Burning Moonlight (RSD 25)

This Record Store Day Marianne Faithfull returns to the label which made her name with a new E.P. to commemorate the 60th anniversary of her debut pop and folk albums released by DECCA simultaneously on 15th April 1965.

These four new recordings all have their creative roots in those first two albums: Side 1 is a homage to Marianne’s pop past featuring ‘Burning Moonlight’ a song inspired by her debut recording ‘As Tears Go By’ and ‘Love Is’, an upbeat pop song written with her grandson Oscar Dunbar. Side 2 of the E.P. reconnects Marianne to her folk background with ‘Three Kinsmen Bold’, a traditional song learned from her father Glynn Faithfull who had been a formative influence on her folk recordings, and a new interpretation of ‘She Moved Thu’ The Fair’, a song Marianne has performed throughout her life, and which she first recorded in 1966. Marianne’s recording career now stretches over 60 years: an amazing achievement. “It’s a good time to look back,” she agrees. “I am enjoying this period of reflection – it actually helps me move forward.”

The E.P. is produced by Head with Rob Ellis, Oscar Dunbar and Andrew Batt, who also contributes sleevenotes. The release includes lyrics for all the songs and specially commissioned artwork by the Australian engraver David Frazer.