Other Reviews

17/10/2008

Thinkers And Fools

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Darren Black

A strident fiddle melody or a deftly fingerpicked guitar were ample accompaniment for Darren Black's early solo compositions. Now, however, he has invited a band to join him for this second album. The possibilities reeling around Darren's mind must have been endless, especially as three of the additional players are Joe Broughton, who is also producing, Kevin Dempsey and Dave Swarbrick.

The results are expansive without losing any of the bite of his debut. Broughton's flamboyant style is in evidence throughout amongst a fine supporting cast. There are flickers of experimentation when the band assemble for the string-laden Fruits Of Your Labour and the staccato Decisions. Elsewhere his thoughts are swathed in yearning melodies that do full justice to the memorable themes.
   
Lyrically Darren doesn't shy away from casting a critical eye over contemporary life. In the space of a few lines he can deliver a damning report on the dark side of capitalism, or leave you questioning your carbon footprint. We also dive through a portal and arrive amidst brutal historical events in the Highlands. These moments of genuine solemnity are tempered by two poignant duets with Swarbrick, which add further proof of his emotive skills with the pen. Much of this inspiration has come from Darren's travels. The central message, if there is one, seems to be his wish to throw off the proverbial shackles and escape to a rural idyll. 

Darren could have easily been overawed in such esteemed company. However, the results prove  he has retained his individual characteristics, and yet allowed other players to enhance the material. I've been listening to this alongside examples of Bert Jansch when he is joined by bands or John Martyn's more acoustic moments and, whilst not making huge tonal comparisons, they do make satisfyingly complimentary bedfellows. 

Thinkers And Fools is mature and genuinely poetical. Darren has found a new radiant sound which should propel him to a position alongside the best of the new breed of folk performers. If all this is the result of his roving, then long may he keep hitting the highway. 

David Kushar