GRIMSPOUND

Having discovered BBT only 5 years ago, I have fallen under their spell and so it was with much anticipation that I looked forward to this new album. When it was declared that there would be no brass on this release, I thought that it was a brave move given how unique that sound is. I am very pleased to say that Grimspound has met up to all expectations IMHO. I am not one to compare album versus album, I just take what I can from each one. The quality of the songwriting is still outstanding, the vocals, as always, excellent and the chops, well, of course they are top notch. Each of the songs give me something different to appreciate just like all the BBT albums and there isn't a song I don't like - again!

Great to hear Rachel Hall featured more and also the addition of the wonderful Judy Dyble on "The Ivy Gate" adds yet another positive element to the music. The highlights for me - at this stage anyway;

The "hook" in " A Mead Hall in Winter" one of the most sublime pieces of music I've ever heard . The feeling of sadness when 'Meadowland" finishes too soon. Imagining "Brave Captain" as the opener at this years concerts. The addition of three different lead vocalists being Judy, Rachel and Nick - again, adding to BBT's point of difference. Great keys and guitars all the way through with some interesting lines as part of the layered sound.

And the sheer "Englishness" of the sound and atmosphere. BBT continue to shine and give us a sound that is different from everyone else, long may this continue.