Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman
Twin daughters and a folk-rock whirlwind forced Kathryn Roberts (Vocals / Piano / Woodwind), and Sean Lakeman (Guitar), to sideline their popular duo performances in the mid noughties. Now the timing is right for a return to form from the Dartmoor based couple.
Two of the British folk scenes most accomplished performers, Kathryn and Sean have graced stages the world over in a number of guises, however, the intimacy and strength of passion shown as a duo, combined with an eclectic repertoire ensures a rare treat.
With a story that includes music making with the likes of Seth Lakeman, Cara Dillon, Levellers, Kate Rusby and Show of Hands, Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman have established themselves as pillars of modern British folk.
Born and raised in the South Yorkshire mining town of Barnsley, Kathryn has sung since she could speak. Her musical parents took great delight in introducing her to many types of music including a regular summer trawl of folk festivals. This engendered a lifelong love of traditional song and also introduced her to some of the finest young talent on the British folk scene. An early duo career with fellow Barnsley lass Kate Rusby led to much critical acclaim and an award winning album. This partnership led swiftly to the teaming up with three brothers from West Devon and the folk - pop band 'Equation' was born. Many years fronting the band saw Kathryn grace exotic stages all over the world, five years of which were spent almost exclusively in the U.S. Her relationship with Sean Lakeman flourished both personally and musically, and after a decade of relentless touring the two decided to return to their English roots and gig as an acoustic duo. Two albums and several tours of UK folk clubs swiftly cemented a formidable reputation. A lauded singer, one of the finest of her generation, Kathryn is held in high regard by peers and music fans alike. Now after a few years of proud motherhood she feels ready to return to the place she belongs, Singing at the front of a stage.
As the eldest of the three Lakeman brothers, Sean was raised on Dartmoor and has played the guitar since the age of six. He was recognized at an early age as one of the most promising guitarists around. Sean learned his trade and travelled the world for a decade with folkpopsters 'Equation', he then famously went on to orchestrate the sound of his little brother 'Seth', producing his first four albums, garnering many awards, a gold record and a top ten hit album along the way. As a member of Seth's touring band Sean has played at the highest level all over Europe breaking down boundaries and and winning over legions of music fans with a commitment and energy seldom seen from a folk band.
Website Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman
Youtube Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman at the Bristol Folk Festival