The eponymous first CD from The Nocturnal Flowers has been a while coming but it’s well worth the wait. With this album, Darren Oakshott (vocals, guitar, harmonica), Jennie Beasty (violin, guitar, vocals, flute) and Paul Marshall (percussion, bass guitar) have captured the essence of their songwriting, musical and vocal skills. That mix has earned them a dedicated following, with this album that should increase dramatically.

Darren combines expressive vocals with understated, talented guitar work. Jennie has the most evocative voice, and uses her violin or flute to add incisive stylish touches. Paul handles percussion with a delicate intelligent touch that never intrudes (many could learn from that approach). Together, they fashion songs with emotive, powerful and often cutting lyrics, stylish yet unadorned arrangements and lingering vocals – simple as that.

Far and away my favourite is ‘When I Believed in You’ - one of the most touching, sincere songs I’ve heard in a long time. The lyrics have a depth and intensity that catch you, with lines such as: “knowing you has clearly lost its spark but it will never lose its mark.” No obscure imagery here just pure pain-filled poetry and Jennie’s pure and controlled voice ensures you understand the hurt. I could listen for hours. 

There are ten more great songs on the CD. They include the achingly beautiful ‘Waterfall’ with its delectable harmonies. The bizarrely titled ‘The Obvious And Things That Keep Us Together’ is a finely made song. Darren’s phrasing is excellent, and Jennie’s harmonies embellish beautifully. At first listen, ‘Touch the Moon’ is a simple song but don’t be fooled, it has numerous layers. In many ways it reflects what the band is about - writing songs that reach you on many levels. The first hearing reaches out to you, but the more you listen the more it pulls you into hidden depths. The CD closes with ‘Vice Girl’ - probably their most requested song. It has that indefinable something that every song hopes to achieve. Hear it once and it’s inside your head; hear it again and you’ll keep it there forever.

The Nocturnal Flowers make music to catch your soul. Only one wish to add - lyrics on the CD cover they’re so good I want to read them over and over.

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