Mountain Man - Made the Harbour Album Review

As the Nu folk revolution gathers pace, more and more acts seem to be pouring out of the genre as labels look to capitalise on the movement. The success of Mumford and Sons particularly, has opened the door for artists such as Mountain Man to show their hand when it comes to the gentlest of genres.

Mountain Man is a curious name for a three piece group that consists of triple barrel named girls with the most delicate and soothing voices you are likely to hear. In fact, it's a pleasant surprise when you discover that this isn't another batch of Fleet Foxes or Mumford and sons, it's a group of voices that fit together so well, the listener could be forgiven for believing It was a solo artist.

It's obvious that this record is going to be an intimate affair from the off, as coughs and throat clearing is heard before the most delicate of guitar playing begins. Production on first track Buffalo is stripped down to the point of non-existence, this sounds like it could have been recorded without anyone knowing, on a hidden dicta phone, it really is that laid back

Such raw production allows for the true intimacy of these tracks to really shine through, the groups attempts to be true to their genre, work for the better on the likes of Mouthwings. An a cappella song that allows these girls, absolutely no hiding place in terms of their vocals, but it's a test that they pass with flying colours as it soars along with high pitched perfection. The same approach is taken on the last three tracks of the album, a strange choice as it allows the album to fade away, losing impact and failing to leave a lasting impressing

But ultimately, It's the quality of the albums previous songs, such as Soft Skin and White Heron that make Vermont trio, Mountain Man a surprise package girl group, and one that nu folk needs right now to breath fresh impetus into the genre.

Sam Marland