Tiptoe Records prides itself from being a friendly little indie label. Operating a few junctions North on the
M1, this Leeds label really does have some cracking bands under its belt.
When I stuck this CD on, and the hoe-down that is The Devil And Me came on by the Old Romantic Killer Band,
I was intrigued. Instantly thinking this could be a good compilation, the slow soothing sounds of Bear Driver
backed up any first thoughts with gentle little number A Thousand Samurais.
Track three, Rememnants by Peasman was the first song that really struck me though. A real testament to the old
folk song, it feels like you've heard different versions of the same song for years, but love it every time.
Pulled off with the ultimate style, Peasman's guitar and vocal work are equally magnificent.
Quirkily-experimental rockers Fist don't fail to keep your attention with the awesome contrast that is Finger.
The only way to really describe this song is a bit like the Sex Pistols getting stoned and covering a Johnny
Cash song. It's bizarre but brilliant.
The next song to focus attention was China Pop by Essay Like Nephew. This is a mid-tempo retro indie styled
tune and seems to grab you without you even realising. The singer has this relaxed, effortless sounding voice
that just slips so smoothly into chorus you just wanna sing a long to.
I have to say Travels By Telephone let things down a bit with the next track. Some singers do pull off not
having a pitch perfect voice; I mean Manchester's famous for it with the likes of Shawn Ryder and Ian Brown.
None of that sort of joy here though, these vocals are way off in places, and it's definitely not cool.
That said, this compilation is a pretty impressive showcase of some really decent bands, so, we've got to
finish on a good note.
Two songs shy of the end; The Tailors bring that good note. Found is a stunning folk, country styled anthem
that is a real inspiration to listen to. I have to say, every member of this band is musically armed and dangerous -
a fantastic effort from everybody playing on the track - Probably inches into being my personal fave.