Martin Corrigan fronts folk/ alt country outfit: John Edgar Voe. They will be releasing a Four track EP titled Western Notes on June 24th, which gives a fine example of what is to come in the upcoming album, set to be released in early 2012.
Their use of syncopation and asymmetrical rhythms with long and irregular melodies reflect the wide open geography of the American landscape, so it's a bit odd to find that they are from Fermanagh.
There is wit and consternation and wonderful phrasing throughout. 'Highwayman' echoes Johnny Cash's Ring of Fire asserting that very important call-and-response format. While 'The Conscript' contains lyrics that make you want to listen to every word, in addition to every note, delivered in part dialogue and part song, it is one of my favourite tracks on the EP.
Overall, this EP will make a great addition to any Ipod or playlist collection. Corrigan has the uncanny ability to delve into the very soul of a song, he tells it as it is and delivers a song in an uncannily cool and austere manner, like that which only Cash could manifest. His voice is perfectly suited to the narrative style he has chosen for a good part of this project. He draws you into a story like few other people can. It's not surprising so, that here is another exceptionally good high quality act from the North of Ireland.
 |
| John Edgar Voe; essential Summer listening |
