Pines - Please Dont Get Married

  by Benjamin Howarth

published: 13 / 3 / 2002

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Review

A few months ago I was lucky enough to hear a split single on Gifted records featuring Simpatico, who I knew well and who have recently put out an astonishing debut album (see elsewhere in this edition) and The Pines, who I had heard nothing from. It was a pleasant surprise to turn the record over, and hear some beautiful lilting folk-pop songs with very traditional sounding English female vocals. Turns out that the vocalist was Pam Berry, a veteran of the music scene. When I heard that the band's next single was goingto be released on Becalmed Records I was even more pleased. That label was responsible for a split 7" from one of my favourite bands of last year, Coastal, and also from a Nottingham based band, Lorna. This release more than matches the standards set by those. Firstly, the sleeve is striking and impressive and it comes on really nice thick vinyl. The music is superb. On this single, the lead vocals are split between Pam Berry and her accomplice, Joe Brooker. To be honest, Joe is slightly the weaker singer but Pam supports him with superb back up vocals and it turns out fine. Pam's lead vocal side is superior, though. The vocals and the songs themselves are just a bit better. But both sides are worth a spin, and are lit up by some gorgeous acoustic guitar playing from the pair. This release demonstrates that the Simpatico split was no fluke, and is a worthwhile addition to any record collection.

Track Listing:-

1 Please Don't Get Married
2 October Gin Again
3 Own The Moon
4 Forget Me Nots