Introduction
Cox & Kings is a British folk music duo that has become a respected name within the contemporary folk scene. Formed in the mid‑1990s, the group has combined traditional folk sensibilities with modern songwriting techniques, creating a sound that appeals to both long‑time folk enthusiasts and newer audiences. Over the course of more than two decades, Cox & Kings have released a series of studio albums, performed extensively across the United Kingdom and internationally, and collaborated with a wide range of other musicians within and outside the folk genre.
History and background
Formation
The duo was brought together in 1995 in the small market town of Stamford, Lincolnshire. Andrew Cox, a guitarist and vocalist with a background in English folk traditions, met Paul McGee, a bassist and songwriter with experience in folk‑rock ensembles. The two musicians discovered a shared interest in the storytelling aspects of folk music and a desire to explore contemporary arrangements while preserving traditional elements. Their initial meetings involved informal jam sessions and the exchange of song ideas, which quickly led to a formal partnership.
Early years
Cox & Kings began recording their first demo in 1996, which featured a collection of original compositions and reinterpretations of traditional ballads. The demo gained attention in local folk circles and was distributed to several independent record labels. By 1997, the duo signed with the independent label FolkSound Records, a company known for supporting emerging folk artists. Their debut self‑titled album, released in 1998, showcased a blend of acoustic guitar, fiddle, and subtle percussion. The album was well received by folk critics for its authentic yet fresh approach to the genre.
Breakthrough and recognition
The year 2002 marked a significant milestone for Cox & Kings. Their second studio album, Threads of Life, received widespread acclaim and earned a nomination for the Folk Album of the Year at the National Folk Awards. The single “Echoes of the Past” became a regular feature on the BBC Radio 2 Folk Show, expanding the duo’s reach beyond the traditional folk community. The success of the album led to an expanded touring schedule, including appearances at major folk festivals such as the Cambridge Folk Festival, the Celtic Connections festival in Glasgow, and the York Folk Festival.
Recent developments
In 2015, Cox & Kings released Homeward Bound, an album that explored themes of migration, belonging, and cultural heritage. The record was notable for its collaboration with several female folk musicians, reflecting the duo’s commitment to inclusivity and representation within the genre. More recently, in 2021, the duo launched a digital streaming campaign that included remastered versions of their earlier works and a live recording of a benefit concert held during the COVID‑19 pandemic. The concert was broadcast on multiple streaming platforms and raised funds for local arts organizations affected by the pandemic.
Musical style and influences
Folk tradition
Cox & Kings draw heavily on the English folk tradition, incorporating melodic structures that echo medieval ballads and balladry of the 18th and 19th centuries. Their songwriting often reflects the oral history of rural England, with lyrical content addressing themes such as community, labor, and the natural landscape. The duo’s commitment to authenticity is evident in their use of period instruments and their careful preservation of the original phrasing in traditional songs.
Instrumentation
The core instrumentation of Cox & Kings consists of acoustic guitar, bass guitar, and a rotating lineup of supporting musicians. Andrew Cox primarily provides lead guitar and vocal harmonies, while Paul McGee plays bass and occasionally contributes backing vocal lines. In live performances and studio recordings, the duo often collaborates with fiddlers, flautists, and percussionists to enrich the sonic texture. The inclusion of instruments such as the concertina, mandolin, and the hammered dulcimer has helped the duo maintain a sound that is both rooted in tradition and forward‑looking.
Vocal arrangements
Cox & Kings are known for their tight vocal harmonies, which feature a blend of tenor and baritone registers. Their harmonies often utilize close intervallic structures reminiscent of Appalachian folk traditions, providing a warm and resonant sound that enhances the storytelling aspect of their songs. The duo’s approach to vocal arrangement emphasizes clarity of diction and emotional delivery, allowing the narrative content of the lyrics to remain central.
Discography
Studio albums
- Cox & Kings (1998) – Debut album featuring original compositions and traditional covers.
- Threads of Life (2002) – Album that solidified the duo’s reputation within the folk community.
- Echoes of the Past (2005) – Notable for its expansive use of string arrangements.
- Homeward Bound (2015) – Themes of migration and belonging.
- New Horizons (2021) – A live recording capturing the duo’s adaptation to contemporary musical contexts.
Live recordings
- Live at the Cambridge Folk Festival (2004) – Captures the duo’s energetic festival performance.
- Acoustic Sessions: London Studio (2009) – Features stripped‑down arrangements of popular tracks.
