Death becomes her
I recently heard Mark Radcliffe on BBC 6 Music declare one of Frankie Archer’s songs as his favourite of the year so far. I can’t remember exactly which one, but, in truth, it could have been any number of tracks from her astonishing debut album. Blending electro-synth soundscapes, intricate fiddle loops, and her captivating vocal delivery, ‘The Dance of Death’ takes north-east traditional folk music and boldly thrusts it into the future. She manipulates her instrument, building complex layer upon layer to create songs that feel both heavy and hypnotic. It’s also thrilling to hear how she honours the storytelling roots of traditional material while completely shattering standard folk conventions. Tracks surge with dark electronic pulses, unexpected beats, and fiercely contemporary energy. Seeing her live at The Glasshouse feels like catching lightning in a bottle just before the rest of the world fully wakes up to what she’s doing. Expect an electrifying showcase from an artist expanding the boundaries of her genre—and a powerful reminder of just how vibrant the region’s musical landscape continues to be. DP
Frankie Archer, Sunday 27 September, The Glasshouse, 8pm, £18, theglasshouseicm.org
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