Blue John are a Sheffield four piece with a nice line in folky (occasionally) indie rock with some cultured psychedelic touches. These guys weigh their mushrooms though, preferring to keep one foot on the ground and contemplate earthly concerns rather than journey to the heart of the sun. They're also a nice looking bunch of lads.
Their latest single "Grain" is the group contemplating affairs of the heart. Yes I know, that old chestnut, but don't be deterred this isn't your usual fare. First off the tune is a pleasing slice of dreamy folk, blending some propulsive acoustic picking with some electric guitar atmospherics that kick in at the same time as the shrooms, providing a hazier, time worn finale. The warm picking also provides a warm thermal for the softly and quite beautifully delivered meditation on past relationships and the healing power of time and distance in coming to terms with their end, to soar that bit higher through the speakers. It's a classy, beautifully played and executed arrangement with a place for everything and everything in its place. It seems they measure everything.
On the back of this I've had a quick flick through their other releases from their three years round the sun as a band, and I have to say if thoughtful folk rock is your thing then you need to get with the program. I'm certainly now following with interest.
Playlist Companion:
Find Blue John and other fine folksters in the Slow Folk Playlist:
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