Dodds, Davey: Kernowcopia

It's interesting to contrast the more recent albums from progressive rock outfit Red Jasper against Kernowcopia, the solo album of their ex-frontman Davey Dodds. While the singer and song writer was leading the band they were known for their individual, politically minded progressive folk rock. However, since Dodds departure in the 90s, Red Jasper have slowly evolved into a more straight ahead, 80s influenced prog act, while still keeping their socially aware outlook. Dodds on the other hand has headed completely in the other direction, this solo venture out and out Cornish folk music without a hint of rock, never mind prog. Clearly it was this push and pull that created the band's early, signature sound.

Often likened to Fish vocally, Dodds' strong storytelling style comes through in this thoroughly stripped back setting where bodhran, mandolin, fiddle, tin whistle and even 'bones' are the backing for the vocalist to tell his tales – two of the musicians involved being Red Jasper men, Robin Harrison and David Clifford. The protagonist certainly hasn't lost any of his acerbic edge, Dodds still turning a spotlight on what he views as social imbalances. The result is an album steeped in traditions, not just musically but also lyrically. The question however may be whether Dodds' followers from his Jasper days will see this approach as a jumping on point for this less 'modern' style. In truth, it may be quite a leap for most, the undoubted links between what Dodds has turned his hand to here and the much more rock fixated approach from his past only obvious if that connection is already known.

That doesn't stop Kernowcopia from being an honest album that thrives on a clear love for the music and approach it employs. However, as someone who held a strong affinity for Red Jasper and especially their output with Dodds at the helm, I have to admit that this traditional approach is a step too far outside of my usual listening habits.

Track Listing
1. Storm Cat Song
2. Kernowcopia
3. Contented Man
4. Jean's Tune
5. Ship On The Sea
6. The Magpie
7. Merlin's Isle Of Gramarye
8. Titchmarsh Trauma
9. The Shaman's Song
10. Shoot The Gruffalo
11. Kick Off Your Shoes

Added: September 13th 2017
Reviewer: Steven Reid
Score:
Related Link: Davey Dodds at Angel Air
Hits: 1620
Language: english

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