NEW song ‘Helpless’
Helpless has been reaching people, pulling them into the moment and we have been sharing our thoughts after shows. It’s been moving and humbling, to say the least. That’s live. No bells and whistles. Recorded, it’s an understated, acoustic performance, recorded partly at Saltwell Studios with Chris Pepper, featuring string arranger and my dear friend Kristin Wilkinson, and Joe on double bass. Produced and mixed by me, mastered by Lee Head.
This song is a gut punch but also a balm. It shows vulnerability yet a sense of lullaby and comfort. As parents we would do anything to protect our children and as they grow up into young adults it hurts so much to see them hurting and we can do so little about it. Just be there. If we could ease their anxiety, depression, or loneliness we would. Watching them hurt is agonising. In these modern times this song addresses these issues head on. An understated vocal makes it personal. I hope you enjoy it. Cover Photo by Chiara Mac Call and design by Arcade Vinyl. I am currently working on the video so watch this space!
Live Video!
While waiting for the song to be released why not pop out and watch Kris perform ‘Helpless’ live as part of the ARC Songwriter series on December 1 at the Archway Theatre in Horley HERE.
gigs!
Gigs are trickling in! We just had an amazing Sunday morning set at Ramblin’ Roots Festival in High Wycombe - thank you to Noel, The Tipping twins and everyone who came out to support the show. What a lovely, community driven event. Felt like family!
We also had a couple of wonderful shows back in February, the Place Theatre was wonderful and I am grateful to Chiara MacColl for having me and Mo Rahman (who took this photo)
Come see us at the BRAND NEW THEATRE in Biggleswade on Saturday April 20 supporting the lovely Sorrel Nation. A beautiful acoustic evening, I hope to see you there! Tickets HERE
More ARC Songwriter shows
ARC Songwriters featuring My Girl the River, Anna Howie and Kate Ellis. Come see us in Arundel on July 20 for their Music Festival. More info HERE
Reviews for Cardinal in the Snow:
Nashville meets Southern Gothic with fine vocals -
AmericanaUK 8/10
The songs of My Girl The River, come and immerse yourself in their waters - FolkRadio
A masterpiece of listening pleasure. You Do Not Deserve My Tears is on my list of top songs for 2020. -
8/10 Robsrawmusic
Like Lucinda Williams, folk legend Joni Mitchell or kd Lang, we are so impressed with this record -
Rootstime
Possibly my album of the year -
Trekwest, Twitter, Phoenix Radio, Australia
Guitar led songs, stunning lap steel, string accompaniments and thought provoking lyrics delivered from the heart by Kris’s smooth, soulful voice. -
Belles and Gals
Get it wherever you get music, you won’t be disappointed. -
Ralph McLean, BBC Radio Ulster
This is a persuasive album that grows with every listen. It’s been a very welcome inclusion to my collection and one that deserves to be given time to get to know better. -
For Folk’s Sake
‘Cardinal in the Snow’ is a tonic and comfort, one you will return to again and again. -
Folk and Tumble
‘Wilkinson has a voice that ebbs and flows to fill all those pools of emotion. Cardinal in the Snow is perfect lockdown therapy.’ -
Your life in a song
you will discover the similarities between the vocal work of this Kris Wilkinson and someone like Americana star Lucinda Williams, folk legend Joni Mitchell or the unsurpassed k.d.lang.
-Rootstime
My Girl The River is currently working on a collection of songs which will be released as an album in summer 2024. Entitled ‘Songs About Space’ it will feature songs released during the pandemic, songs that didn’t quite fit the first two albums and new songs currently being recorded. Information Highway is the first of a batch of new songs. A mix of fully realised releases and vocal guitar ‘one take wonders’. Stretching back as far as 2013 up to 2024 with a little ‘live recording’ treat at the end. More news and the cover coming soon!