Indie Folk from 23 Fields

Hailing from the south of the UK, indie folk trio 23 Fields have finding their place in the modern folk sphere with a sound that brings heartfelt storytelling, timeless sound and intricate musicianship. Fronted by singer and guitarist Step Adams, alongside violinist Louise Driver and percussionist Jason M. Smith, the group pairs their traditional folk origins with modern outlook to create a musical output that’s struck a chord with listeners across the UK and beyond.

For Step, the journey into 23 Fields has been a long one; growing up in Hastings in the 90s, his ealy years were soundtracked by bands such as Pearl Jam, Metallica, Rage Against The Machine, Soundgarden and Levellers, but he always gravitated towards the warmth of acoustic music. While he spent over two decades writing songs, his career initially led him to work as an emergency nurse and it was only three years ago, with the encouragement of his partner, that he returned to music, armed with new material and soon joined by Louise and Jason in the studio.

That leap has since blossomed into 23 Fields where Step’s soulful vocal delivery and deft guitar playing are met with Louise’s graceful violin melodies and Jason’s percussive energy. Together, they explore a range of themes from political reflections, intimate portraits of love and personal musings on life and family, offering listeners music that lands with sincerity and emotional impact. From humble beginnings busking and playing in teenage rock bands, to volunteering with the RNLI, working in A&E, or even performing at Glastonbury, each member’s path has shaped the trio’s sound.

Albums one and two firmly planted the band on the map of must watch folk acts and now, with their third album on the way, 23 Fields are building anticipation through a string of new singles. Their latest single titled “The Mary Stanford (Eternal Father Strong To Save)” presents a poignant tribute to the Mary Stanford lifeboat disaster and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution’s enduring legacy, holding personal significance, with Louise having volunteered with the RNLI for more than 20 years.

On 15 November 1928, the Mary Stanford lifeboat launched into stormy seas from Rye Harbour to answer a distress call. All 17 crew members were lost in the tragedy, the single greatest loss of life in RNLI history and nearly a century later, 23 Fields bring this story back into focus, honouring the fallen crew and the bravery of the thousands of RNLI volunteers who continue to risk their lives today.

Gliding into a mellow groove of pattering percussive patterns, delicate piano and bright guitar strums, Step’s emotive voice drifts in alongside graceful violin lines to form a charming indie folk scene. Gathering subtle energy for the chorus, the storytelling lyricism shines with alluring melodies while warm brass textures mirror the violin lines.

Casting a truly moving listening experience that’s memorable, engaging and thematically profound all at once, “The Mary Stanford (Eternal Father Strong To Save)” sees 23 Fields deliver another enchanting musical moment that’s truly affecting. With their forthcoming third record on the horizon, we can’t wait to see what this talented folk trio has in store next on their enduring musical adventure.

Commenting on the release, the band shares, “The Mary Stanford story is one of profound bravery and unimaginable loss. This song is our way of ensuring that their legacy lives on, while also recognising the dedication of today’s lifeboat crews who embody the same values.”

Listen to The Mary Stanford (Eternal Father Strong To Save) below

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