Duo standing shoulder to shoulder at Academy Theatre, Barnsley

Pictured is Musician Julie Matthews at her studio in Penistone

The acoustic folk duo, who have been performing together for more than 20 years, are heading out on tour to promote their forthcoming 10th studio album, Shoulder to Shoulder.

A band spokesman said: “The album introduces 11 new songs to their already mighty arsenal of material.

“Their songs cover diverse topics and bridge musical genres, making them difficult to pigeonhole, but after years of drawing on many influences and experiences they have acquired a sound all of their own and are, as the opening track testifies, comfortable in the skin they are in.”

As well as the upbeat Here It Comes Again and the powerful ballad Ordinary Day, Matthews, as we have come to expect, also offers two powerful songs of political comment: Pride, a calling for solidarity in support of LGBT rights, and Are We Human, an answer to the intolerance and ignorance facing refugees fleeing to Europe.

“While’s recent co-writing partnership with Charlie Dore brings a new dimension to the album with songs such as Slim to Nil, about long-distance relationships.

“Each track is delivered with impeccable vocals, musicianship and harmonies.”

Chris While and Julie Matthews play the Academy Theatre, Birdwell, near Barnsley, on Friday, October 21. For tickets, call 01226 744442.