"Written in Salt" was the first full length studio album by The Longest Johns, and also the first album they recorded as a five-piece group. It was recorded on April 7, 2016 and released June 18, 2016. Like Bones in the Ocean, it was recorded at Caedmon Studios and released independently. Robbie, JD, and Abbie Darley are credited with the engineering and editing of the album. Aled Jenkins returned to assist in the recording process for Drunken Sailor. The mastering was completed by Paul Worthington of Broadwater Studios. Abbie Darley is also credited alongside Laura Smith for the album art.
At the time of recording, the band was Andy Yates (baritone), Josh Bowker (tenor), Jonathan Darley (bass), Robbie Sattin (baritone) and Dave Robinson (tenor).
The album was reviewed by Darren Johnson of Bright Young Folk not long after release. Of the album, Darren said:
Written in Salt is a fine debut album from five guys who are able to apply their considerable vocal and creative talents to both revisiting traditional shanties and contributing new ones to the genre.
Track List[]
- Barge Ballad
- Eliza Lee
- The Grey Funnel Line
- On the Railroad
- Anne Louise (Instrumental)
- Old Maui
- Three Score and Ten
- Randy Dandy-O
- John Paul Jones is a Pirate
- All at Sea
- The Curse
- The Milkmaid
- Drunken Sailor