Samandtheplants - The Eft

Green fingered folky flourishes

Samandtheplants’ brand of pastoral, junk-shop pop could very easily soundtrack an Oliver Postgate series that never found its way on to the television screen, with occasional vocal contributions from a passing and relaxed Syd Barrett. Synths flutter, music boxes tinkle and all manner of found sounds seep in to the mix, adding unusual and appealing texture to these gentle folk songs.

The Eft seems to exist completely on its own terms, a record made with little concession to current trends, nor, indeed, for traditional album structure. The 21 short songs drift by, each containing the germs of ideas that other bands might spend time labouring over, perhaps losing the magic afforded to them by the lightness and subtlety of touch evident here. It means the album is a real grower, taking a good few listens to appreciate the work that’s gone into placing these seemingly random snippets of melody and effects together.

Samandtheplants have managed to make an album that harnesses technology without succumbing completely to its charms, blending traditional song craft with the quietly avant-garde to beautiful effect. Another winner from the Twisted Nerve stables.

4 stars 4 stars 4 stars 4 stars

Twisted Nerve | TN 085 CD

Reviewed by Jamie Atkins
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