Chris While, Julie Matthews - Revolution Calls (2019)

Revolution Calls...as it has for Chris While & Julie Matthews for 25 years.

In case they've so far passed you by, they are the longest-lasting female duo in Britain and have played more than 2,500 gigs, appeared on over 100 albums, written hundreds of original songs and reached millions of people around the world. Now, 25 years after their debut, they sound as fresh and vital as ever on their new album, Revolution Calls.

Chris & Julie are generally regarded as folk/singer-songwriter but their outlook is more akin to the DIY philosophy of punk. Their story is remarkable, one of two empowered women doing it their way, without compromise. They run their own label and publishing company; record and produce their albums from their own studio; perform all their own material, and have always valued their complete autonomy and creative freedom. And all from a small village near Sheffield, nearly 200 miles north of the London-centric UK music industry.

Revolution Calls is as brave as it is rich, and represents yet another creative stride forward for the duo. The songs are varied and colourful and draw inspiration from the overtly political (Shake The Money Tree) to key social issues (Landfill) and real-life human stories (Two Halves Together). Collaboration with world-class musicians from a range of genres, including bassist Neil Fairclough (Queen) and electric guitarist Johnny Heyes (Mica Paris), results in a contemporary yet mature sound and feel that is bursting with energy. Whether building through the anthemic Coming Out or releasing on the Joni Mitchell-dreamlike Long Lost Friend, While and Matthews have never sounded more 'them'.

Even the cover art is 'Chris and Julie' to its core - a thought-provoking piece of self-effacing agit-prop. And they're not kidding anyone that they are 16 years old (if you look closely you'll spot the slippers!). But.. and this is important: there is nothing bland or saccharine about While & Matthews or their music. They enjoy a healthy agitation after all these years. They are best friends, but they argue and disagree. Authenticity (individual and together) is a top priority.

Their story is inspirational to young women and empowering to older women in equal measure. Revolution Calls is the work of two women doing what they do best. And to those ears While & Matthews may be reaching for the first time - listen without prejudice, and join this celebration of longevity, equality, empowerment and commitment to the muse, yeah!