Scottish singer-songwriter and guitarist Kris Drever has announced his long-awaited return with Doing This For Love, his first solo album in six years. Widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in contemporary folk music, Drever continues to evolve artistically on the deeply reflective new project, blending intimate songwriting with rich acoustic textures and understated musical brilliance.
Known both for his solo work and as a member of celebrated folk trio Lau, Drever has earned widespread recognition throughout his career, including multiple BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and Scottish Traditional Music Awards. His accolades span Folk Singer of the Year, Best Original Song, Instrumentalist of the Year, Album of the Year, and multiple Best Group wins with Lau.
With Doing This For Love, Drever moves even further beyond traditional folk storytelling into deeply personal territory. Across ten guitar-led tracks, he explores themes of quiet resilience, sacrifice, care, and the unnoticed labour that sustains everyday life. Rather than romanticising hardship, the album pays tribute to the people who carry emotional and practical burdens without recognition.
Musically, the project expands Drever’s acoustic folk foundations with subtle touches of indie, jazz, and pop influences. His intricate yet restrained guitar work remains central throughout the album, supported by a carefully assembled group of collaborators who bring warmth and depth to the record.
Among them is Admiral Fallow’s Louis Abbott, who contributes drums, guitars, keyboards, and vocals, while longtime collaborator and co-producer Euan Burton provides melodic bass arrangements that enrich the album’s emotional atmosphere. Singer-songwriter Rachel Sermanni lends delicate harmonies to standout track “Pilot Whales,” a moving song inspired by efforts to rescue stranded whales off the coast of Orkney. Additional contributions from Rachel Lightbody and banjo player Cahalen Morrison further expand the album’s textured and thoughtful soundscape.
At its core, Doing This For Love is an album rooted in empathy and emotional honesty. Drever approaches love not as an abstract feeling, but as an act of service, devotion, and endurance — themes that quietly run through every song on the project.
The release also marks the beginning of a new touring chapter for Drever, who is currently performing across the UK in support of the album. The tour features new material alongside selections from his celebrated catalogue, including songs from Black Water, Where the World is Thin, and other fan favourites. Audiences have praised the intimate atmosphere of the shows, highlighting both Drever’s warmth on stage and the emotional connection created within smaller venues.
With Doing This For Love, Kris Drever delivers another powerful chapter in a career built on craftsmanship, honesty, and a deep understanding of human connection.
