Big Big Train

Posted by: J.N. on 28 May 2016

Any other fans of the band here? I was recently introduced to them via their (unfortunately now rare) 1997 album 'English Boy Wonders' and loved it.

Investigations lead me to the 2013 release of the combined 'English Electric' albums, part one and two. This double CD with a marvellously informative 84 page booklet is fortunately inexpensive (direct from the band) and freely available.

Described generically as neo-progressive prog rock; think early Genesis with a smattering of Yes, Jethro Tull and similar. The new vocalist David Longdon sounds delightfully Gabriel-esque with a fine and emotive voice; and wields a flute!

Greg Spawton (the bass player and a founder member) points out that 'English Electric' is not a concept album, but it celebrates our working-class heritage via the lives of those who toiled on and below the land. There is clearly a love of the British landscape and history. We are even treated to the voice of Sir John Betjeman and a track entitled 'Summoned by Bells'.

The best thing I have heard in a long long time.

I have the new album 'Folklore' too. More lovely stuff. 'Wassail' is a particular delight thereon. Check 'em out folks.

John.

Posted on: 29 May 2016 by u77033103172058601

I can endorse John's recommendation for this group/band. I bought their latest release 'Folklore' (on vinyl and it is a good clean pressing) and was transported back, as John alludes, to early Genesis and a Caravan concert I went to, far too many years ago.

The music stands on its own merits, though.

Posted on: 30 May 2016 by Bert Schurink

I know them already a bit longer. And indeed a great band with some rounded progressive rock. There is a bit of milking the theme in what they do, but ok everybody has to make a living.....

If you like this you might also want to test out Phideaux

Posted on: 31 May 2016 by u77033103172058601

Thanks for that, a quick listen to tracks on their site suggests that a further deeper delve might be worth the effort.

Posted on: 31 May 2016 by Iconoclast

Bert Schurink posted:

If you like this you might also want to test out Phideaux

X2 especially Number Seven

Posted on: 31 May 2016 by DenisA

My first BBT purchase (and still most liked) was - The Underfall Yard

Listen here - http://bigbigtrain.bandcamp.co...m/the-underfall-yard

Victorian Brickwork is a magical track with a fabulous Brass Coda - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thcsMCWBZQU

Posted on: 31 May 2016 by tonym

Thanks guys, and thanks for the link Denis, currently downloading. Four quid!

Posted on: 31 May 2016 by u77033103172058601

Buy the LP, Tony!

Posted on: 31 May 2016 by tonym

I'm too stingy Nick. Listening to Victorian Brickwork as I type. You're right Denis, it's pretty wonderful!

Posted on: 31 May 2016 by Rob T

I can also confirm "English Electrics" is as John alluded to in his OP rather good! as is "English Boy Wonders" not listen to Folklore or The Underfall yard yet but will check them out.

Posted on: 31 May 2016 by apye!

Nick from Suffolk posted:
Buy the LP, Tony!

Which one? I can't find anything on vinyl on the river!

Posted on: 31 May 2016 by Tony2011

English Electrics 1(their best, apparently) and 2 are available on vinyl from Discogs.

I can't find a copy of English Boy Wonders on vinyl anywhere except CD. I'd love to see a photo of one on vinyl, if anybody can be bothered to post it.

Posted on: 31 May 2016 by DenisA

BBT CD's available from their store - http://www.bigbigtrain.com/main/shop/cd_shop

Some Vinyl from Burning Shed - https://www.burningshed.com/store/planegroovy/

Posted on: 31 May 2016 by J.N.

DenisA posted:
My first BBT purchase (and still most liked) was - The Underfall Yard
Listen here - http://bigbigtrain.bandcamp.co...m/the-underfall-yard
Victorian Brickwork is a magical track with a fabulous Brass Coda - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thcsMCWBZQU

Hi Denis,

Good to see you here. I hope life is treating you well. I have 'The Underfall Yard' CD en-route, and 'English Electric Part Two' on vinyl coming from those nice people at Burning Shed (whose premises are located just up the road from me, so I see them from time to time). Unfortunately I cannot find a vinyl copy of 'EE Part One' available anywhere on the planet.

John.

Posted on: 01 June 2016 by apye!

Thank you very much guys for your replies re vinyl copies.

Much appreciated.

English Electric Pt2 ordered from Burning Shed, Pt1 is out of stock.