Arthur Rigby & The Baskervylles
Album: Tales From Pegasus Wood
Label: Self Released
Tracks: 5
Website: http://www.arthurrigby.co.uk

Those who live their lives with a philosophy of 'always see the support band' when it comes to gig going, will appreciate the sentiment when a watching a warm up act deliver just as much excitement as the headline act itself. And so it came to be that Yorkshire's very own Arthur Rigby and his five piece band journeyed across the Pennines one damp Saturday evening to add some sparkle to a night of sombre singer songwriting in Manchester's Northern Quarter, yet had local fans taken by the impact of their short set; the CD being promptly purchased and the songs on heavy rotation on the trip home.

Initial thoughts of the sound which accompanies singer/guitarist, the eponymous Mr Rigby were of the minor hit 'National Express' by The Divine Comedy - it was that sort of what might be classed as expansive 'chamber pop' sound which was brought to mind on first hearing the inventively titled Baskervylles, led by Arthur Rigby - whose classic rich tones, belying his Yorkshire roots, are at the centre of the band's sound along with some rather impressive low key brass arrangements.

The opening track 'Dark Clouds' drifts in and builds up to a big chorus fired by the brass duo whose fanfare leads into the second track, the melodic 'Follow' with its quirky chorus and travelogue lyrics. Creating a timeless soundtrack to warmer sepia tinted days which seems to be their trademark, the gentle 'Ode To Gog' (although which Gog is open to debate so check your wikis) with its melancholy fiddle and lyrics referring to butterflies closes an all too brief roam through Pegasus Wood. Twenty minutes of quality material and despite song titles threatening stormy nights and dark clouds it's a collection of music which is uplifting and stirring with clever arrangements and orchestrations.

For anyone similarly impressed, there's also the new track and video for 'Moonlit Strangers' - all rolling piano and muted brass in the Baskervylles style which is also well worth chasing. Mark my words.

Mike Ainscoe