aaamusic | On 20, Mar 2011

The Big Eyes Family Players are obviously very good at what they do, making classical folk music of an entirely instrumental form; however. I don’t think that there is anything on show here that will gain them fans that aren’t already avid folk listeners. That is not to say that there isn’t anything interesting here; the album has some great twists and plays on the folk genre whilst incorporating influences from the gothic and jazz, however, the fact that “Family Favourites” is an entirely instrumental album makes it difficult to see where the band can gain any converts.

The problem with instrumental albums is the failure to work on a conceit or provide any lyrical context to what is trying to be portrayed. It would be churlish to say that the music isn’t emotive as it ranges from the stunningly beautiful to the unsettling which is an achievement in itself. Unfortunately, the album can come across as somewhat one dimensional due to the lack of vocals in spite of the obvious talent of the players on show. Strictly for existing fans.

Author: Josie Payne