Nick Pynn: in mirrored sky/music from windows
Roundhill round 007
http://www.nickpynn.co.uk
http://www.myspace.com/nickpynn
Nick Pynn is well known in the Brighton area and more widely in the folk/roots world as a leading multi-instrumentalist who can turn his talented dextrous musical hands to almost any instrument and play in almost any style. In fact, I think I’ve previously mentioned his brilliant interpretation of Orange Blossom Special with which he regularly delights diners as a parting shot to end the musical entertainment at Bom-Banes Restaurant in George Street, Kemp Town which he runs with his partner gastro-milliner-harmoniumist Jane BomBane. He’s a truly stunning and entertaining performer.
This double album re-release of some of Nick’s earlier work covering the mid- to late- 1990s will be welcomed by many people who’ve seen Nick perform many times in various settings over the years yet somehow, like myself, have not got around to acquiring any of his recordings.
The music varies quite widely from the usual folky fayre of Celtic Roots through Blowzabella hurdy-gurdy battleground anthems, the quintessentially English ‘Sir John Alot’ style Renbournian Guitar & Mandolin plucking and more American bluesy Janschian picking into unexplored areas of contemporary composition which would not be out of place in the classical cannon. The only thing missing is the out-and-out barn dance or hoe-down footstompers, which are hopefully available in abundance elsewhere. There are plenty of guest appearances from the likes of Herbie Flowers and Richard Durrant - and these artists occasionally take centre stage in the compositions Nick has written for them.
An excellent collection for any fan of Nick or folk music generally. Relaxing, thought provoking, entertaining fayre suitable for backgrounds to dinner parties, chilling out with friends or simply sitting quietly alone enjoying the ambience.
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