With their new single “Thousands Are Sailing,” Lost Chimes continue to prove why they are one of the most quietly powerful forces in the UK indie folk scene. Known for Gemma Kirk’s “sublime, outstanding voice” and the duo’s ability to create music that both provokes and soothes, Lost Chimes once again rise to the occasion with a song that feels as emotionally expansive as it is intimate.
The band—Gemma and Nicky Kirk—have built a reputation for crafting music that crystallises life’s fragile moments. Their previous releases have earned praise across major UK radio, with John Kennedy at Radio X supporting their last single and BBC Radio London hosts Gaby Roslin and Carrie & David Grant celebrating their “beautiful” and “really lovely” sound. Americana UK highlighted their “gorgeous production, arrangement and sophisticated songwriting,” and anyone familiar with their work will hear all of that on full display here.
“Thousands Are Sailing” arrives as a soul-stirring entry into their growing catalogue, once again showcasing the band’s gift for storytelling. On the surface, the track carries their signature melodic acoustic sound—tender guitar lines, atmospheric textures, and a vocal performance from Gemma that is as moving as ever. But beneath its delicate exterior lies a deeply empathetic narrative about displacement in all its forms.
Rather than focusing on broad political themes, Lost Chimes ground the story in something heartbreakingly personal: a woman finding the courage to leave an abusive relationship. Through this lens, the song transforms into a quiet anthem of escape, survival, and the longing for a better life. It mirrors the journeys of countless individuals forced to migrate—whether emotionally, physically, or geographically. The result is a track that honours not only the pain of leaving but also the brave hope required to take that first step toward safety.
The instrumentation reflects that emotional duality beautifully. The arrangement is gentle yet resilient, carrying the listener forward like a tide. Nicky’s intricate guitar work brings a shimmering clarity to the track, and Gemma’s vocal performance elevates the entire piece. Her voice is warm, reflective, and full of compassion, making every lyric feel lived-in and deeply authentic.
“Thousands Are Sailing” also previews the thematic direction of their upcoming album Now I Swim, set for release on 6 June 2025 with visionary producer Gerry Diver (Damon Albarn, Van Morrison, Shane MacGowan). The record promises stories drawn from family history and collective memory, focusing on healing intergenerational trauma and uncovering ancestral resilience. This single fits seamlessly within that framework—it feels like the first step into a larger tapestry of remembrance and renewal.
The duo’s increasing visibility is well deserved. Recent live sessions on BBC Radio London, Times Radio, and their upcoming appearance on BBC Radio 4 Loose Ends reflect a band finally receiving the recognition their artistry commands. Lost Chimes have always made music with purpose. With “Thousands Are Sailing,” they offer not just a song but a gesture of compassion—one that calls for understanding and honours the strength of those who must leave everything behind.
Beautiful, moving, and socially conscious, “Thousands Are Sailing” is another unforgettable release from a band that continues to grow in depth, vision, and emotional clarity.
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