I can hear some traditional folk purists speaking now: “Electro-technical stuff in folk music – oh dear me, no!”  Just proves how wrong one can be. The exclamation should be: “Oh dear me, yes!”

Thankfully, even if he recognised such a comment, James Reid decided to ignore it. His music successfully integrates his edgy fragile-sounding vocals, sensitively touched guitar, melodica and mandolin with computerised sound manipulation to create a unique delivery. I hear that James Reid sounds like an amalgam of Nick Drake, Tim Booth or Roy Harper – a touch of their influence perhaps - but James sounds like his own man and a fine sound it is too. 

Tracks such as Breathe Clear (my favourite), Himalayan Rowan Tree and Goldfinch Mask show the calibre of James’ writing. Their uncomplicated approach combines an elusive touch on the strings with precise intricate phrasing to create his distinctive ‘other-worldly’ style. Make no mistake, that doesn’t mean that James writes weak songs. His song writing skills create that most wonderful of art forms – ethereal songs filled with infinite power. The lyrics are precise. Above all they make you think. You may need to listen more than once – in fact it’s important that you do but the time invested will be worth the effort.

Wandering Man and Time of Autumn are more impressive outings for his talents. Combining computerisation and multiple tracking with acoustic instruments. James creates an ‘ancient folk’ feel with his references to the natural world and its ever-changing micro-environments, yet these songs talk to everyone about today’s messages. Time of Autumn may sound like a wine recipe – actually it’s more a recipe for life. Listen carefully the lyrics are spellbinding. Spend time with Elder and you’ll find yourself falling under the spell of his musical world.

When the day finally comes for poets to influence our futures, then men like James will write the songs that will be the saviours of our planet. Until then he’s writing songs that simply make you feel better about almost everything.

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