There’s not a whole lot about the Low Anthem that isn’t hugely admirable. From their virtuoso, instrument-swapping talents to the stunning sophomore album “Oh My God Charlie Darwin” that really put them on the map, the bookish Rhode Islanders have got plenty to be pleased about. Having said that, don’t expect them to smile much. You get the definite impression with these guys that they take their music deadly seriously. “…Charlie Darwin” was self-recorded by the band before being picked up by Bella Union in the UK and has become a genuine word-of-mouth hit over 24 months. Featuring both gorgeous ballads like “To Ohio”, “Ticket Taker” and spirit-cranking, foot-stomping bluesy romps such as “Champion Angel” and “The Horizon is a Beltway” the record remains a future classic-in-waiting.
Since their last visit to Blighty the band have added a fourth member to their ranks in the shape of multi-instrumentalist and long time chum Mat Davidson, which only adds to the mind-boggling range of instrumentation that these confirmed collectors have played on stage. From singing saws to a portable pre-WWI field organ, there seems no limit to either the band’s ability to play or procure unlikely devices to enhance their onstage endeavours. With their third album in the bag after recording sessions in the winter, this is a great chance to see the band at the end of a triumphant two years and before they head back to headline the delicious End of the Road Festival in September.
