What makes Peasant by Richard Dawson notable?

Peasant received widespread critical acclaim, with publications like The Guardian praising its ambitious storytelling and sonic diversity. The album has influenced the contemporary folk scene and highlighted Dawson's ability to address social issues through his art, earning him a reputation as a leading figure in modern British folk. Released on January 1, 2017, Peasant is Richard Dawson's third studio album, following his critically acclaimed 2014 release, Nothing Important. At this point in his career, Dawson was establishing himself as a unique voice in modern folk music, blending historical narratives with personal tales.

Peasant works well if you're into haunting narratives of the marginalized, immersive storytelling across tracks and patient unfolding of character arcs.

How many songs are on Peasant?

Peasant has 11 tracks, running approximately 58 minutes.

Peasant

Richard Dawson · 2017

58 min · 11 tracks · traditional folk music

A haunting blend of traditional folk motifs and contemporary storytelling that weaves together the lives of the marginalized.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Herald — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its ethereal melodies and profound lyrical imagery, introducing themes of identity and struggle.
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Ogre — This track combines dark humor with a poignant critique of societal norms, showcasing Dawson's knack for storytelling and emotional depth.
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Masseuse — At nearly eleven minutes long, this closing piece encapsulates the album's exploration of human connection and vulnerability through intricate musical arrangements.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album's narrative structure and varied instrumentation create a compelling exploration of marginalized lives.

What we noticed

Each track is named after a character archetype, and the lyrics explore their narratives in a storytelling format.
Several tracks incorporate shifts in tempo and dynamics, with moments of quiet introspection followed by more intense crescendos.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

haunting narratives of the marginalized
immersive storytelling across tracks
patient unfolding of character arcs
reflective moments for quiet contemplation

Maybe skip if you

seekers of instant gratification
prefer upbeat, danceable rhythms

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on January 1, 2017, Peasant is Richard Dawson's third studio album, following his critically acclaimed 2014 release, Nothing Important. At this point in his career, Dawson was establishing himself as a unique voice in modern folk music, blending historical narratives with personal tales.
Stylistic neighbors: Sharon Van Etten· Sufjan Stevens· Bill Callahan

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Herald 2:17
2 Ogre 6:56
3 Soldier 4:51
4 Weaver 5:57
5 Prostitute 4:00
6 Shapeshifter 4:30
7 Scientist 4:48
8 Hob 5:57
9 Beggar 7:24
10 No‐One 1:19
11 Masseuse 10:49

What to play next

Listen next

2020

2019

Go back to

Nothing Important

2014

Full Richard Dawson discography Artists like Richard Dawson

traditional folk music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata