Jed Grimes
EP: Heart And Hand
Label: Self Released
Tracks: 4
Website: http://www.jedgrimes.com

Most of you will know that I don't generally review EP CDs but in Jed's case I'll make an exception. I'm just watching Saturday Kitchen (with the sound turned down) whilst listening to this fine appetiser from a man of great taste.

Opening with the laid-back 'Country' feel of "Farewell To Bon County" (from the Samuel P Bayard Collection) Jed certainly knows how to express lyrics in an unrushed but achingly honest way much like Fox & Luckley used to do with "Shores Of Old Blighty". On top of that, the skilfully judged re-working (to Grimes own melody) of the classic "Byker Hill" where the gently driving percussion along with Uilleann pipes courtesy of Mick Doonan and crowned by a glorious 'choir' is just asking for National Radio play.

Then there's "The Bold Fishermen" with its 5/4 time signature which has been visited by Jed before (in a previous incarnation of Hedgehog Pie) and the inclusion of "Rain And Snow" with its passionate lyrics of a man wronged by his woman. Complete with brooding sustained Hammond organ chords this track provides a slice of mature audio pleasure.

With Grimes's take on long-established songs, giving them his own twist, he certainly knows his way around reinterpretation with a respectful nod to the tradition. This 4-track recording is available from Amazon as a download or from Jed himself at gigs but as a starter I personally can't wait for the full banquet.

Pete Fyfe