Bellowhead – Burlesque
Bellowhead, winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk award for Best Live Act 2005, are a dynamic 11-piece band combining the traditional skills of John Spiers, Jon Boden, Benji Kirkpatrick, Paul Sartin, Rachael McShane and Giles Lewin combined with the percussion of Pete Flood and the brass quartet of Andy Mellon, Gideon Juckes, Justin Thurgur and Brendan Kelly.
While the material is traditional, the execution is far from the norm, full bloodied instrumentals, harmonies from the huge group and some superb dynamics make this one of the most exciting folk albums you could wish to hear.
13 track of the highest order and across a broad spectrum of styles; the upbeat tracks are irresistible and Rigs of the Time, Jordan, London Town and Fire Marengo are vibrant and full of superb layered instrumentation and strong vocals. The slower songs which include Flash Company and Death and the Lady provide the perfect respite from the driving sound of the faster songs.
This is a superb disc, its charms are mouth-watering and rather than being a substitute for the live experience, it's more of a companion - the two experiences are different, but both of the very highest order. Highly recommended.
