Review: Forty Elephant Gang ‘Next Time Round’
Forty Elephant Gang
Next Time Round
Independent
The debut album from Forty Elephant Gang has introduced them to the scene in an explosive fashion – Songs Of Praise is an audacious way to kick start a project. It begins with a catchy refrain ‘I got an open mind Lord, I got an open mind’ and keeps on building throughout, although the break towards the end feels a little uncomfortable and perhaps a bit forced but the band open the album strongly.
The mandolin is used to great effect throughout the record; the textures they create by blending the Cello and Accordion with the Mandolin and Slide Guitar are invigorating. An example of this comes from the song Strange Things Happening. The melodies and harmonies in this song make this a stand out track – sonically it wraps around you like a warm musical hug. Meanwhile, Jealousy does quite the opposite, the staccato introduction offers a taste of what’s to come lyrically. In fact, the music is so intriguing throughout this track – it is well arranged.
I’m really impressed with the level of musicianship from this band. From tiny shoots grow big trees and I can’t wait to watch this band blossom.
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