British-Americana troubadours A Different Thread create a richly emotive tapestry of transatlantic folk. Lead singers Robert Jackson (Midlands, UK) and Alicia Best (North Carolina) first met busking in Ireland. Their chance encounter sparked a musical journey that has spanned over nine years, a dozen countries, and three studio albums — capturing the love of two folk singers chasing their dreams on the road.
Backed by Mike Seal on double bass, their original songs weave Celtic balladry and Appalachian blues, featuring fiddle, harmonica, and an abundance of honeyed harmonies. Following in the footsteps of Johnny Cash and June Carter, Gram Parsons and Emmylou Harris, and Gillian Welch and Dave Rawlings, A Different Threadʼs unique sound has earned them acclaim for their powerful storytelling and moving live performances. They have garnered support slots with the likes of The Milk Carton Kids, Native Harrow, and Jody Stephens (Big Star), as well as features with NPR and the BBC.
Their third album, Over Again (May 2025), is an ode to new beginnings and working towards a brighter future. Written around the solar eclipse, it sees the band exploring new sonic territory, mixing electric guitars with dulcimers, gospel-esque backing vocals with honky-tonk fiddle. Echoes of Old Crow, R.E.M., Joni Mitchell, and John Prine ripple through its tracks, creating a potent, soul-soothing mix that will leave you wanting to play it all over again.
“Warm, deep, songwriters that have drunk from the well of 20th-century tradition.”
– Folk Radio UK
Erika Olson
Heralded by Americana Highway as “a modern-day troubadour” with “impeccable musicianship and vocals,” Erika Olson brings her unique blend of folk, pop and Americana to life with endearing artistry and a powerful connection to audiences through her live performances. Since the release of her debut album, This Is How I Pray (May 2023), Erika’s career has flourished—earning recognition as a finalist in Holler's inaugural songwriting competition, securing a coveted spot in the much-beloved Purbeck Rising Competition, and performing at festivals and venues across the UK, including the Black Deer Festival, London’s Green Note, Hastings Fat Tuesday, Elderflower Fields, Wick St and beyond. With a voice likened to Everything But The Girl, Emmylou Harris, and Bonnie Rait, and songwriting reminiscent of Joni Mitchell, Erika weaves deeply personal narratives into universal themes. She combines timeless and timely music with a unique, authentic artistry that resonates deeply with her listeners.
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