"Taplas"
THE GARDEN OF LOVE
Mark T
When it comes to updating the history of the English folk revival, the chapter on Mark T will make interesting reading. He must be regarded as a key figure in its development through the late '80s and now into the '90s. something of a visionary, his musical articulacy is enormously rewarding.
In the past he's has ranged far and wide for source material, but this time Mark re-examines his roots with a selection of mostly traditional English songs, albeit with refreshing interpretations. Some may feel this album less adventurous than previous ones but others, with preferences for the more accessible, will delight in this collection.
Much of the instrumental accompaniment to Mark's idiosyncratic voice is provided by the man himself. Hard-driving, rhythmic bouzouki, acoustic and electric guitars, harmonium, a brief burst on marimba and assorted percussion all features. In addition, Paul James' saxes contribute vibrant colour Cherry Stone and Nottamun Town, Delyth Evans paints Pretty Sarah with delicate harp strokes and Roger Watson's relentless melodeon riff pushes us all to a watery end on The Mermaid.
Existing fans will enjoy a walk through the Garden of Love and, hopefully, they'll find new converts appreciating the miscellany of colours and fragrances.
Keith Hudson
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"Rock 'N Reel"
MARK T - THE GARDEN OF LOVE
(FOLKSOUND FSCD 20)
Returning to his roots somewhat on his fourth album, Mr T still retains that essential abrasive edge which is of course expected by a musician who has previously taken trad folk songs on great twisting journeys and thrust a contemporary edge into their very bones. Here eight trad cuts and two originals get the T-treatment from the exhilarating opener 'Cherry Stone' through the eerie menace of the 'Sheepstealer', the infectious melodeon (courtesy of Roger Watson) soak toe-tapper 'Lord Ronald' and the ingenious fusion of reggae and jazz on 'Nottamun Town'. Once again Mark T has produced a varied and informed work of originality and expression, give him an Oscar or better still give him a listen (8.5)
Sean McGhee