It’s uncommon to find a supergroup that’s worthy of the name, but 7-piece collective The Mariner’s Children, who for the purpose of this release feature amongst their lineup Laura Marling’s bassist, members of Peggy Sue, Sons of Noel and Adrian, Alessi’s Ark and Eyes & No Eyes prove they’re something special here. With production courtesy of Ian Grimble, who’s worked with Manic Street Preachers and Beth Orton amongst others and noting reference points that number Grizzly Bear, Pentangle and Angels of Light and nods to Arcade Fire and Bonnie Prince Billy, ‘Sycamore EP’ conjures folk music of a rare intensity.
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‘Sycamore’ burns with a fiery glow, while ‘Wolves Within the Woods’ is more overtly traditional in its sound, not least of all in the lilting vocal harmonies. But there’s are shadows moving in the long grass. ‘In My Bed’ steps up more rock action and swells to a surging chorus that’s powerful and immensely uplifting, the violins adding a perfectly poised dash of drama. Final track ‘Bridges’ is delicate and understated, but no less potent in its capacity to stir the listener’s senses. Magnificent.
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