When a feisty young lady squares up for a battle with Death there can be only one winner, and therein lies the essence of tragedy. But just as importantly, what does Death's voice sound like? DOES HE TALK LIKE THIS? Chris and I talk about this most unsettling of English folk songs and discuss plagues, from the Black Death to the impact of Covid on folk musicians.

We also chat about the folk stage show Avondale, which tells the true story of Kate Fitzpatrick, a mysterious inmate of the Ormskirk Workhouse in Lancashire, and the American lady who may - or may not - have been her relative.

Music
Both the fiddle and sung versions of Death and the Lady were recorded by Chris Nelson. You can hear more of Chris and his wife Siobhan at chrisandsiobhan.co.uk and on their Facebook page. If you'd like to hear them live, head on down to the Bothy Folk Club.

Avondale was written by Len Pentin, and this podcast features two songs from the show: Tell Me Your Name, and The Workhouse Calls. You can find our more about the show, order the soundtrack CD and, if you're lucky, find an elusive live show at avondale.uk.com or on their Facebook page. It's an intriguing story with great music and highly recommended.

Acknowledgements
We like Stones Barn and we cannot lie!