Heavy Blinkers / Orwell - Intercontinental Pop Exchange No.3

  by Geraint Jones

published: 17 / 2 / 2004

---

Review

This is the third instalment in a series of split EPs, conceived to introduce the music of artists from different countries, scenes and even continents, the idea being that the pair of artists included on each EP should also have complementary musical styles. With regards to the Heavy Blinkers, I’ve been aware of them for some time, but with the exception of one, maybe two tracks, have actually heard very little by them. As for Orwell, they’re completely new to me, so this EP provides an interesting introduction to both. Canadians the Heavy Blinkers, more precisely from Halifax, Nova Scotia, offer lush orchestrated pop, which obviously owes a huge inspirational debt to Brian Wilson. And that’s just fine by me, especially as they do it so well. They contribute two exceptional and entirely exclusive tracks plus an instrumental version of a track from their forthcoming fourth album, collectively making this EP well worth seeking out. Superbly arranged with wonderful vocal performances, their captivating tribute to Calypso legend the Mighty Sparrow, with its intriguing 'Slinger Francisco' refrain – further investigation revealed Francisco Slinger to be The Mighty Sparrow’s real name – is an absolute joy. With former Guthrie Ruth Minnikin among their ranks (she was actually a member of both outfits simultaneously before the Guthries split last year) plus contributors of the calibre of Paul Aucoin (the Sadies), the Heavy Blinkers have an undeniable pedigree and on the basis of this delightful appetiser I’m keen to catch up with the rest of their catalogue forthwith. Orwell, by contrast hail from Nancy, France. I can accept that they adhere to the concept of these EPs to a degree – their more electronic based easy listening pop is pleasant enough and mildly diverting, but in the end it’s really rather forgettable. In contrast to The Heavy Blinkers it’s a case of muzak versus music and whilst that may not be the point there’s still only one winner for me.

Track Listing:-

1 The Heavy Blinkers- Maplewood
2 The Heavy Blinkers- Tribute To Sparrow
3 The Heavy Blinkers- Veranda Celeste
4 Orwell- Everywhere
5 Orwell- Attic's Ballad
6 Orwell- Monorail (Version 1900)