With their latest album In Winter, The Unthanks deliver a richly evocative experience that captures the complexity of the season—its light, its dark, and everything in between. The project, a dream long in the making, weaves together traditional folk, seasonal nostalgia, and the band’s signature melancholy to create a time capsule of winter. Sisters Rachel and Becky Unthank shared their insights into the inspiration and process behind the album, as well as what audiences can expect from their upcoming tour.
A Long-Standing Dream Realised
The idea for a winter-themed album had been simmering for years. “It’s something we’ve always wanted to do,” Rachel shared. “In our family, music is a huge part of Christmastime traditions. For instance, my dad helped revive a street play in Greatham when he was a teenager, and every Boxing Day, we go there to sort of reenact it. Afterward, we all head to the pub to sing songs—it’s just what we do. That spirit of togetherness and song is woven into the album.”
For Becky, creating In Winter was about capturing not just joy, but also the season’s emotional complexity. “There’s a lot of pressure for everyone to be happy during Christmas, which can feel overwhelming. I wanted the album to be soothing and warming but not shy away from the darkness of this time of year. Winter can be turbulent, both literally and emotionally, and this project was our way of reflecting that.”
An Immersive Recording Process
The album was recorded on the atmospheric North York Moors, an environment that perfectly matched its themes. “We’d already written the music during the tour, so when we found the studio, it felt fitting,” Rachel explained. The chilly landscape and the cosiness of being indoors mirrored the duality of the album. “We embraced the experience by cooking together, sharing wine, and creating a sense of comfort.”
Becky echoed this sentiment. “Being a family band, we treat everything we do as a full-life experience. It’s not just about making music—it’s about living together, whether we’re on the road, recording, or performing.”
Instrumentation and Arrangements
The band’s unconventional instrumentation plays a key role in creating their unique sound. “We have a core band, Adrian McNally on piano, Chris Price on guitars and Niopha Keegan on fiddle and vocals” Rachel noted, “but we bring in other musicians depending on the project. For this album, the vibraphone was a new addition, and its shimmering quality felt very wintry.”
This collaborative approach extends to the album’s structure. Becky revealed, “We started with a long list of over 30 songs and had to whittle it down. It’s always about finding balance—melancholy and hope, light and dark. We think of our albums as journeys, with a clear beginning, middle, and end.”
A Visual and Storytelling Focus
When asked if they imagine visuals while creating music, Becky offered an intriguing perspective. “I think more about the characters in the songs—who they are, what their lives are like, if they have a dog. It’s like making a little film in your head. It’s like a drama waiting to be told.”
Evolving Through Performance
The songs on In Winter were honed during a previous tour, shaping the final album and upcoming live performances. “Touring the songs first allowed us to test what worked,” Becky explained. “You learn what feels right on stage—maybe a song doesn’t need 15 verses, just five. It’s a great way to refine things.”
Rachel added, “Clog dancing didn’t make it onto the album—it’s a bit odd to include that on a record. But an Unthanks show wouldn’t be the same without it, so it’s very much part of the live experience.”
The Unthanks’ Winter Vision
In Winter is a celebration of the season in all its complexity. From the warmth of family traditions to the chill of isolation, The Unthanks capture the essence of winter with authenticity and care. Their unique sound, blending traditional folk with experimental touches, continues to resonate deeply with audiences.
As they prepare to tour the highly anticipated 16th album In Winter, fans can look forward to a faithful yet evolving representation of their winter wonderland. Whether it’s the shimmer of a vibraphone or the stomp of clogs, The Unthanks promise a performance as rich and layered as the season itself.
In Winter is out on 29th November and tickets are on sale now for their upcoming tour. See them at The Glasshouse on 3rd December!