Orkney Monster

Well, here is a bit of fun. Orkney-based big band The Chair are a formidable and electrifying presence. With a mix of fiddle, accordion, bass, guitar, banjo, and mandolin, not to forget some exhilarating drum and percussion, the eight-piece are one of the highlights of the Scots live music scene. It’s rare the guys get together though (it’s been seven years since their last album for example), but Orkney Monster promises some exciting nights once we can congregate.

Polkas, airs, waltzes, jigs, a few choice covers, and even some Appalachian folk sounds are peppered throughout, promising quite a beast of an album. ‘Beachcombers’ opens with a little polka gently reeling listeners in before they are whacked with a frenzy of fiddles and guitars. It’s a thrilling and sweaty start to a fine set. ‘Shiver Me Timbers’ finds Brian Cromarty’s soft vocals a sweet match for the Tom Waits song, while ‘Walk Beside Me’ is a feisty bluegrass. It’s in the bombastic, rousing, enthusiastic full-band experience where the guys really excel though; listen to ‘The Blue Lamp’ or ‘Festival Reels’ and your feet will be itching to take to the dance floor. A joy – welcome back guys!