Are you sitting comfortably? Then we'll begin. As their collective name suggests, Fred Deakin and Nick Franglen have an ability to conjure up the happiest memories of an idealised childhood and Lemon Jelly's sophomore album is every bit as soul stirring as their first.
Their world is an endless journey through sun-filled playgrounds and jam butty picnics. In a war troubled, rain driven, crime ridden, recession-riddled environment, their music has a compelling charm. Simultaneously laid back and bursting with intensity, 'Lost Horizons' is a film score inviting each of us to direct our own personal movie. A sustained burst of innocent optimism that pierces the smog of reality; the musical equivalent to Jean Pierre Jeunet's 'Amelie'.
This soundtrack quality is enhanced by the choice of voice tracks and samples, which often use thespian toned lists to provide lyrical atmosphere. Hence on 'Elements' John Standing repeats a list of, you've guessed it, elements over Brian Forman's bubbling bass line. On 'Ramblin' Man' Standing and Michael Deakin roam over the world, naming places until the opening question, "where are we?", leads us into 'Return To Patagonia' - an album high point featuring Rory McFarlane's upright bass and Damian Hand on saxophone.
Like any good movie, amidst the general bonhomie there are dark passages, notably 'Experiment Number Six', which features a field recording of Dr William Brook conducting what sounds like a lethal experiment.
The album features a wealth of artists, including a choir load of vocalists, notably children's voice artist Enn Reitel's ludicrous nursery vocal on 'Nice Weather For Ducks' (a track that also stands out for its Latin break), as well as Andy Diagram on trumpet, Steve Sidwell on Flugelhorns and Bob "Forever" Young on harmonica.
Combined with Deakin's careful eye for artistic direction and design, 'Lost Horizons' promises to translate into a spectacular stage show - the first performance of which is happening tonight (Tuesday 22 October, followed by Wednesday and Thursday night gigs) in London. The gigs have sold out, but if you behave we might review it. But only if you're good.
Do run along now. It's time for tea.
by Ben Osborne