Show of ands - new album

Show of Hands have a new album out soon – expected to be good, as usual. For me they represent the best of modern folk, combining excellent musicianship and vocals with powerful and original material. They also respect the tradition and usually include a few old songs, usually with great new arrangements. My only quibble, occasionaly, is Steve Knightly’s personal views on politics, religion, etc, entering compositions – though I’d rather have that than bland sentimentality (not one of his faults).

As a singer-songwriter myself I must admit to envying Steve having such a brilliant partner as Phil Beer – if only I could record and play with the likes of him. There’s only so much you can accomplish on your own and, though some singers ruin good material with over-production, there must be many solo performers under-achieving for want of decent back-up.

It’s not just for musical reasons either, a partner in crime boosts confidence and helps share the practical load when organising gigs and travelling, etc. On the downside, of course, you can’t be so flexible when playing with others and must take time to rehearse or you might as well continue alone.