The five songs on this EP are simple, melodic, gently uplifting, and terribly infectious.
Al Lewis and Sarah Howells met on a tube on their way home from their own solo gigs, or so the story goes. But the pair from Wales might as well have been matched in Heaven. Elsewhere Al Lewis can sound a bit like Jack Johnson, a bit like Damian Rice, but what sets these songs apart is Sarah Howells’ effortless and breathy vocals.
Florence and the machine have been going from strength to strength and their latest single ‘Rabbit Heart (Raise it up)’ does not disappoint.
Florence opens the door to us with a much softer voice, however once we’re in and settled with a cup of tea she unleashes that wonderful voice onto us. This song proves that we never know where Florence is going next, it’s a beautiful and haunting package wrapped up with an air of mystery, very different from her previous singles.
Despite the venue being a small town pub, the atmosphere for the evening’s show is excellent. After the obligatory local bands The Agitator, Derek Meins’ and Robert Dylan Thomas’ new project, take to the stage. Right from the outset the duo amaze any new listeners present, making a fair few of them jump on walking through the doors. The ferocity of Meins’ onstage personality creates an enthralled silence that’s extremely refreshing. The Agitator fluctuate between the soulful and outright outrageous creating a stir amongst the ever growing audience.
It’s not often that you arrive at the venue and see the band you’ve come to see walking just a few steps ahead, guitars strapped on and using the same doors as you to get in.
OK, so I’ve arrived pretty late (“as per usual”, my friends will tell you) but Charles and Rebecca, better known as Slow Club, start their headline ICA show standing at the back of the hall, from where they launch into an acoustic, unamplified version of ‘Wild Blue Mile’, with their fans circled in reverential silence around them.
Wedding Present bass player Terry de Castro’s debut solo album is a collection of cover versions written by her friends. The songs, which are not necessarily by well-known or famous artists, are recast by Terry on steel guitar and banjo to create a low-key, distinctly American feel.
The magnificent Mumford and Sons will be at Standon Calling festival which will take place in the Hertfordshire countryside July 31st to August 2nd.