PAPER VERSES - DEBUT ALBUM ‘WINDSTILL’ SEPTEMBER 3RD
Paper Verses, a rising folk duo from Kent composed of Simone Lincoln and Matt Evans, is excited to announce the release of their debut album ‘Windstill’ on September 3rd, 2026, with the album launch being held at Tom Thumb Theatre in Margate the same evening. TICKETS HERE
Following their well-received debut EP ‘Life Lines’ and follow-up EP ‘Promises’ earlier this year, Americana UK stated, “Life Lines may be Paper Verses' first recorded offering, but on this evidence they are destined to become one of the new stars on the UK Folk circuit.”
‘Windstill’, recorded at Big Jelly studios in Ramsgate and engineered by Mike Collins (Allo Darlin’), is a 10-track collection of original acoustic songs, exploring the dysfunction, longing and hope within our relationships. Matt’s unique acoustic flat-picking guitar style stands out, alongside Simone’s exceptional vocals. Red Guitar Music stated, 'A voice comparable to Sandy Denny’, describing vocals that shift easily from delicate lightness to powerful delivery. The album features intricate melodies and beautiful two-part harmonies throughout, with some tracks complemented by the gentle hum of harmonium, harmonica, and violin.
The album's lyrics draw you in and make you think, whilst the music is delicate and emotive. Included on the album is the duo’s latest single ‘Saturday’; an unsentimental love song of tempered expectations, pragmatism and hope. Unheard tracks on the album include ‘The house always wins’, which was written alongside the album title track ‘Windstill’, with both songs blending into one another, almost like a crossfade. ‘The house always wins’ is loosely about life choices, the passage of time and the seemingly futile attempt to change the status quo. ‘Windstill’ follows, exploring thoughts on the potential & possibilities when you move outside of your comfort zone. ‘Forever to be young’ stands out as a beautiful song about the inevitability of growing old, featuring flugelhorn and tenor horn reminiscent of the Salvation Army on a damp, cold street corner.
Simone Lincoln, born in England and raised in Germany, is a classically trained singer. She studied and sang opera for several years. Her background as a music therapist and psychotherapist helps her connect musically on an emotional level rarely heard these days. Her voice embodies both strength and fragility, combining power and grace.
Matt Evans is influenced by both English and American folk music. He has spent his life playing in bands and writing songs. Using various tunings and a distinctive flat-picking guitar style, he crafts songs that explore the everyday while asking universal questions.
This year, Paper Verses have been honing their craft, performing at festivals and venues across the UK.
LIVE DATES
9th August - Broadstairs Folk Week - Magnet
12th August - Broadstairs Folk Festival Support Slot - Sailing Club
13th August - Broadstairs Folk Week Forno Lounge
3rd September - Tom Thumb Theatre Margate (Album Launch) TICKETS
12th September - South Downs Festival