Short Shorts

Neville Skelly – Poet & The Dreamer (Setanta)
Skelly’s second album (his first was with a big band) is a sublime collection of original material and inspired covers of reasonably well-known songs – and “Eleanor Rigby”. Needless to say, it’s a brave man who takes on a Beatles’ standard (here credited to McCartney only – Yoko wont be pleased), but not only does he make a go of it, he absolutely nails it. His languid style equally suits Jackson C. Frank’s “Blues Run The Game”, and the title track – a co-write with Tom Marcucci – is just as good. I’m sure there will be comparisons made with Richard Hawley, there are similarities in both voice and style, but don’t let that stop you discovering a transcendent after-hours record.
www.nevilleskelly.com

Will Scott – Keystone Crossing (Weather-Tone)
Will Scott is rapidly becoming a name to look out for on the Americana / roots scene, thanks to some memorable songs and a voice as viscous as molasses. “Keystone Crossing”, his third long player, should keep him in the spotlight. It’s mix of country, blues and soul is uplifting, though often measured and intensely expressive, the depth of his voice providing plenty of shade to songs that drip emotional resonance. Highlights are copious. “White River Rising” is full of dark narrative and sadness, “Just To Ferry Me Over” sounds like an old gospel hymn gone bad, and “It Ain’t Gonna Rain” seems positively jaunty, though first impressions aren’t always the truth.
www.willscottmusic.com

Legs – S/T (Independent)
Legs self-titled debut is a six track EP that clocks in at smidgen over twenty minutes - so short and sweet, but decidedly to the point. They compare themselves to The Chills and The Soft Boys and I can see where they’re coming from. Like those two bands they take post-punk as a launching board and add a psychedelic sheen (or vice versa). Never straying too far from traditional songwriting values, Legs maybe a little lo-fi and angular, but they’re never difficult. Check out their site (link below), where I understand you can download all six tracks for nowt. Bargain!
www.legstheband.com

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