04 What You Know

EDD DONOVAN is a highly distinctive, indie folk singer and songwriter. “A natural storyteller and reflective lyricist” (Maverick Magazine); he has a rare, original talent. Originally from the North of England, he has made his home in Cheltenham. He has a collective of remarkable musicians around him called The Wandering Moles. 
Their début album, Something To Take The Edge Off, was released in April 2014 and was immediately ranked under Great Debut Albums in iTunes. It received glowing attention including Folk Radio UK’s album of the month, a fantastic 4* review in Maverick Magazine and extensive national and international radio play. It is “a wonderful example of what modern folk music can be…gloriously different”. Folk All. 

 “Edd’s unique song craft proves to be witty, thoughtful...and blessed with a melodic touch” (Folk Radio UK) and although comparisons to Bob Dylan, Nathaniel Rateliff (even Johnny Cash) have been made in the press, he creates a sound that is both familiar and fresh.

The Guardian’s article on the “singing social worker” has gained Edd’s songwriting international attention. “Powerful…. poignant” said Americana UK and Edd’s work in mental health has inspired a number of his songs.

After a UK album release tour in April 2014, a summer filled with festival dates, 2015 saw Edd on the road as a solo artist, performing select dates with the full band whilst also going back to the studio to work on their second album.  Live performances with the band bring incredible energy, textures and groove to Edd's wonderful songs. 

2016 brings the release of his second album, Making Mountains (Vol. 1). Whilst the songs on his debut album were based around his voice and guitar, the songs on this new recording uses the band to define a rich sound with thoughtful, expansive arrangements and instrumentation.
 
 “Formidable…This band blew me away” UK Festival Guides, 2014
‘One of the best releases of 2014’ Severn FM
‘Formidable…this band blew me away’ UK Festivals Guide, Wychwood 2014
"Poignant… powerful… reminds me of I Am Kloot’s John Bramwell" Americana UK
“**** - A hugely enjoyable album” Maverick 
“Witty, thoughtful, thought provoking and blessed with a melodic touch” Folk Radio UK
“A wonderful example of what modern folk music can be” Folk All

2019 sees the release of his third studio album, Guardians Of Our Time, Edd’s new album, Guardians Of Our Time, was recorded at Edd’s home throughout 2018 and 2019 and is a marked contrast to the full band sound and production of his last album ‘Making Mountains Vol 1’ (2016). Edd has self produced using mostly what he can create with his voice, guitar and keyboards (even iPhone recordings).
 

What other artists say
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​“‘Edd Donovan isn’t famous. But with songs like this, he should be” Reg Meuross (on BBC Radio 2 Folk Playlist)
"Beautiful"– Bowerbirds
"Immensely inspiring...the more people who can hear his voice and words, the better" Dr Andrea Ashworth, author of 'Once In A House On Fire'.
​"I love Edd’s music - he’s terrific" - Charlie Dore
 
What the audience say
 
​"A lyrical alchemist, his songs weave happiness and sadness together into something new and very vital. 
I haven’t recognised anyone as a voice for ‘my generation ‘ since Pulp in the 90s."
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Jennifer Beeston, audience member from 'Live at Postlip Hall'