Newfoundland based trio The Once released their debut album a couple of years ago, and since then have quietly gone about building a live following both in the UK and their native Canada.
Beautiful arrangements of contemporary and traditional folk songs, they have much in common with Megson in the way they present their material, crystal clear vocal recordings, thoughtful and open arrangements, all presented with hook-laden melodies – it makes this an instantly accessible and enjoyable disc.
Fronted by singer Geraldine Hollett, she has a beautifully controlled voice that is agile and clear – it’s just at home on the delicate delivery on their reading of Queen’s ‘You’re My Best Friend’ as it is on the full on delivery and attitude of ‘My Husband’s Got No Courage’.
Although Geraldine is the focus of attention for the trio, the accompaniment from Phil Churchill and Andrew Dale on guitar, mandolin, fiddle, bouzouki, banjo is superbly judged and the overall sound is one of restraint, where less is very often more.
Track listing
1 Cradle Hill
2 Jack The Sailor
3 You're My Best Friend
4 My Husband's Got No Courage
5 Valley Of Kilbride
6 Charlie's
7 By The Glow Of The Kerosene Light
8 A Round Again
9 Ode To A Broken Heart
10 Song For Memory
review 23 Nov 2011
