Um, always get a bit nervous reviewing folk music… And this one dropped through the letter box quite innocuously a good while ago, me thinking nothing of it, since then it’s been reviewed by all the big boys (Guardian, Uncut, Hamilton Advertiser etc) so there are some expectations.
The backstory – some bloke, called Peter Bellamy, did some songs using Kipling (no not that one)’s poetry a long time ago, and for some reason, some contemporary artistes have decided to do the same thing – it encompasses a pretty wide range of folk styles but I’m really not sure of the logic of grouping under this particular project. I suspect a good tie into Radio 4 or the Late Review with a bit of luck. That is not to do down some of the performances, the Unthanks, Trembling Bells and other do sterling jobs with this material.
So, the music is pleasant enough and the various singers and instrumentals very accomplished but I’d say it’s at most a showcase for new talent and a homage to someone else’s bold vision 40 years ago, maybe that’s enough reason but I don’t think there are too many really memorable moments here and I just hope that no one here is thinking about the coat tails of Mumford, or any of his sons.
Miaow.
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