Reviews
Album Review: Cabinet of Curiosities
The individual talents of an accordionist or a percussionist can easily be appreciated. However, combine the two and you may feel something is amiss. That’s until you immerse yourself in a musical piece by The Hut People, featuring the accordion virtuoso Sam Pirt and percussion prodigy Gary Hammond. They make a stunning case for how these two elements can create a world of sound that is refreshingly unique, endlessly creative, and deeply diverse, drawing influences from the global music landscape.
The dynamic duo’s performances are captivating, their passion palpable. Sam Pirt, the mastermind behind the accordion, is a character to behold on stage, with his infectious energy, ever-present smile, and ceaseless movement. Plus, he is known to tap dance while seated and playing his instrument – a testament to his extraordinary multitasking abilities.
Gary Hammond matches Sam’s enthusiasm with an obsession for exploring diverse sounds from anything he can strike or touch, resulting in a musical concoction that is truly mesmerizing. Their live performances are a must-experience, as no studio album, no matter how well produced, can truly capture the bliss they seem to exude on stage.
“Cabinet of Curiosities,” their latest album, is an auditory testament to the sheer talent of Pirt and Hammond, showcasing their eclectic repertoire and their ability to derive melodies from almost any source. Each track holds a distinct character, reflecting their ability to continually evolve and draw inspiration from new experiences and discoveries.
This instrumental album is far from tedious. Each track brings a unique feel, like the gentleness of “Polska Efter Hins Lars” sourced from an Ethno Music Camp in Sweden, or the hybrid sounds of “Las Ramblas,” which transitions from a tango vibe to a Caribbean ska sound with hints of Moroccan influence.
“Cabinet of Curiosities” provides a sonic journey, with Pirt and Hammond employing a plethora of musical tools and techniques, creating rhythms and melodies that invite the listener to a world of diverse cultural heritage. It’s an album where every track offers a new flavor, a new rhythm, and a new musical landscape to explore.
One of their standout original compositions, “One For Louise,” inspired by one of Pirt’s students, presents a blend of highland and African rhythms, showcasing the duo’s ability to weave together diverse musical styles seamlessly.
The Hut People stand as a remarkably unique presence in the current folk scene. Their curiosity and passion for music produce performances that are genuinely enjoyable and innovative. Their sonic explorations transcend boundaries, ensuring no tune, note, or beat is too foreign to spark their creativity. Although they might not be the most recognized folk band, their rising popularity indicates that it won’t be long before their unique sound reaches a wider audience.
So, prepare to delve into their ‘cabinet of curiosities.’ Their latest album is available now on Fellside Records. Be ready to embark on a musical journey unlike any other, as The Hut People invite you to share their world of melodic exploration and invention.
"Cabinet of Curiosities" by The Hut People: An Exemplar of Eclecticism (September 20, 2014)
Since my first encounter with The Hut People in 2010, their unique sound has sparked phrases such as “eccentrically unconventional” and “unexpectedly extraordinary”. But if I were to coin a description, I’d call it “the epitome of eclectic”. If you’re in search of a truly distinctive variant of folk music that combines a world of influences, look no further than The Hut People. Their fusion of cultural inspirations from the UK to Scandinavia, Eastern Europe to Africa, all embellished with their original compositions and arrangements, culminate in their latest album, “Cabinet of Curiosities”.
The Hut People, comprising of accordionist Sam Pirt and percussionist Gary Hammond, exhibit a range of percussive instruments that would impress even the most seasoned musician. True to their signature style, “Cabinet of Curiosities” begins with an exuberant interpretation of “McCusker’s”, a piece by Colin Farrell, renowned fiddler and whistler. This is followed by their intriguing rendition of Swedish band Väsen’s “Nitti Pomfritti”, both tracks echoing their distinctive flair and dynamic vitality.
With a shift in tempo, the album presents the soothingly melodious “Polska After Hins Lars”, the riveting complexity of “Fife & Drum”, and the compelling rhythm of the title track “Cabinet of Curiosity”. For a taste of folk music imbued with a slightly sinister aura, dive into the dark narrative of “Stor”, and then swing back to the upbeat celebration of “Karen’s Birthday”.
This album certainly leaves an impression of ‘something completely different’. It introduces you to a pair of musicians redefining folk music, stretching its boundaries in ways one wouldn’t anticipate, but will be thoroughly appreciative of.
When you listen to “Cabinet of Curiosities”, you will experience the harmonious interplay between Sam Pirt’s adept accordion skills, Gary Hammond’s incredible range of percussive talents (encompassing instruments from Berimbau, Cajon, and Djembe to Klangauge, Rainstick, and Zabumba), and the solid grounding of Alan Jones on the electric bass.
“Cabinet of Curiosities” by The Hut People is set for release on October 7 on Fellside Recordings. Don’t miss out on this unique musical experience – secure a copy for yourself.
