Shirley Collins Celebrates 90th Birthday with Unreleased “Hares On The Mountain” Recording
A previously unheard, faster version of the traditional English ballad “Hares On The Mountain” has been released to commemorate the 90th birthday of folk icon Shirley Collins on Saturday, July 5. The release offers a fresh take on a song deeply embedded in Collins’ prolific career, spanning decades and multiple interpretations.
A Legacy in Song
Collins first captured “Hares On The Mountain” on her groundbreaking debut album, Sweet England, which has recently been recognized as the #9 best album of the 1950s by Uncut magazine. This initial recording established Collins as a vital voice in preserving and reimagining traditional English folk music. She later revisited the song in 1965, collaborating with Davy Graham on a revised melody for Folk Roots, New Routes, demonstrating her willingness to experiment and evolve her sound.
The enduring appeal of “Hares On The Mountain” is evident in its continued presence in Collins’ discography, most recently appearing on her album Archangel Hill. More recently, Collins partnered with her musical director, Ian Kearey, to create a version of the song as the theme for comedian Bridget Christie’s Channel 4 show, The Change. This latest release represents an alternative take from those sessions, offering listeners a unique glimpse into the creative process.
New Release Details
This newly unveiled recording of “Hares On The Mountain” is a faster-paced rendition, previously unreleased to the public. It serves as a testament to Collins’ ongoing artistic vitality and her dedication to the folk tradition.
A limited-edition 7” vinyl featuring “Hares On The Mountain (Fast Version)” paired with “Oakham Poachers” will be available on August 8. This release provides a tangible artifact for fans to celebrate Collins’ remarkable career and the enduring power of traditional English folk song.
