Elly Roberts reviews
Sweet Billy Pilgrim:
We Just Did What Happened And No One Came
Distributed by
Proper Music Distribution
- 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 and
heard Bright Eyes' masterpiece this year, it falls somewhere, and I mean
somewhere, in between. Finding its real niche is probably nearer alternative
country/folk, but more adventurous. There's no sudden rush by SBP to
impress, as the listening experience eventually unfolds over the nine
tracks.
Not making an instant impression with three minute pop ditties, this
is the type of album to savour in the intimacy of your home, preferably with
a good wine. It feels like an old friend who's just dropped by. But, as we
know friends can be a bit strange sometimes, and that's no exception here.
Moments of quirkiness, experimentation and unpredictability only add to the
charm. A subtle laziness prevails throughout, and then we're given the oddly
placed 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-dimensional
feel, not that that matters. Overall, each track is tackled with great
sensitivity and finesse. A gut feeling renders this one a slow-burner in the
Damien Rice mould. Eventually, word of mouth will bring it success, but I
fear not hugely household bound. The level of musicianship is masterfully
understated, as are the delicate vocals. There's also an element of mystery
about the whole project. If you're a pop fan forget it. If you want to be at
the cutting edge - this is your baby.
Standout tracks - Deshonrado, an early Eagles sound-alike, the shufflingly
beautiful No Jesus In Here (a definite Radio 2 playlister), the only
potential single right now, and the profoundly ethereal finale of Atropina.
Weblink:
Sweet Billy Pilgrim.com
The full list of tracks included are :
DVDs reviewed by the editor are watched on a Panasonic TXW32R4 32" widescreen TV
connected to either a Creative Dxr2 DVD-ROM player or Microsoft Xbox and
played through a Sony STR-DB930 amplifier.
Review & concert pics copyright © Elly Roberts, 2004-2008.
