BROWN BOOTS BOOGIE BAND
Dancing Boots

In the promotional material, they say that they love to play and this is borne out by the fact that there is exuberance in every note.

Just as appearances can be deceptive, so names can also create expectations that proved to be false in the case of the Brown Boots Boogie Band. Sticking the CD into the player and sitting back, ready for some no nonsense 12-bar blues rock, maybe in the style of Savoy Brown or peak period Status Quo, it came as somewhat of a surprise to be greeted by some rather joyous tunes in a distinctly celebratory ceilidh manner.

On nine tracks, inevitably some combining as sets, we are treated to some consummate musicianship, featuring fiddle, melodeon, piano and drums, with each adding their own embellishments to the lively, largely traditional tunes on offer. I already alluded to the musicianship being of the highest order, but the joy also mentioned earlier comes through in a little playful flourishes that convey both mastery and enjoyment. From the legendary Jimmy Shand, to current day Folk North West favourites Banter, not forgetting a nod to ABBA, there are a host of influences to spot and enjoy, from the Celtic way down to New Orleans. All this is happening within an eclectic selection of reels, jigs, hornpipes, polkas and waltzes.

Listening whilst driving certainly restricted the urge to dance, but one can only imagine how well this will translate to a room full of an audience. Go find out if you get a chance.

Visit the Brown Boots Boogie Band website