The Owl Service — A Garland of Song

I first become aware of The Owl services’ very English take on folk rock from the excellent dark folk compilation John Barleycorn Reborn, instantly falling for their track North country Maid (which appears here too) with it’s intricate & memorable mix of banjo, guitar both acoustic and electric & all topped off with the beautiful sweet yet slightly melancholy vocals of Pamela Wyn- Shannon.

I’m happy to report that on the whole the album is as memorable & rewarding as North Country maid track, with a nice mix of different paced tracks going from acoustic & electric guitar based, to organ led marches, to rich piano led moments As well as purely instrumental tracks too that utilize countryside sounds, sitars and almost moving towards post-rock edges and creative percussion.

There’s also a whole lost of different vocal & instrumental contributions through out-  with mainly female vocal performances & the odd male ones too. The music & lyrics  are traditional yet adding in subtle modern touches and edges here and there too. The lyrics are full of references to changing seasons, the old ways and old customs, like rolling of the stones, The apple tree man , Corn Dollies, The Dorset hanging oak, etc.

There’s  only one track here that rubs me up the wrong way and that’s the first and title track which to my ears sounds a bit too close in it’s intent and vibe to Come all ye the opening track from  Fairport Conventions  1969 folk rock classic Liege & Lief, but one mis–step in thirteen can be forgiven. Otherwise this is a very enjoyable, varied and memorable ride.

The album is a download only, but don’t let that put you off it as its professional produced and executed coming with artwork etc. And you get a bonus Ep too all for £5.00!. To find out more, hear samples and of course purchase make your way here.