Nicholas Konradsen - The Last King of Lindesey

Multi-instrumentalist and maker Nicholas Konradsen is best known for his hurdy-gurdy and bagpipe work, particularly as the main figure behind the reconstruction of Lincolnshire bagpipes. His new album The Last King of Lindesey is, however, centred on the Anglo-Saxon lyre, the most common voice of the music of Britain between the end of Roman occupation and the battle of Hastings.

The title refers to the kingdom, roughly coinciding with modern Lincolnshire, that existed in the early Anglo-Saxon period and that was eventually absorbed into Mercia. The whole album has been recorded in Konradsen’s house on two historical lyres he reconstructed, found in the archeological sites in Sutton Hoo, Suffolk, and Cologne, Germany.

Most of the tracks have evolved from improvisations, becoming stand alone tunes with an ancient sound and a cinematic flavour. These include the splendid opener The Island in the Pool, with its variations on a hypnotic theme and changes of rhythm; the dreamlike Witham, and the haunting title track that closes the album on an epic note.

The release includes also two medieval pieces, the late 13th century Da Que Deus and the early 13th century Mirie It Is, possibly having an even older origin, one of the earliest secular songs not written in Latin.

Despite a sporadic touch of medieval snare drum, fiddle or voice, the lyre takes centre-stage. Its warm timbre shines thanks to Konradsen’s lightness of touch and the intimate reverb of the recording room. Every note, accent and pause is at the same time genuine and thoughtful, part of a personal and yet entrancing journey between old and new.

With its ethereal soundscapes, calm stride and mesmerising effect, The Last King of Lindesey is an evocative and immersive experience that will surely make many people fall in love with this forgotten instrument.