In the realm of folk music, there exists a unique breed of artists who embody the spirit of wandering troubadours, carrying with them the stories of their journeys and the essence of their experiences. Josh Robins is undeniably one such embodiment. With the imminent release of his EP “Blessed with a Mess” on August 29th, Robins takes us on a melodious journey through his life’s chapters, and at the forefront of this musical voyage is his lead single “All Kinds of Shoes.”
“All Kinds of Shoes” is more than just a song; it’s a vivid narrative woven into melodies and carried by Robins‘ emotive vocals. This upbeat single unfolds a tale of silver-tongued gamemaster Johnny and the enigmatic Rebecca, whose lives are thrown into a tumultuous dance with wealth and material possessions. The song paints a picture of love and conflict, highlighting the dichotomy between the allure of riches and the authenticity of genuine connections.
Robins‘ innate storytelling ability shines through in “All Kinds of Shoes,” and its accompanying music video adds a visual dimension to the narrative. The video transports viewers to a lively pub scene where Robins, armed with his guitar and lyrics, regales a captivated crowd with the story of Johnny and Rebecca. Simultaneously, the couple’s modern-day journey plays out on screen, a juxtaposition of timeless folk storytelling and contemporary visuals.
Diving deeper into Josh Robins‘ artistic journey, it’s intriguing to note his transformation from the world of punk to the realm of folk. Robins‘ roots are grounded in the raw energy of punk music, but life’s circumstances steered him onto a path of self-discovery through the roads and rails of his homeland. Busking, couch surfing, and intimate pub performances became both his refuge and his canvas for expression. Robins‘ early struggles, including escaping a dangerous home environment, fueled his music with authenticity and passion.
Presently, Josh Robins‘ life has taken a turn for the better, and he continues to embody the essence of a journeyman musician. Traveling the country in his self-converted van, he evokes the spirit of his folk heroes who once wandered in pursuit of musical revelation. When not on the road, Robins pursues his English Literature MA, reflecting his dedication to both the lyrical craft and the academic pursuit of storytelling. Robins‘ musical journey is peppered with notable milestones that affirm his presence in the folk scene. Sharing stages with acclaimed artists like Will Varley, the lead singers from Inspiral Carpets and The Bluetones, and performing at the prestigious Cambridge Folk Festival not once, but twice, Josh has firmly established himself as a mainstay in the Cambridgeshire and London folk circles.
In “All Kinds of Shoes,” listeners can hear the echoes of Josh Robins‘ personal journey intertwined with timeless folk traditions. The song is a reminder that, regardless of the shoes we wear or the paths we tread, the human experience is a tapestry of emotions and connections that transcend material wealth. As we await the release of “Blessed with a Mess,” let us anticipate the rich tapestry of stories that Josh Robins is poised to share with us, one melody at a time.
