British folk seems to be some kind of buzz scene right now, amongst people who like to talk in phrases like ‘breaking into the mainstream’ and ‘making a commercial impact’. Of course, most have been aware of Johnny Flynn for a good long while now, but one singles chart success for Noah and the Whale and suddenly anything with an acoustic guitar and a checkered shirt that’s probably met Laura Marling on more than one occasion is big news.
Back in the real world, ‘Brown Trout Blues’ isn’t going to get anywhere near some big budget TV ad campaign. It’s introspective and, truthfully, not especially easy listening for your average ADD punter, but then again isn’t that the point? Really rather soothing guitar than probably is partial to the odd pint of real ale mix with vocals that aren’t exactly hunting down a hook line as a matter of urgency.
Some horns break it all up nicely and, though we’re not talking about the most thrilling (or indeed conventional) single of the year, what Flynn has created is the perfect advert for a more than decent album. Checking that out would be a very wise move indeed.
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