MOVING PICTURES

This solo live offering from Dave Cousins reproduces many of the Strawbs most popular songs, recorded previously by The Strawbs Acoustic trio or by the full electric band. What makes this concert different is that Cousins is totally alone on stage with just his acoustic guitar and weather worn voice. And a gift for gab.

Dave takes the time to explain many of the themes and ideas that went into writing many of his classic tunes before doing heartfelt takes of each number. What's not surprising is how well these songs holdup in these extremely stripped down arrangements, as if they were they were written to be performed this way. What is surprising is the backstory to "Blue Angel" and "Call To Action" to go along with better known backstories to songs like "Song Of A Sad Little Girl" and "The Hangman And The Papist." Also present is Cousins' lament for the long ago departed one time Strawbs' member Sandy Denny that's titled "Ringing Down The Years", that can be found on many Strawbs' live albums and compilations. What makes that song even more poignant this time around is the lack of response by the small club audience when Cousins speaks of her and introduces the song. As if they never heard of one of Britain's greatest female vocalists and folk rock pioneers. And you can gauge Dave's reaction as the song is sung even more poignantly then ever. One can't fail to feel Cousins' emotion and that's what makes this strange little album essential for fans of The Strawbs, prog folk, Sandy Denny, and awesome song writing of Dave Cousins. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.