James Reid — Like A Buzzard Chased By Crows
This is James Reid's first release and though it often feels Reid is trying to find his own voice above his influences, this is enjoyable English folk album with a modern edges here and there. Like this almost weird turntable or streached tape elements that either loop out hedgerow recipes or Reid's own electrically caught voice. There’s also the odd trace of creative percussion dabbed here and there, the odd fold or two of flute too, over the usual sparse if melodic acoustic guitar ground. The songs for the most part drift around the two to five minute mark, never really outstaying there welcome, all inbreed with quite a mournful autumnal air. The songs where he deepens this mournful edge to me seem the most effective like the barely moving taught & barren guitar picking and dead branch rattle percussion of The Fallen king.
It's an Effective enough debut release that shows really hope for the future, he’s just got to try and heighten his own sound and identity beyond his influences. To find out more and buy direct drop in here or to check Mr Reids Myspace go here.