Link to Living Tradition Homepage

REVIEW FROM www.livingtradition.co.uk

 


 

 

 
GEORGE WELCH & CHRISTINE JEANS - Warts And All

GEORGE WELCH & CHRISTINE JEANS - Warts And All
Hooky Mat Records HMR022

A stalwart of the north east of England, George Welch’s rich, sonorous, baritone voice is the key feature in Warts And All. Sung without frills, but with sensitive accompaniment, the 15 tracks are laid-back, low key versions of some excellent songs.

Archie Fisher’s Men Of Worth is covered, as is Jock O’ Hazeldene, and there are welcome reminders of the Stephen Foster anthem, Hard Times, and the poignant Man Of The Earth by Bernie Parry. The album explores different genres, with the blues track, Powder Rag/Richland Woman Blues, a version of the Archie Brown number, Hole In It, and the more middle-of-the-road Goffin and King’s Stay Here And Love You. Only one of George’s own compositions is included, the fine chorus song, On Board A Man O’ War. A touching inclusion is Alexander Barrass’s The Putter, about the harsh job of pushing pit wagons.

No song notes or substantial background information come with the album, but the lyrics are sung clearly and George’s rich accent comes shining through, always controlled and paced.

Christine Jeans’ banjo playing is delicate and supportive throughout, and is a highlight of the album, especially on the instrumental Ashokan Farewell and Once In Every Day.

A homely, unpretentious CD, it is easy to imagine the songs connecting with a live audience. Warts And All has a warmth and straightforward quality, and will be an inspiration for aspiring performers and recording artists. It offers the listener a mellow experience of some excellent material.

www.hookymat.net

Jim McCourt


Secure On-line mailorder service
Buy this CD online from The Listening Post
The Listening Post is the CD mailorder service of The Living Tradition magazine.
This album was reviewed in Issue 115 of The Living Tradition magazine.