Sorrow Brings Me Joy

A Different Thread is the musical partnership of North Carolina’s Alicia Best and England’s Robert Jackson. Brought together by a chance meeting while busking in Ireland, the duo has spent the last decade forging a sound that travels as much as they do, drawing on British folk, Appalachian roots, and classic Americana. Their music is grounded in lived experience, often shaped by their nomadic lifestyle, long-distance love, and the tension of navigating cultural and political borders. Their songs are rich in imagery, blending heartfelt lyrics with a sharp sense of humour and a touch of grit. They’ve toured extensively across the US and Europe, supporting acts like The Milk Carton Kids and Jody Stephens (Big Star), and earning praise from outlets such as Folk Radio UK. Their forthcoming album Over Again, recorded between North Carolina and the UK, reflects a period of transition and healing. It marks a fresh chapter for the band, balancing sorrow and joy with refreshing honesty and melodic charm.