An interesting double-header, Stirling-based Constant Follower having asked legendary Glasgow act The Orchids to support them for the launch of their debut album ‘Never Is, Nor Ever Was’ – released on the well-respected US label Shimmy Disc and co-produced with Kramer.
Unfortunately due to self-isolation and health issues, where there were meant to be five Orchids, we ended up with only two, James on vocals/acoustic guitar and Keith on electric guitar. It was therefore a very stripped-back set from the former Sarah Records janglers. Understated but very affecting, they played a selection of songs from their huge back catalogue. BM has to say that she is not that familiar with their work but it was a true joy to witness these guys, never massively popular but always well-loved, play these quiet (well tonight anyway) songs of love and reflection.
Constant Follower have been building a profile this year with the release of lead single ‘The Merry Dancers on TV’ and they are playing a few live dates, this album release being one. The four-piece live setup is led by the charismatic Stephen McAll (guitar/vocals/sampler) accompanied by Amy (keyboards), plus additional guitar and bass, they have an atmospheric, subtle but very nuanced take on modern folk and Americana, with some slices of sound dynamics and blissed out electronica.
The tracks shimmer with layers of emotion, Stephen’s guitar providing simple sounding but in fact very complex patterns while the other guitar and bass weaving between the lead lines, while Amy’s backing vocals provide a perfect foil to Stephen’s soft but steady lead.
The audience tonight was enthralled as they worked their way through cuts from the new album plus a few other tracks. They appeared to be surprised when an encore was demanded, adding one more tune into their set. We got album highlights ‘Weave of the World’, ‘Set Aside some Time’, ‘What’s Left To Say’ and the peerless ‘The Merry Dancers on TV’ which must surely be a contender for single of the year…
Another great gig at The Glad, with an appreciative audience – doesn’t get much better really…