Strong narratives and imagery are features of ‘Three Cheers’, from the downbeat but lilting opener, ‘Secret Steps’ to the stirring ‘Stars Are Ripe’. Classic folk tales of travelling sailors, wandering beneath the stars, lost loves and the ever-changing seasons are woven into the fabric of the material, while the musical compositions and arrangements are rich and layered without being crowded.
Tinkly chimes weave through the harmonious ‘Snow City Radio’, and subtle strings effectively augment the acoustic guitars on a number of occasions. ‘Only Forward’ is quietly moving, while the rolling percussion and sing-song melody of ‘Desert Tracks’ is rather more rousing.
Neither as depressing (or corny) as its title may suggest, ‘Three Cheers for the Undertaker’ is a solid album that proves there’s still some mileage to be found in the well-established tropes of folk tradition yet.
The Lost Cavalry Online
|
|
