As a kid who didn’t hear old tales and imagine sailing the seven seas, fighting for love, and slaying the beast? Floyds Row’s upcoming album, The Carlisle Sessions, feels just like that. Close your eyes, and this music transports you to a world of adventure, love, and even tragedy with an atmospheric sound that fits right into any Renaissance Faire.
The name Floyds Row comes from a street that runs between the University of Oxford’s Faculty of Music and the Thames Valley Police station in the UK. The group consists of Emily Noël (soprano), Asako Takeuchi, (violin), George Lykogiannis (accordion), Chris Ferebee (cittern, guitar & mandolin), Andrew Arceci (viola da gamba & upright bass), and George Lernis (percussion). The songs are a combination of classical folk, newgrass, and world genres. The Carlisle Sessions (Big Round Records, PARMA Recordings) will be released on August 21st, 2026.
What makes The Carlisle Sessions so compelling is their use of folk ballads. One of those stories is the basis for the Floyds Row song, “Henry Martin.” The song tells his tale of becoming a pirate in a slow but melodic way. The soft singing notes float and rise like the sea. The instruments, especially the accordion, almost remind me of a carnival, making the song fun and entertaining.
All these songs sound like old tales that would be told in the back of a tavern. The song “Jackaroe” is a perfect example of this. The story talks of strength and love, as the main character pretends to be a pirate to reconnect with her lost love. The song creates a sense of hope, with clear vocals and a strong beat. It feels like something that would sound even better played live. You can hear the genuine joy behind every word.
Dive into Floyds Row with”The Song Of Robin Hood and His Huntes-Men”
“Maiden Lane” is an instrumental track, but that does not make it any less entertaining. The song starts with haunting violin and string instruments, reminding one of loss and pain. However, when the tune shifts and more instruments are included, it leads to a more joyful and merry tone. It feels like watching the opening of a movie set in a medieval village, exploring the people and the shops. The kettle drum solo about halfway through also adds in a traditional sounding element. This sounds like something you’d hear walking along this medieval village’s streets. Overall, the song is fun and lighthearted. It feels like the beginning of an adventure that will change your life for the better.
Floyds Row is incredible at creating a magical ambience. It’s impossible to listen to their songs and not use your imagination. Every instrument comes together to form a united sound that allows for creativity and play. As someone who grew up loving fantasy, this music fits right in with the music I remember hearing in movies and shows I grew up with. It’s like an old friend calling you back to play one more time. Floyds Row’s upcoming album, The Carlisle Sessions, is definitely something you should allow to take you on a journey for a while.
Find more from Floyds Row at:
Website
https://floydsrow.com/home
