What does it sound like?:
Those of you who follow Big Big Train will be aware of Peter Jones, a multi instrumentalist who records under the banner of Tiger Moth Tales (and also plays keyboards for Camel). The “Depths Of Winter” is his third studio album (after Cocoon and Story Tellers Part 1 – both worth having).
As can be assumed from the title, the theme is winter, but not overtly so – with probably only the track “Sleigh Ride” being one that wouldn’t fit being played in June!. As befits a true prog album, four of the tracks and are about or longer than 10 minutes, with “Exposure” clocking in at 14 minutes being one of the standout tracks – beautiful, melancholic and the use of brass really adding to the track. Hygge (see youtube in comments) shows the Wind & Wuthering era Genesis influences.
Superbly played (and sung) all the way through by Peter (who handles most of the instruments) with a few added guest musicians (a superb guitar solo at the end of Winter Maker by Luke Machin).
I’m not big on writing reviews and many more on here can do a much better job, but this album being a little off the mainstream deserves a wider audience. So, tough – you have my ramblings.
Available as a download or CD from bandcamp.
What does it all *mean*?
This has been a great year for ‘prog’ – with BBT in the ascendency and superb albums such as this popping up.
Goes well with…
A warm fire on a cold winter evening (probably – not something we get in Singapore!)
Release Date:
Might suit people who like…
Prog, Big Big Train, Genesis, Camel
Chrisf says
and here’s “Hygge” from the album…..
Vulpes Vulpes says
God that’s lovely.
niallb says
He’s really special. Cocoon is a terrific album and this one is already seeping into my bones. A lovely bloke as well. During the recent weekend of Big Big Train gigs, Peter did a lunchtime gig in a pub nearby. At the previous Kings Place gigs he put on an impromptu show, just sitting round a table. He’s incredibly talented, has been known to have a radio show, and has a lovely, gentle sense of humour.
Bargepole says
Speaking of BBT, a two track Christmas single is imminent.
https://burningshed.com/store/bigbigtrain/big-big-train_merry-christmas_cd
Kaisfatdad says
Thanks Chris. Mission accomplished with your review: I am now curious to give it a listen.
Baron Harkonnen says
Hook, line & sinker, Ya got me! I saw this in Prog magazine, I liked the name of the band/artist, this means a lot to me. Had they/he been called `Mummified Turnips From Hell` I would have passed no matter how good the music was.
I will most likely buy this and will look into the other records.
Vulpes Vulpes says
Me too. This one and another called Cocoon ordered immediately.
What a find!
You’ve made my day @Chrisf