The lost Captain Howdie album has been found! Rumoured to exist for a while now, it was literally placed in the Bluesbunny's paw one night recently. For those of you who are regulars to our reviews, you may have noticed the odd reference to the song "Sinful" and this is the album on which it first appeared. For those of you unfamiliar with this Scottish band, Captain Howdie were made up of Richard and Louise Hendry and Stephen Merrick (and, of course, Ms Hendry and Mr Merrick are still performing together as part of Louise Against the Elements).
What we have here are 11 tracks of neatly executed indie pop. Light and fluffy, these songs wash over you and cleanse you of your daily frustrations. The early version of "Sinful" on this album is taken at a slower pace than the later versions known to the Bluesbunny and seems rather more fragile as a result. "Later at the Wedding" throws in some soap opera drama. It's too nice to be a show tune but, with Ms Hendry's vocals, it's getting there. Richard Hendry takes us through the somewhat reflective "Burden" before some real sparkle appears in "Superhero". An understated gem.
Perhaps an odd subject for a review especially as the band is no longer recording but an interesting addition to the old album collection nonetheless. Best suited to warm summer evenings when its subtle charms will best be appreciated.
Apparently, there are still some copies for sale. Best to try their website for one while you can.