The Barman and Other Stories (Midnight Music)
Remember
the days when Captain Pugwash sailed the seven seas in search of smugglers,
monsters and pirates? So do Blyth Power, and judging by 'The Barman' they've
left the 00.05 Crewe-York express in the station and headed off in a tub.
'The Barman' is a collection of salty seadog tales, its heart set back
in the 17th Century. Hang the publicans, dodge the pressgangs and bind
the king in chains, they croon in ye olde yokel accents, while in the
background an enthusiastic violin scrapes up the right atmosphere of seaspry
and rum.
But these crafty tales link a bygone era to a modern theme - now, as then,
religion, the monarchy and the rich are woven in as flaws in the tapestry.
But just in case you're worried that Blyth Power's trainspotting obsession
is waning 'City of Morpeth' is an ode to a mail train, and additional
backing is provided by 50021 Rodney, and 50026 Indomitable engine.
'The Barman' tries hard to live up to its satirical keelhauling lyrics
and raunchy bar-room folk - it even includes versions of Robert Brooke's
poem The Chilterns and the hymn To Be A Pilgrim - but footstompingly rousing
it isn't.
Cathi
Unsworth
Sounds