Changing Horses
Album: The Nashville Sessions
Label: Self Released
Tracks: 6
Website: http://www.changinghorsesmusic.com

It doesn't matter where you go these days but there seems to be a budding new folk band just round the corner waiting to pounce. Changing Horses are one such street dweller and their shiny debut 'The Nashville Sessions' is a work to be proud of. The talented two-some of Richard Birtill and Francesca Cullen certainly come across like much prep, sweat and tears have gone into this neat little EP and opener 'Cut all Strings', while not strictly folk, is as warm as a cuddle on a cold day and effortlessly sweet too.

What's a welcome change are the differences between each track. There's a hint of indie, pop and rock all in the mix and the glorious '1 Million Screaming Angels' is a million miles away from closer 'Til Death Do us Part', which frankly is crazy, bizarre and horrible fun all in one.

It sounds so sweet. The gentle pluck of notes bubbling under the endearing vocals, sucking you in until the last line of the verse: 'I think that I would enjoy killing you'. It's not what you'd want a potential suitor to whisper at you is it? But whatever, as the final track it just works and wraps up this stonking first release beautifully.

The work that's been put in is evident, so much so that they've had the legends that are Steve Lamacq and Bob Harris playing their tunes for a little while now on BBC Radio 2 and 6. Now that's what I call a result. 'The Nashville Sessions' will not let you down; grab a copy before they charge off into a loopy sunset.

Emma Sutherland
http://emmasutherland.posterous.com