Lucy Fitzgerald 
Peter Dulborough’s EP “William”, is one of those releases that quietly draws you in and keeps you there. Built around piano-led arrangements and layered with elements of folk rock, alternative textures, classical touches, and trumpet, the record is rooted in something deeply personal. It is inspired by his grandfather, who joined the Royal West Kents in 1915 and survived Ypres, and that family history gives the music a strong emotional backbone.
The story behind the title runs across three generations. His grandfather William Dulborough, his father William John, and Peter William himself all share the name, which comes from Wilhelm and carries the meaning of a resolute protector. That sense of protection and remembrance flows naturally through the EP. It is reflective without being heavy, thoughtful without losing its melodic pull.
Opening track “The Dream”, first appeared as a linking piece during Dulborough’s Touch concert in Florence in May 2025 before taking on a fuller shape. The title track “William”, was written just before that same concert and performed live there, adding another layer of meaning to its origins. “From Afar”, revisits a 2022 collaboration with La Marti, this time in a more acoustic setting. “Stefano – a conversation”, pays tribute to his mentor and friend Stefano Lugli, who passed away in June 2025, and it carries a genuine sense of gratitude and reflection.
The recording process adds even more character. The EP was tracked live in a single day at Sonoria studio in Prato, near Florence, with the four songs captured in just a few hours and no more than three takes each. That approach gives the performances a natural, unfiltered quality. The band, reunited from the Touch concert, bring warmth and depth, with electric guitar, bass, drums, acoustic guitar, voice, and trumpet all finding their place without overcrowding the arrangements.
The artwork, inspired by a photograph of Dulborough’s father on the North Cornwall cliffs, completes the picture. A seagull drifting out to sea symbolises family spirit and the memory of Stefano Lugli. It ties everything together in a subtle and meaningful way. I found myself returning to “William”, more than once, each time picking up on small details I had missed before. There is a quiet strength in this EP that makes it resonate long after the final note.
If you are drawn to music with heart, history, and real intention behind it, keep Peter Dulborough on your radar. Follow him on social media, add “William”, to your playlists, and share it with someone who appreciates reflective songwriting.
Listening to songs so you don’t have to! Just kidding :D, you totally should. Music blogger by day, nurse by night
