Pilgrim Fathers - Short Circular Walks in the Hope Valley [CD]

Undergroove

June 3, 2008, 04:53 PM

‘Hope Valley’ offers us a hark back to rock as it was known in this country a few years ago without sounding dated, but certainly with 90’s influences.

Nottingham rockers Pilgrim Fathers do not sound particularly unique, which may hinder their growth and longevity as a band, but the music is mostly thoughtful and they are not afraid to take time to build suspense in their songs. The use of time has been considered carefully, in contrast to the three minute structure most songs follow now. Pilgrim Fathers have clearly not pandered to being radio friendly music.

Better songs include ‘Nine Hands of the Octopus’ which takes influence from pre-rock ‘n’ roll, and has more a bluesy, yet unmistakeably early country feel. ‘The Edwardian Astronaut’ is a good song to end the album on, and at over eight minutes long, perhaps belongs there more than anywhere else - but the song has good contrast in it, almost being a song of two halves, but also has good continuity. By far the best song on the album is ‘Cosmic Space Lazers’ which makes good use of contrast. Again, it begins with a slow meandering build up, but this ends with a solemn intensity, that with honest lyrics like ‘I know, yes I know, you woman,’ make the song.

Overall, the album requires some patience. There are not anywhere near enough standout tracks and because the tempo of the songs remain similar, the album also feels this way - a bit too samey. A couple more standout tracks would make this album stand out more in one’s mind (and one’s collection). Having said that, there are good songs throughout the album. It is just a case of switching it up more. The band are clearly capable of creating good, thoughtful songs, but more contrast is needed between songs to make the album stronger.