Other Reviews

25/05/2009

Live at Cropredy ‘08

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Fairport Convention

Fairport’s loyal band of followers come together every year for what could be likened to a fan convention rather than a festival. Fairport’s Cropredy Convention attracts fans from all across the globe to witness the band and their guests, and this live recording of their infamous Saturday night slot is a welcome addition to the extensive back catalogue.

Opening with a particularly rousing version of ‘Ye Mariners All’, Fairport Convention’s set rocks through trad and self-penned material, the majority of which has achieved almost a trad-like status in its popularity. And lest you forget, this is folk-rock at its very best, complete with stadium drums and Ric Sanders’ unparalleled violin.

But don’t think you’ve heard it all before – the collection includes rarely-performed songs from the Babbacombe Lee concept album, including the anthemic ‘Hanging Song’.

Absolute highlight, however, is the tribute to Sandy Denny. 2008 signified the thirtieth anniversary of Denny’s death, and Fairport marked it with respect, love and integrity by inviting guests and long-time collaborators to perform the songs most closely associated with the iconic singer. It must be with some apprehension that singers tackle her signature tune, ‘Who Knows Where The Time Goes?’, but Chris and Kellie While’s version is simple, understated and fitting. The collective congregational gasp when Robert Plant strides onstage to deliver ‘The Battle Of Evermore’ is a great moment.

Note perfect, energetic and charismatic, it is easy to forget this is a live festival set, where ales will have been downed and rain will have seeped into every conceivable corner. But it’s testament to Fairport Convention’s longevity.

Sophie Parkes