Totnes came to life last night to celebrate the release of local folk duo Harbottle & Jonas's new album, Wild Goose. The launch was held at St Mary’s Church, right in the heart of the town. Arriving at 7pm, I found the place packed with excitement and anticipation, with a mix of familiar and new faces all gathered with a common purpose in this wonderful location.
Chatting with David before the show, he mentioned they had played a couple of album launch events in June (Cornwall and London), but tonight’s show was considered the official launch party since it was in Totnes. I also spoke with Freya before the show, and we talked about her pregnancy (their second baby is due at the end of August) and how well the previous shows had been received, but that tonight felt especially significant.
With three acts on the bill, the evening's entertainment kicked off promptly.
Wild Goose Choir
Opening the evening was the South Brent-based Wild Goose Choir, led by Freya, singing her arrangements of several bird-themed songs, which sounded sublime inside the church. Their voices and harmonies blended beautifully, filling every corner of the building.
Katie Whitehouse
Singer songwriter Katie Whitehouse then took to the stage, performing exquisite songs from her debut album, Drawing Lines. She was joined by Dan Whitehouse (no relation) on guitar and synths, adding depth and texture to her beautiful compositions. I chatted with Katie after her performance, and she mentioned that until recording the album (produced by Dan), she had not performed in public much. Her recent tour (this being the final date) had boosted her confidence and given her a newfound appetite for live shows. I can't wait to see her perform more locally.
Harbottle & Jonas
The main event was well worth the wait. David and Freya delivered songs from the new album and drew from their rich back catalog to keep all fans happy. Their between-song banter was amusing and heartfelt, showcasing their natural and genuine on-stage chemistry. Freya spoke about her forthcoming delivery and how excited their daughter is about it. As a father of two grown-up children myself, I remember the look on my eldest’s face when his younger brother arrived at home - magical times! David and Freya were joined by the choir for the final number, the album's title track, providing a glorious end to the night.
The evening was one to savour, celebrating a new body of work that has enriched many and received well-deserved acclaim. The Guardian reviewed Wild Goose, describing the duo as “a cosmic, contemporary Fairport Convention.” David and Freya can now rest on their laurels for a while as they take a break to welcome their new baby, but will surely return to the scene when the time is right.
