Greg Russell & Ciaran Algar
Album: In Concert (DVD)
Label: Fellside
Tracks: 16
Website: http://www.russellalgar.co.uk/

It's a bold move to stick out a live DVD on the back of just two of studio albums but fair play to Greg Russell and Ciaran Algar for doing so as they've managed to produce a live set for your living room that's every bit as engaging as the real thing.

Filmed at the Theatre Royal in Workington, within walking distance of Fellside Records HQ, the 16 song set is professionally captured and provides a visual energy which easily matches that of the stage. Opening with the 'Clumsy Lover Set' from 2012's debut album 'The Queens Lover', the duo hit the ground running as the 4 tunes and reels within give the audience no chance to ease themselves in.

As you'd expect the introductory tales that precede several of the songs are both entertaining and informative, none more so than the story recited before a rendition of Vicki Swan and Johnny Dyer's translation of the Swedish traditional tune 'Roses Three'. Another highlight is a run through Colclough's 'Call And The Answer' which has a good chunk of the audience joining in with gusto. There's even a guest appearance from The Cumbrian All Chaps Choir on the pair's take on the traditional track, 'The Rose In June' which provides an earthy backing to a stirring song.

In addition to the live set the DVD also features a fantastic half hour interview with the pair that covers their introduction to music, how they met and how they've progressed to being BBC 2 Folk Award winners from there on in. It's a great addition to the disc and worth the price tag on its own.

Overall it's an engaging set performed in a fantastic venue by two of the genuine jewels of the English folk scene which will appeal to completists and people unfamiliar with the duo in equal measure. Live albums and films never hit the mark like being there yourself but 'In Concert' fills the gap perfectly until Russell and Algar come round your way again.

Rob Fearnley