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- Cat.no: WLMCD002
- Released: October 2005
- Rating: 8/10
There’s a certain stream of a fanbase out there that’s going to lap-up this enchanting debut by Sweet Billy Pilgrim..
Having seen James Yorkston live andheard Bright Eyes’ masterpiece this year, it falls somewhere, and I meansomewhere, in between. Finding its real niche is probably nearer alternativecountry/folk, but more adventurous. There’s no sudden rush by SBP toimpress, as the listening experience eventually unfolds over the ninetracks.
Not making an instant impression with three minute pop ditties, thisis the type of album to savour in the intimacy of your home, preferably witha good wine. It feels like an old friend who’s just dropped by. But, as weknow friends can be a bit strange sometimes, and that’s no exception here.
Moments of quirkiness, experimentation and unpredictability only add to thecharm. A subtle laziness prevails throughout, and then we’re given the oddlyplaced sonic surprise, (at 2 minutes of track 4) which seems to work.There’s little emphasis on dynamics, as it’s all about atmospherics.
Scanning quickly on the PC player, it does have a rather one-dimensionalfeel, not that that matters. Overall, each track is tackled with greatsensitivity and finesse. A gut feeling renders this one a slow-burner in theDamien Rice mould. Eventually, word of mouth will bring it success, but Ifear not hugely household bound. The level of musicianship is masterfullyunderstated, as are the delicate vocals. There’s also an element of mysteryabout the whole project. If you’re a pop fan forget it. If you want to be atthe cutting edge – this is your baby.
Standout tracks – Deshonrado, an early Eagles sound-alike, the shufflinglybeautiful No Jesus In Here (a definite Radio 2 playlister), the onlypotential single right now, and the profoundly ethereal finale of Atropina.
Weblink:Sweet Billy Pilgrim.com
The full list of tracks included are :
1. Atlantis
2. Stars Spill Out Of Cups
3. God In The Details
4. In The Water I Am Beautiful
5. Dehonrado
6. No Jesus In Here
7. Experience
8. Black Flag
9. Atropina
Elly Roberts passed away in 2011, but he was a man who was so passionate about all types of music and loved meeting his musical heroes, such as Mick Hucknall at a book signing at the Trafford Centre, Manchester in 2007.
A former teacher and also a music journalist, DJ and radio presenter on local community station Calon FM, plus appearances on BBC Radio Wales, BBC Radio Cymru and BBC Radio 2, Elly started doing reviews for DVDfever.co.uk in 2004 and he did the majority of the CD and concerts reviews on the website.
I know also that he loved getting away for the summer to Spain and I hope that wherever he is now he is enjoying the hot sunshine and, as one of his friends has said on his Facebook page, that he is interviewing his musical heroes.