The Unthanks In Winter is a seasonal musical project created by the acclaimed English folk group The Unthanks. Conceived as both an album and a live performance experience, the work explores the atmosphere, traditions, emotions, and rituals associated with the winter months. Rather than focusing solely on Christmas, the project embraces the broader winter season, drawing together folk songs, carols, original compositions, and instrumental passages that reflect the changing landscape and mood of the year's darkest period.
The origins of In Winter can be traced to the long-standing interests of sisters Rachel and Becky Unthank, whose music has often explored themes of memory, place, community, and tradition. For many years, the group considered creating a collection dedicated to winter, researching seasonal songs and experimenting with arrangements that captured both the beauty and melancholy of the season. The result was a project that took shape over more than a decade, eventually emerging as one of the band's most ambitious undertakings.
Released as a double album in 2024, In Winter presents a carefully curated journey through the sounds and stories of winter. The collection combines traditional material with newly written works, creating a musical landscape that feels both familiar and surprising. Throughout the album, songs flow into one another, producing a dream-like listening experience in which memories, celebrations, and reflections seem to drift in and out of focus. The project captures the warmth of gathering together during cold weather while also acknowledging the stillness, darkness, and introspection that winter often brings. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Musically, the work showcases the distinctive style for which The Unthanks have become known. Rooted in the folk traditions of North East England, their sound also incorporates influences from classical music, jazz, ambient music, and contemporary songwriting. Delicate vocal harmonies, atmospheric arrangements, strings, piano, and subtle instrumental textures combine to create an immersive listening experience. Familiar winter melodies are reimagined through the band's unique artistic lens, allowing old songs to take on new emotional dimensions. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
The themes explored throughout In Winter extend beyond festive celebration. The project reflects on cycles of ending and renewal, the passing of time, family traditions, community gatherings, and the relationship between people and the natural world. By blending ancient customs with contemporary perspectives, the collection offers a meditation on what winter means across different generations and cultures. The result is a work that feels timeless while remaining deeply personal and relevant to modern audiences. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Alongside the album release, The Unthanks presented In Winter as a touring live production. Concert performances brought the material to audiences across the United Kingdom, combining music, atmosphere, and storytelling to create a distinctive seasonal experience. Critics praised the project's originality, emotional depth, and artistic ambition, highlighting its ability to move beyond conventional holiday music while remaining accessible and engaging. The album and accompanying performances reinforced The Unthanks' reputation for thoughtful interpretation and creative exploration within contemporary folk music. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Today, The Unthanks In Winter stands as a significant addition to the group's body of work. By transforming traditional winter music into a rich and immersive artistic statement, the project celebrates the season in all its complexity, balancing joy and sorrow, light and darkness, nostalgia and renewal. It reflects the enduring creativity of The Unthanks and their commitment to finding fresh meaning within the traditions that continue to shape cultural life. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
