Velvet Grooves

James Yorkston was once part of a talented 'collective' in Scotland called the Fence Collective - obscure musicians at the time who just kept going and doing what they loved best regardless of their relatively unknown status. King Creosote was the leader of the collective, and he went onto to release stuff also under Domino. Various collaborations with bands such as Magnetophone on their latest album, to which Yorkston also had a part in a great song (I've Been Looking Around Me). HMS Ginafore also from the collective had a part in it. They were like a family of musical friends just doing what they liked best. Then they got picked up from various places, Static Caravan, 4AD etc and now Domino. Since then they've gone from strength to strength with their releases. Also attracting great producers - like Paul Webb from Talk Talk.

Although I'm kind of new to Yorkstons music (I know the Fence artists, I just haven't listened to Yorkstons music much before), I can still feel the Fence connection. He was mainly folk at the time with the Scottish instruments naturally making their way in - whilst collaborating with other Fence people. But subtle electronics have made their addition, fitting in well with Domino's other bands. So it's good to see him going distances and being introduced to new audiences from obscurity.

Yorkstons voice on the album is purely warm and homely. His lyrics aren't necessarily warm though - but this is the beauty. He speaks with ease - it's something he's used to. He's similar in tone to Bonnie Prince Billy, like the UK equivalent. 'Whoozy With Cider' is one of the best tracks on the album. Subtle innocent sounding electronic beat to a low quiet bass-line. Yorkston expresses his poetic lyrics with wit leaving us bemused about his times trying drunken conversations with wedding waitresses - not being able to remember anyone’s name in the morning. Trying to pull, but failing. The track is quite dreamy and a fine display of how his music manages to catch you and keep you interested effortlessly.

'Steady As She Goes' is another great one sounding very BPB if he went along the pop-route, talking about past romances. Gentle finger picking over a catchy chorus. Awesome.

The album as a whole is bound to strike new fans with its release on the more widely known Domino - and I see this as an instant congratulation, as this is music which should be listened to and loved.