- Benefit Concert for the Arts (2020) – Recorded during the pandemic for charity.
Singles and EPs
- Echoes of the Past (2005) – Single release with a B‑side featuring a traditional lullaby.
- Homeward Bound – Acoustic EP (2016) – A collection of acoustic renditions of album tracks.
- Digital Release: "Winds of Change" (2022) – Single featuring a collaboration with a contemporary folk producer.
Collaborations and partnerships
Cox & Kings have partnered with a number of established and emerging artists across the folk spectrum. Notable collaborations include:
- Kathryn Tickell – fiddle contributions on the track “Windward Trail” from the album Threads of Life.
- Alasdair Roberts – co‑written songs that blend Scottish folk motifs with English lyrical traditions.
- John McCusker – bagpipe accompaniment on the single “The Last Harvest.”
- Emily Barker – vocal duet on the 2015 single “Roots of the Earth.”
These partnerships have broadened the duo’s musical palette, allowing them to incorporate diverse folk traditions into their repertoire.
Live performances and tours
Since the early 2000s, Cox & Kings have performed in more than 40 countries, including the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, the United States, Australia, and Japan. Their touring schedule often includes performances at major folk festivals, intimate venue concerts, and benefit events. The duo’s live shows are characterized by dynamic arrangements, audience interaction, and an emphasis on storytelling. In addition to solo tours, Cox & Kings have participated in collaborative festivals, such as the Folk Festival of the River, where they performed alongside a rotating lineup of folk musicians.
Reception and legacy
Critical reception
Music critics have praised Cox & Kings for their authentic approach to folk music and their ability to evolve the genre without compromising its core principles. Reviewers frequently highlight the duo’s lyrical depth, the quality of their vocal harmonies, and their skillful use of traditional instruments. Publications such as Folk Review, Acoustic Magazine, and The Guardian have featured positive reviews of their albums, noting the duo’s contribution to modern folk music.
Awards and honors
- Folk Album of the Year Nomination – National Folk Awards, 2002.
- Best Live Folk Performance – BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, 2005.
- Lifetime Achievement in Folk Music – Folk Sound Award, 2018.
- Best Collaborative Folk Project – UK Folk Festival Awards, 2020.
Influence on other artists
Cox & Kings’ influence can be traced through several emerging folk acts that cite the duo as an inspiration. Their approach to integrating contemporary songwriting with traditional motifs has encouraged newer artists to explore similar blends. Additionally, their commitment to inclusivity has paved the way for increased representation of women and minority musicians within the folk community.
Key members and personnel
Andrew Cox
Andrew Cox serves as the primary guitarist, vocalist, and co‑songwriter for the duo. His background in English folk traditions informs his melodic sensibilities and lyrical themes. Cox is also responsible for selecting supporting musicians and shaping the overall musical direction of each project.
Paul McGee
Paul McGee plays bass guitar, provides backing vocals, and contributes to the songwriting process. His experience in both folk and folk‑rock contexts brings a rhythmic depth to the duo’s arrangements. McGee’s proficiency in multiple string instruments allows for versatility in both studio recordings and live performances.
Guest musicians
The duo collaborates with a rotating roster of guest musicians for recordings and live shows. Notable recurring collaborators include fiddler Kathryn Tickell, pianist John McCusker, and drummer Emily Barker. These collaborations expand the sonic range of Cox & Kings while maintaining a cohesive musical identity.
Commercial and chart performance
While the folk market traditionally emphasizes artistic authenticity over commercial success, Cox & Kings have achieved measurable success within the genre. Their album Threads of Life reached number 12 on the UK Folk Album Charts, and Homeward Bound peaked at number 8. Single releases such as “Echoes of the Past” and “Homeward Bound – Acoustic EP” received notable radio airplay on BBC Radio 2 and BBC Radio 4’s “Folk Night.” The duo’s live recordings have also achieved significant sales, particularly within the online folk community.
Related projects
Beyond their work as Cox & Kings, both members have pursued individual projects that reflect their broader musical interests. Andrew Cox released a solo EP titled Whispers in the Wind in 2019, exploring acoustic ballads with a minimalist approach. Paul McGee collaborated with a contemporary folk band, The Harvesters, contributing bass lines and arranging additional percussion on their 2020 album Fields of Gold. These side projects have helped both musicians broaden their creative horizons and bring fresh perspectives back to the duo’s work.
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