Taplas

Stömp: 'I Claim My Five Pounds' (Osmosys CD034)

For the second time this year, I’ve stumbled upon the "tricky" second album by an English ceilidh band that has blown away a less satisfying predecessor. In the wake of Random,  Stomp have come up with a well-balanced product with a smooth, glossy finish that is difficult to find fault with. Their material crosses from Scandinavian polskas to band compositions, including a few songs, mixed in with some typically English dance tunes, though the sound and style are distinctly contemporary (imagine a stripped-down Whapweasel, if you like).

The melody is, largely, carried by Sheena Masson (flute and English concertina, amongst sundry other instruments) while producer Martin Appleby's punchy, yet melodic, electric bass plays a pivotal support role throughout. Some well-placed piano by guest musician, the Bismarcks’ Gareth Kiddier adds a further dimension.

The songs, all pleasantly arranged, have a distinctly bucolic flavour, delivered in a sotte voce style, reminiscent of Stackridge. Dancers may be disappointed that the wonderfully varied tune sets aren’t delivered to particular dance lengths, but this is essentially a listener’s CD by a top notch dance hand.

Mike Greenwood

TAPLAS No.136