Jon Wilks, holding an acoustic guitar, and Rich Lines standing among trees in dappled sunlight
Photo: Jon Nice

Jon Wilks & Rich Lines

Strange Heavens

A song cycle in response to Sir Stanley Spencer’s paintings at National Trust Sandham Memorial Chapel, marking a hundred years since its dedication

A continuous, dreamlike performance – part concert, part sound installation. Original songs, spoken fragments and found sound sit alongside traditional and music hall songs that would have been familiar to Spencer and the soldiers of his regiment. Jon and Rich are joined by Jon Nice (keyboards and soundscapes), and Nina Smith (formerly of the National Youth Folk Ensemble), who sings, plays fiddle and contributes compositions.

‘Pulls off that niftiest of tricks – paying due homage to the traditions whilst sounding original and contemporary.’

Mark Radcliffe, BBC Radio 2 Folk Show

‘A very rare talent indeed. Wilks is a genuine gem in British folk and beyond.’

Songlines

Read the full story of Strange Heavens

On tour · March 2027

National Trust Sandham Memorial Chapel
Tickets on sale soon

Two special performances in the chapel itself – the place that inspired the project, and where much of the music was written and recorded

‘Strange Heavens’, the album, will be out in Spring 2027

Supported by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council

Midnight Mango Supported by Basingstoke and Deane

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