Holly King

by Kim Thompsett

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Inspired by the story of the Holly King and the Oak King, mummers plays, cosy winter fires and the promise of spring. Some say the exchange between the two kings occurs at Midwinter solstice, some say as late as May when the traditional Jack in the Green celebrations commence the release of Summer.... whatever the timing, this song tells the tale as I envisage it and the personification of the Holly King as a protective presence during the long, dark, cold winter nights.

lyrics

In comes I, cries Holly King
For your Solstice bell to ring
Through the frost and through the snow
Where the foxes a-hunting go
Where ne'er a leaf stirs on the tree
Bundled up in pelts are we
For to knock the mistletoe down
While the Holly King wears his crown

Fire and hearth and stories told
Warm our hearts both young and old
Meat and drink be all thy fill
Keep your bones from winter's chill
Leaves so green and berries bright
Keep us safe this winter's night
While we sleep the Holly King stands
Sentinel of these frozen lands

Sleeping hound pricks up his ears
What’s that thund’rous sound he hears
Off we track through trickle and thaw
To the borders of oaken shaw
Where two kings from the days of yore
Come to settle the ancient score
Now return the days of the sun
And the Holly King’s season’s done

In comes I, cries jack, jack, jack
For to cast the darkness back.

credits

released October 3, 2023
Drone flute, vocals, lyrics and music - Kim Thompsett
Bass clarinet - Rob Leake
Guitar, bass, production, mixing and mastering - Lee Igglesden

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Kim Thompsett England, UK

'Nothing short of spectacular' - Mike Dimitriou (review of "THE HOLLOWS')
Music reminiscent of early 1970's folk revival with a soupcon of ethereal medieval rock.

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