Clutching At Straws
Album: Come What May
Label: Straws Music
Tracks: 6
Website: http://www.clutchingatstraws.com

The Staffordshire quartet of Clutching At Straws come branded as being of the alt-folk variety, whatever that alternative tag may mean; maybe it's something to do with the fact that Clutching At Straws are young and vibrant and provide an 'alternative' take on what some people see as the typical folk stereotypes of traditional tales and real ales. The mini album (in as much as it contains six tracks) 'Come What May' is their debut release and represents a bold statement on their philosophy for life as well as an impressive set of songs.

Beyond the basic core of guitars, fiddles and percussion comes an impressive variety of instruments to broaden the sound palette although there's something comfortably folky about the overall sound and the album art with its sepia tinted stormy coastal seascape. The opening title track has those musical references which immediately link the band to the sound popularised by the likes of the indefinitely retired Mumfords - big shoes to fill, but give them an inch and an opportunity to fill a gap and Clutching At Straws are just one of several young pretenders waiting to take up the mantle………….driven by a railroad express of a cajon and guitar combination, it's a bluegrassy style stomp which is an inspired choice to open the album and give a most assured first impression. While the rest of the material continues at a less frenetic pace, there's the chance to take a breather and appreciate the strength of the melodies. 'Look At You Now' features the guest banjo talents of the Urban Folk Quartet's newest recruit, Dan Walsh - which adds some delightful touches and lends some 'big name' credence to the album whilst being a bit of icing on the cake. In contrast to what's gone before, 'Love Lost Sold' builds slowly to a deeper and dramatic tale of human existence while the choice to close the album with 'Through Your Eyes' ("I'll never wander, I'll never roam, I'll never have to walk alone") offers up some optimism in a buoyant finish to an energetic and confident debut.

Mike Ainscoe