Holly Head

Holly Head, released in 2019, represents the fifth installment in Kate Rusby's acclaimed series of Christmas albums. While many artists treat holiday records as peripheral projects, Rusby has made them a cornerstone of her identity, specifically focusing on the 'South Yorkshire Carol' tradition - a regional practice of singing carols in local pubs that dates back centuries. The album features a mix of traditional carols (often set to unique regional melodies), original compositions like the title track, and a charming cover of 'Hippo for Christmas.' Produced by her husband and collaborator Damien O'Kane, the record showcases a sophisticated 'chamber folk' sound, integrating the Pureist Brass ensemble to provide a rich, orchestral depth that distinguishes it from her more stripped-back non-festive releases. It was warmly received by critics for its ability to balance folk authenticity with high-end production values.