In Praise of Home

With this album, the powerhouse that is RURA had a difficult decision: what could fill the gap left by lead singer Adam Holmes, who quit the band after their second album, Despite the Dark? Characteristically, and bravely, the band decided it would be impossible, so here we have the first fully instrumental RURA album since they first set out as a four-piece – and a stunner it is too.

With Steven Blake on pipes, whistle and piano, Adam Brown on guitar and bass, David Foley on bodhrán and flute and Jack Smedley on fiddle, they have delivered an exceptionally tight and evocative piece of work. The title– track opener marks the boys almost returning to the beginning, with a sense of getting back to their roots. It's a quiet and contemplative affair, and a suitably subtle way to open. The following track, ‘Day One’, feels like a rebirth: a fiery and energetic composition of fiddles and guitar. ‘Lust’ is a feisty little tune that sees the band develop further their energy and passion while ‘I'll Never Forget’ is a beautiful track filled with a sweet poignancy and inspired by the story of Foley's grandmother. An accomplished, mature and beautiful album, it's a joy from start to finish.