aaamusic | On 25, Feb 2014

Seventies Oysterband, a punk, electric and traditional folk band, became quite political in the nineties, but softer and more melodic in recent years. Their fine album Ragged Kingdom, a reunion with folk legend June Tabor, won three BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.

Diamonds On The Water, their fist album in seven years and released on 17^th February, 2014 on Navigator Records, contains well crafted songs and much of their early energy.

‘A Clown’s Heart’ is a joyous, uplifting number with a light rhythm and fast pace, whilst  the beautiful ‘A River Runs Through’, is extremely catchy and lively. The high spirited ‘Diamonds On The Water’ reflects on trying to survive dreadful adversity. ‘The Wilderness’ , an amusing and moving tale about the power of nature, was written after a trip to the Rockies.‘ Once I Had A Sweetheart’, the sad, dark and atmospheric tale often associated with Pentangle, sounds refreshing but still traditional.

Oysterband create stunning vocal harmonies, good violin melodies and intricate guitar work. Their latest album is pleasant, inviting and accessible, containing songs that are upbeat, classy and put together with great integrity.

★★★★★

Anthony Weightman