“Quietly, inexorably, The Breath have become one of the … most exciting folk acts… Only Stories… an acoustic recording that unfolds like a paper flower” The Financial Times ?????
The Breath unites the extraordinary voice of Ríoghnach Connolly with Stuart McCallum's understated guitar brilliance. This Manchester-based duo, born from an unlikely pairing of a folk singer and a Cinematic Orchestra alumnus, crafts songs that weave personal storytelling with themes of cultural heritage and post-colonial justice.
Since their 2016 debut on Peter Gabriel's Real World Records, they've evolved from layered, expansive arrangements to a stripped-back acoustic approach that earned Connolly the title of Folk Singer Of The Year at the 2019 BBC R2 Folk Awards. Their new album 'Land Of My Other' continues this intimate journey with ten powerful original tracks.
Expect an evening of mesmerizing vocals and masterful guitar work that bridges Irish folk traditions with contemporary sensibilities. With their extraordinary connection and powerful storytelling, The Breath creates performances that touch emotional depths while honoring folk traditions.
“raw, soulful, often mesmeric, richly textured and lushly constructed…versatile persuasive vocals” Mojo
“an affecting blend …. McCallum provides the grandeur and artifice and Connolly the intimacy and purity” Uncut
“The Breath rolls across the senses like clouds caress low hills – always moving, changing, evolving; and utterly fascinating” Folk Radio.com
“folk roots but different horizons… the jaw-droppingly stunning, woozy voice of Ríoghnach Connolly” The Guardian
