A side project featuring members of the North Sea Radio Orchestra, this new duo brings explosive creativity and exceptional musicianship, exploring the boundaries between Renaissance, medieval, classical, folk, and contemporary music. As with all projects by Craig Fortnam — best known as the mastermind behind the ensemble — and Laurent Valero, who also took part in the critically acclaimed Robert Wyatt tribute Folly Bololey (Dark Companion, 2019) and has long collaborated with John Greaves, the result is both refined and adventurous. Blending Elizabethan and medieval influences with contemporary songwriting, the album showcases Fortnam’s signature style, making this debut a truly distinctive and memorable work. The arrangements move fluidly between intricate chamber passages and more intimate, song-based moments, with a strong attention to texture, atmosphere, and detail. The interplay between instruments creates a constantly shifting soundscape, at once delicate and richly layered, where ancient sonorities meet modern sensibilities. The hurdy-gurdy, played by James Larcombe, adds a distinctive medieval touch, further enriching the album’s tonal palette. Recorded in England and Italy and mastered at the legendary Elfo Studios by Alberto Callegari, Empty Vessels also features vocalist Annie Barbazza.
Max Marchini
