Live at MWAH Studios is a digital-only live EP that perfectly bridges Blue Rose Code’s first and second albums (the excellent North Ten and the even better The Ballads of Peckham Rye, respectively). The EP features three previously released songs and three songs from the new album, across its five tracks. (You might be thinking 3+3=6 but I’ll explain.)
Opening the EP is “Acquainted With The Night/Silent Drums”, a diptych of two songs that Ross has been playing live over the past year. These two songs together is probably the best thing I have heard for the past couple of years; I can just listen and listen over and over again to these two played together. This is the first time I’ve heard them with more instruments than just Ross’ voice and guitar. They doesn’t disappoint.
“Acquainted…” is quieter and more melancholic. “Silent Drums” has especially excellent fiddle, mandolin, and drum parts. The transition from one to the other is amazing, taking you from one feel, rhythm and tempo to the other beautifully. It has one of my favourite poetical lyrics from recent times, too: The dew-laced cobwebs decorate the frail day / In a fresh storm“.
Another new song is “Where The Westlin’ Winds Do Carry Me”, but it almost bears no resemblance to the album version. The version here is an up-tempo, acoustic guitar-driven number with another wonderful violin part. The album version is slower and features piano, double bass, and trumpet jazz. I think it’s great to hear a totally different, equally excellent version that shows how a song can be adapted for a live setting. When a song is played live with fewer band members or instruments, without properly considering the best way to present it, it can come across as lesser. Thankfully, this one doesn’t.
There are also fabulous versions of “Skin and Bones” and “Wanderlust” (both from North Ten) and “One Day At A Time”, from the new album.
I’d heartily recommend anyone buy this. It’s a mere £5 (about $8.41).
See an excellent write up of North Ten on Folk Radio UK and The Ballads of Peckham Rye by No Depression’s own Carol C.
