The Crooked North presents the latest in a series of music videos recorded live in studio. This one features the title track from their 2017 EP Unquiet Grave. The song is a reinterpretation of a traditional folk ballad. They use lyrics recorded in a songbook by Appalachian folk singer Jean Ritchie. Jon Itkin, guitarist and vocalist for the band and nationally known songwriter, told NYS Music about the differences between the classic and their adaptation:
(Richie’s) version of the song is an a cappella ballad, in three quarter time. It’s ghostly and very beautiful. Ours takes the mournful sadness of the lyric and channels it into a throbbing beat, with a lot of energy and a much more detailed musical arrangement.”
The video was recorded in the quaint and picturesque space at Temperamental Recordings. Located in Geneseo, this former church was converted into a recording studio by Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Mike Brown. Unquiet Grave was produced and mixed by Brown, and mastered by Grammy-winning musician/sound engineer Stephen Roessner. The recording sessions were captured on film by Clay O’Dell and his team at 33U Productions; Stephen S. Reardon shot the still photography. Costume and styling credits go to Beth Roberts, owner of Jane Vintage, a shop in Rochester’s South Wedge which specializes in period pieces. The resulting music video gives fans an intimate behind-the-scenes look at The Crooked North’s time in the studio.
The Crooked North carries on the traditions of bluegrass and folk music, refashioning them with progressive elements while retaining their fundamental roots. Pairing lush harmonies with toe-tapping melodies, they’ve been winning over the hearts of music lovers in their hometown of Rochester and beyond. The band features Ben Proctor (banjo, dobro, vocals), Jon Itkin (guitar, vocals), Rita Proctor (vocals, rhythm mandolin), and Jordan Kleiman (bass). Tahlia Cott plays fiddle for the band.
