Sea shanties are enjoying a huge resurgence in recent months, and given their history and purpose, it is hardly surprising. Composed and performed by sailors on sailing ships to ensure the rhythmic operation of the hauling and heaving that was a mainstay of a lot of their work aboard these huge merchant vessels, they were also about camaraderie, positivity and motivation. Life as sea was harsh and relentless, and these songs injected some much-needed humour into maritime life.

The words and fascinating history of some of the best-loved shanties, dating back as early as the seventeenth century, are brought to life in this wonderful collection.