themes of seafaring, travel, and those long, raucous nights spent with friends.
The upcoming album Songs From The Yonder promises more of that classic Skinny Lister magic. Fans can expect to hear the band’s signature themes—drinking, roaming, and the enduring spirit of overcoming adversity—reflected throughout the record. Produced and mixed by Dan Heptinstall, and mastered at the iconic Abbey Road Studios by Frank Arkwright, the album is recorded with a raw, live edge. The band intentionally left many of the core tracks unedited to capture the ferocious energy they’re known for on stage.
For those eager to experience Skinny Lister in person, the band has an exciting run of release week shows and in-store appearances lined up across the UK. Early dates include stops in Bristol, Bridlington, Liverpool, and Nottingham, with further touring across the UK and Europe slated for later in the year. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their stirring sound, these live performances are sure to showcase the communal spirit and authenticity that have defined Skinny Lister since their debut.
Coinciding with the release, the Skinnies will be hitting the road for a run of instores and shows throughout release week. Expect further touring of the UK and Europe to come later in the year. The confirmed dates so far are as follows:
MAY
7 - Rough Trade Bristol - instore
9 - Yorkshire Belle, Bridlington – album/ticket bundle - SOLD OUT
10 - Jacaranda, Liverpool - instore
11 - Stowmarket, John Peel Centre – album/ticket bundle
12 - Brighton Resident – instore
13 - Banquet, Kingston – outstore at Fighting Cocks
14 - Rough Trade, Nottingham – instore
16 - Holmfirth, Picturedrome – album/ticket bundle
17 - Bedford, Esquires - album/ticket bundle
23 - Lyme Regis, Marine Theatre
24 - Monmouth DeVauden Festival
SUMMER FESTIVALS
JUNE
1 - Wychwood Festival, Cheltenham
14 – Beardy Folk Festival
20 – Sign Of The Times, Herts.
JULY
6 – The Gate To Southwell, Southwell
11 – Moonbeams Festival
19 – Summer Nights By The Sea, Bexhill-On-Sea
AUGUST
2 – Northern Kin Festival
3 – Doune The Rabbit Hole
9 – Doncaster, GIAF7
23 – Volk Im Schloss Festival, Germany
SEPTEMBER
26 – Blackpool, Waterloo
27 – Lost Evenings Festival, Edinburgh
Collectors and die-hard fans will also find something special: the album is available on coloured vinyl, CD, and digitally, while five extra CD formats—each boasting unique artwork reminiscent of old seaside postcards (courtesy of John Davison from Cartoons From The Pit) and a bonus acoustic track—offer a tangible slice of the band’s creative journey.
With “Song From The Yonder,” Skinny Lister remind us why they remain at the forefront of folk-punk. Their ability to blend nostalgic storytelling with a forward-thinking optimism makes every track a journey worth embarking on. As they look back to their roots while embracing the future, there’s plenty to anticipate from the new album and the tour ahead. If you’re ready for a heartfelt conversation set against a raucous, musical backdrop, Skinny Lister are poised to deliver an experience that feels both timeless and entirely their own.
SKINNY LISTER - NEW SINGLE "SONG FROM THE YONDER" - OUT 25 APRIL
NEW ALBUM: ‘SONGS FROM THE YONDER’ - OUT 9 MAY - PRE-SAVE HERE
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