Album: Cabinet Of Curiosities Label: Fellside Tracks: 14
The Hut People, featuring Sam Pirt and Gary Hammond on the accordion and percussion respectively, return four years after their debut, “Home Is Where The Hut Is”. In the interim, they have released a second album, “Picnic”, and captivated audiences with their distinctive music at various folk festivals. Despite their extensive collaborative work – Pirt with Folk Award winners 422 and artists like Brian Finnegan, Jez Lowe, and Kathryn Tickell, and Hammond with The Beautiful South and a myriad of world music experiences – as The Hut People, they create a unique harmony that celebrates their combined talents.
Their latest album showcases a variety of folk tunes from North America, Europe, Scandinavia, and the British Isles, enriched by a broad spectrum of percussion instruments, some of which are so unique that they might not even be listed in the credits. Beyond the conventional triangle, snare drum, and tambourine, keep an ear out for the spin spark shaker, garden flower bells, and water bottle tops. The auditory adventure that is “Cabinet Of Curiosities” turns into a game of spotting unusual sounds (pay special attention to Alan Jones’ coffee cup rhythm part in “Latvian Tune”).
The album infuses a bright, lively, and joyous aura from the get-go. There are moments where the duo harmoniously unites in a vibrant ensemble, while at other times, either the accordion or the percussion takes center stage.
The inspiration behind the original tunes embodies the ethos of The Hut People. The title track, for instance, originated from a percussion party in Hammond’s music room – a spontaneous event that illustrates their zest for discovery and diverse sources of inspiration. “Karen’s Birthday” shares a similar story, inspired by Gary’s affinity for finding rhythms in opera music and his knack for identifying rhythms in virtually anything he hears. The duo relishes not only in their unique compositions but also in the inventive ways they can revamp and give a “Hut” spin to traditional music, as seen in their ska-infused adaptation of “Las Ramblas”, a track with Mediterranean roots.
For those who might think an accordion and percussion duo could be monotonous or limited, The Hut People passionately defy such notions. The diversity of their work is indeed a delight. All you need to do is open the “Cabinet Of Curiosities” and let the discovery begin.
Spring Tour Journal - Four Consecutive Gigs from April 22 to 26
Our first stop was the Otley folk club, where I had the pleasure of a Glen Moray accompanying me throughout the gig – a dram lasting for two whole sets, the ideal wrist warmer. Upon our 5pm arrival, our stomachs were grumbling, so we sought solace in the local chip shop. To our disbelief, one had shuttered, while the other was closed on Wednesdays – unheard of! Thankfully, Korks came to our rescue, serving us a delightful plate of chips on stage. A quick visit to the open Yorkshire Trading Company resulted in the purchase of two quacking rubber ducks, a pair of chickens, and a rat – all great sound-makers! The ducks were such a hit during a tune that we decided to keep them around!
Matlock Bath was a startling contrast – a mere 200-yard stretch boasted at least seven chip shops! The Fishpond was a terrific venue, and the gig went swimmingly.
Next was the charming Tom Thumb Theatre. Its quaint upstairs bar offered a small but stellar selection of malt and bourbon. Sam sipped water from a jam jar, in true New York fashion. The following day, we explored the delightful old town of Rochester, Kent, which boasted a collection of independent and antique shops, and the largest second-hand bookstore in England. Far from being a clone town, we loved its unique charm and would heartily recommend a visit.
The gig at St Nichols church in Berden was superb. The venue was picturesque, and our hosts were incredibly warm and hospitable. The sight of nearly a full house waving hankies was splendid. The church is conveniently situated between Bishops Stortford and Saffron Walden – definitely worth a visit!
The Costa del Sol folk festival was nothing short of marvellous – impeccable organization, skilled sound engineers, sun, sand, delectable food, and fantastic music. Late-night sessions hosted by Mike Harding were exceptionally fun, thanks to bars staying open until 1:30. Performing on stage while onlookers relaxed on sun loungers was unique. Despite being a predominantly English tourist spot, Benalmadena had a laid-back atmosphere, with most of the English bars closed. I was quite content in the company of Spaniards. I can confidently say that if you can afford it, you should attend next year’s festival.
The Folk Alliance in Kansas was a phenomenal experience, unlike anything else I’ve seen in my music career. Imagine three hotel floors dedicated entirely to folk federations, countries, and bands, each room alive with 25-minute band rotations from 4pm to 4am, and full hospitality. Some rooms were overflowing while others empty. We played four gigs over the four-day event, one being our official showcase. The spontaneity of the event even led Sam and I to perform in a lift, for about 45 minutes! Thanks to EFDSS and PRS Foundation for our funding. If the opportunity arises, seize it!
On returning, we delighted in two rural touring gigs in Derbyshire and Staffordshire, hosted by Live and Local. Next on our schedule is a return to the Costa del Sol folk festival. We fly out on the 13th and return on the 16th of March. We hope to see some of you there!
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