More on: Ainslie Henderson

Label: Amphibian Husbandry
Release Date: 14/08/06
Rating:

There really has been no stopping the 'one man and his guitar' types soothing their way into the public's hearts over the past couple of years. It's even managed to infiltrate the more alternative areas of the musical sphere, with Jose Gonzales releasing his 'Veneer' opus and Sam Duckworth's folk tinged emo of Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly making an appearance at this year's Download Festival.

Ainslie Henderson started making appearances around the UK not long ago to much acclaim; there's some anticipation surrounding his recent album 'Growing Flowers By Candlelight'. To speak of Henderson as a fully fledged member of this modern folk scene is a success in itself, as it is the same man that finished fifth in 2002's Fame Academy. Yes, that’s where you’ve seen his face before.

Don’t let that put you off - this album is a wonderful effort of soothing acoustic numbers to get you through those Sunday morning hangover blues. Opening track 'Dust' sets the mood for a mellow trip through Ainslie's love torn episodes. It's a fast paced number accompanied by cellos in the background – straight from the Damien Rice school of song writing. The rest of the tracks follow pretty much in the same vein throughout, which keeps the album very consistent. However, there is enough variation in the songs to stop this becoming boring.

'Don’t Say' is a poppier effort - the strumming guitar reminiscent of 'Rush Of Blood To The Head'-era Coldplay - gives it all the potential to be a very successful single. Then there are more subtle moments when the song writing talent of Henderson really shines through. 'Day Trip' is a prime example, and a highlight from the album. This time, slightly out-of-tune pianos take the lead, in a song that builds from a simple five-note refrain, into an accompaniment of chilled-out electric guitars and strumming acoustics. Think 'On An Island' by David Gilmore.

Just when the album is seemingly running out of steam, another song pops out of nowhere to grab your attention, wanting to make to most of the two and half minutes it has to impress you. 'Love I Remember' has both the potential for single success, and to be that song that hardcore fans will cherish as their own personal favourite.

Fans of the genre will probably be less than impressed with an ex TV talent contestant trying to commercialise their indie scene. However, if you feel the need for some more tunes for the 'acoustic love' section on your iPod, this may be a very good place to start.

This is a good album backed by good songs and a lot of talent. Unfortunately, Ainslie Henderson's past 'fame' will probably mean it gets a lot less credit than it deserves.

Sam Tolley

Ainslie Henderson Official Site
Ainslie Henderson Myspace