The Foxglove Trio
Album: Diamond Glances
Label: Self Released
Tracks: 5
Website: http://www.thefoxglovetrio.co.uk

First impression on hearing this new Hertfordshire-based trio is of an accomplished and highly talented outfit whose members are already well-rehearsed and sure both of themselves and their capabilities and of where they're taking their music. They've already made quite a name for themselves at folk clubs and festivals, and it shouldn't be much longer before their profile is considerably enhanced as more discerning folk enthusiasts latch onto their persuasive approach to tradition.

The trio's musical signature is largely built around a melodeon-and-cello or guitar-and-cello pairing, with whistle filling out the texture even further on one track, while the vocal load is taken by the wonderfully strong-voiced Ffion Mair, who sings with exceptional clarity. She sings two of the EP's songs (Cariad Cyntaf and Bugeilio'r Gwenith Gwyn) in her native Welsh, the remaining three in English.

The menu is exclusively traditional, with Newry Town and Betsy Bell & Mary Gray coming off particularly well in the trio's vital arrangements. The Foxglove Trio deserve a place on your CD shelves, but with more than just a mere EP; nevertheless this is definitely a team to watch.

David Kidman