MUSICAL BRAIN SCAN SERIES: KING HANNAH
Dear sixties souls, we're very thrilled to present you a new Musical Brain Scan! For this episode we would like to introduce Hannah Merrick and Craig Whittle from King Hannah.
King Hannah, a Liverpool-based duo has become a striking presence in the indie music scene with their atmospheric sound that blends smoky vocals, haunting melodies, bluesy instrumentals, and post-rock crescendos. Their music transitions seamlessly from fragile, meditative moments to raw, booming intensity, drawing comparisons to artists like Sharon Van Etten, Mazzy Star and PJ Harvey. Characterized by lush guitar textures and introspective lyrics that evoke vivid storytelling and emotional depth.
The pair met while working together at a bar in Liverpool and bonded over their shared passion for music. They officially formed King Hannah in 2019 and quickly garnered attention for their raw, cinematic style. Their debut EP, "Tell Me Your Mind and I'll Tell You Mine" (2020), showcased their talent for crafting brooding, slow-burning tracks, leading to critical acclaim and a growing fanbase.
In 2022, King Hannah released their debut full-length album, "I’m Not Sorry, I Was Just Being Me", further solidifying their reputation as purveyors of dark, shoegaze, atmospheric soundscapes. The album delves into themes of love, loss, and self-reflection, delivered with Merrick's smoky vocals and Whittle's masterful guitar work.
After the success of their 2022 debut album I'm Not Sorry, I Was Just Being Me, King Hannah returned in 2024 with their highly anticipated sophomore release, Big Swimmer produced by Ali Chant (PJ Harvey, Dry Cleaning…). Released on May 31, 2024, via City Slang, the album showcases their growth, featuring tracks like "Big Swimmer” (special guest - Sharon van Etten) and "New York, Let's Do Nothing" that continue to evoke gritty storytelling and powerful sonic textures. Big Swimmer retains their signature style while venturing into new sonic territory, balancing delicate folk-inspired ballads with roaring post-rock explosions. Critics have highlighted their ability to pair Merrick's rich, emotive vocals with Whittle's intricate and evocative guitar lines.
The duo has also proven their live prowess, selling out 43 of their shows across the UK and Europe in 2024, further solidifying their reputation as a formidable live act. Known for their hypnotic stage presence, they create an immersive experience by replicating their album's emotional intensity in live settings. Audiences have been captivated by the duo’s ability to shift effortlessly between tranquil stillness and soaring intensity, making their performances both memorable and unpredictable.
We've asked Hannah & Craig for their musical brain scan, here it is:
Who Knows Where The Time Goes? - Fairport Convention
Blue Motel Room - Joni Mitchell
Short Drive - Smog
Motion Pictures - Neil Young
Still Flat - Built To Spill
We Could Be Looking For The Same Thing - Silver Jews
I Got Plenty - Bonnie Raitt
Can't Complain - Todd Snider
I Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight - Richard & Linda Thompson
Rip Torn - MJ Lenderman
Good Morning, Captain - Slint
I Couldn't Say It To Your Face - Arthur Russel
At Least That's What You Said - Wilco
It's Not Just Me, It's Everybody - Weyes Blood
Sever - Karate
This playlist is also available on Spotify here
Feel free to mail us at contact@goodmorningkeith.com if you have any requests,
Good Morning Keith's Team
