INTERVIEW: Indie Folk from Ali George

Ali George is a Bath-based singer-songwriter with a penchant for intricate fingerstyle guitar work and soul-stirring vocals, who’s been a stalwart in the southwest English folk scene for two decades. Influenced deeply by the likes of Bon Iver, Nick Drake and John Martyn, George’s music exudes a timeless quality that captures the essence of folk storytelling.

Ali George’s talent has not gone unnoticed; he’s secured a coveted place in the Permanent Collection of the British National Library, a showcase of his enduring musical prowess. He’s also shared stages with some of the biggest names in the folk world, including Martin Simpson, Steve Tilston, Nick Harper and Rory McLeod.

Now, George returns with his latest offering, Watchful Days. This album is the third instalment of a trilogy, produced in collaboration with Josh Clark, the drummer for folk legend Kate Rusby. Watchful Days dives deep into themes of love, betrayal and isolation, via a fusion of soulful vocals, poignant lyrics and intricate guitar arrangements that capture the alluring essence George’s musical offering. The album features the artful touch of Beth Porter, an award-winning cellist and the rhythmic foundation provided by Josh Clark.

“Hard to Find,” the opening track, sets the tone for the album. It begins with George’s impressive acoustic guitar work, gently drawing listeners into his world. As his velvety vocals enter, you’re embraced by the warm, comforting sound of a seasoned artist who effortlessly marries slick musicianship with timeless songwriting.

“Land or Gold” continues the journey with a rhythmic interplay of acoustic guitar and the subtle patter of percussion. George’s vocals, smooth and inviting, guide you through a narrative woven with emotion and reflection. “Little Prophecy” takes a poignant turn, painting an atmospheric folk portrait that lingers in your thoughts long after the song ends. “Can We Keep On Healing?” invites you on a mesmerising journey through an enchanting folk landscape. The song’s delicate guitar and string backing provide a rich backdrop for George’s engaging melodies and profound lyrics. “Ferns” slows the tempo, offering a beautiful ballad that soothes with gentle guitar plucks and transportive lyrics.

The album’s final track, “Let Me Down Gently,” sees George’s voice descend to a smouldering depth, delivering emotive lyrics with a hushed intensity, crafting a dreamy and poignant conclusion to this truly magical album. Watchful Days offers a sonic documentation of the artist’s journey through challenging times. Written during a period of upheaval in Ali George’s life, it distils the strange and disquieting moments that come with significant life changes. The album serves as a tribute to the memory of his partner’s mother, a bittersweet homage to a life lived and loved.

We caught up with Ali George to find out more about his musical journey, his latest album Watchful Days and what he’s got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with Ali George below.

Hey Ali, how’s things?

Hi! I’m doing great thanks! I’m currently living in Athens, so I’m enjoying the sunshine. September is a great time of year to be in Greece!

What’s your earliest memory of making music?

I think I knew how to play an E minor chord on my guitar when I was six or so, but I remember writing my first song, “I’m Not Mad” when I was around ten or so.

Which artists do you draw most inspiration from today?

I’d say Gareth Dickson and John Martyn. Both absolutely top-notch guitarists!

How else do you find inspiration for your music?

Certainly from literature! Orwell, Steinbeck, Hemingway, Bukowski! These guys all wrote in such beautifully distinct ways.

What do you love about the Bath music scene?

Not much, sadly. It needs some love, effort and thought if it stands any hope of returning to its former glory.

What would you say is the perfect setting for listeners to enjoy your sound?

Walking through a forest with headphones (and a beer).

How has your own style and sound evolved since you started out?

My sound has veered towards a more effects driven sound. When you’ve been writing songs on an acoustic guitar for almost thirty years you sometimes need to mix things up a little. I’m much more into writing songs in alternate guitar tunings now too.

How did you find making your new album ‘Watchful Days’?

I really enjoyed the early stages of the recording. There were a lot of backing vocal parts on the album that I layed down later though. It got to be pretty tedious doing those after a while. One thing I loved is hearing the tracks at the end of each day, hearing how they grow and change over time.

What message did you want to get across with this release?

That people struggle and fail, and that it’s okay to do that. Showing your vulnerable side can be a cathartic experience.

How was it collaborating with Josh Clark?

It’s always amazing working with Josh. He’s one of the most natural, efficient and hard-working musicians I’ve ever worked with. He has the ears of a hawk too!

Were there any challenges in maintaining consistency across the trilogy of albums?

I guess the constant in all three albums is my writing style. It’s the sound that has evolved I think. I wasn’t very worried about maintaining consistency though. I think I was more focused on making each album better than the last.

What artist have you been listening to most recently?

I’d say Sam Amidon probably.

What’s the main thing you want people to get out of listening to your music?

Catharsis, empathy.

What’s been your favourite live performance so far?

My favourite was at The Royal Oak pub in Bath in August, 2022. I remember everyone was smiling all night. It was a really audience inclusive gig. There was an electric atmosphere!

Who would be 3 artists to headline your dream festival? And where would it be?

Bon Iver, The Smashing Pumpkins, and Nick Cave in the rolling hills of Tuscany.

Do you have any advice for a new artist wanting to follow your footsteps?

Don’t change your songs on the advice of people who don’t like your music. If you’re going to listen to criticism, make sure that the critic actually knows what they’re talking about.

Finally, what do you have lined up for the rest of 2023?

I’ll be working on an even newer album (which I’ve already started recording). I’m looking forward to fully engrossing myself in it! It was nice chatting! Thanks!

Listen to Watchful Days below