Need further proof that high quality TV dramas and great music go together? Well look no more because the foreboding tones of The National frontman Matt Berninger and folk sensibilities of Andrew Bird have teamed up to soundtrack AMC’s period spy series Turn.

Those familiar with The National’s treatment of Game Of Thrones’ ‘Rains Of Castamere’ will be pleased to hear the same old style of folk, with a penchant for cinematic melodrama, has also been employed for the pair’s cover of the traditional English song, ‘Lyke A Wake Dirge’. Although this time the style of folk is more geared towards the old English variety.

The haunting track contains the subject matter of souls crossing over to purgatory so prepare yourself for some serious melancholy. Then of course there’s Berninger’s eerie voice, which have the same effect here as on ‘Rains Of Castamere’. However troubadour Andrew Bird provides a lighter juxtaposition with his vocals providing a touch of urgency as a choir and clash of instruments draws the track to a close.

Both Bird and Berninger have been particularly active in recent times. The former released his latest LP, Things Are Really Great Here, Sort Of, a few weeks back just as The National continue to tour last year’s excellent Trouble Will Find Me across the globe.

AMC, who are responsible for shows such as Mad Men and The Walking Dead, have also selected the likes of Jake Bugg, Laura Marling and our very own Sarah Blasko among others for the show’s soundtrack.

Listen to ‘Lyke A Wake Dirge’ below.

Get unlimited access to the coverage that shapes our culture.
to Rolling Stone magazine
to Rolling Stone magazine