We previously featured 23 Fields for the captivating and hypnotic, Scars, and Jack, which served as a reflection on life, mastery, and the spaces in-between, so when we heard that the band was back with The Mary Stanford (Eternal Father Strong To Save), we were curious to say the least, and couldn’t wait to listen and share our experience.
Drawing us in with a delicate guitar soundscape and a sublime violin performance with textured drums, The Mary Stanford (Eternal Father Strong To Save) opens with a peaceful nature and brooding vocals as we experience a deeply moving tribute to the crew of the Mary Stanford lifeboat.
For some context, the crew was tragically lost on 15 November 1928 whilst responding to a distress call in hurricane-force seas. The lyrics honour their bravery and the ultimate sacrifice that they made, which marked one of the greatest single losses of life in RNLI history.
Through its lyrics and melody, The Mary Stanford (Eternal Father Strong To Save) is designed to capture both the heartbreak of that fateful day and the courage of those who faced the storm. Speaking on the release, 23 Fields confess, “The Mary Stanford story is one of profound bravery and unimaginable loss. This song is our way of ensuring that their legacy lives on, while also recognising the dedication of today’s lifeboat crews who embody the same values.”
23 Fields is a Hastings-based alternative folk band. Step, the primary songwriter, grew up in the 1990s listening to bands like Pearl Jam, Metallica, Rage Against The Machine, Soundgarden, and Levellers, but always had a love for acoustic music.
He has been writing songs for over 20 years while working as an emergency nurse. Three years ago, encouraged by his partner Paula, he returned to music and began collaborating with Louise Driver (violin) and Jason M. Smith (percussion). Their debut album The World is Raining was released in July 2023, followed by To Follow This Years Fashion in April 2024. The band’s music spans politically driven songs, sensitive reflections on family and lost loved ones, and personal storytelling, all written and performed from the heart.
We deeply connect with the intention of The Mary Stanford (Eternal Father Strong To Save) and have added the track to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TIMELESS playlist, whilst we continue to stream the wider discography of 23 Fields, and anticipate future releases.