The UK-based band, Paul Armer & The Dawn Chorus, provide further proof that place of origin need not affect the music an artist chooses to pursue.
Were it not for the fact that the liner notes notes offer an expression of gratitude to the British Bluegrass Music Association for help in financing the production of their new CD, one might easily mistake them for an Appalachian ensemble with singular roots relevance. The band — chief songwriter Paul Armer on guitar and lead vocals, Chris Lord on banjo and harmony vocals, Noel Dashwood on dobro and harmony vocals, and Pete Thomas on bass — began with an impromptu performance at a bluegrass festival before going on to establish immediate credence after claiming first place in its band competition.
Not that they were unprepared to do so. The members became acquainted while working the festival circuit just as Lord and Thomas perfected their individual chops while playing as part of an earlier UK bluegrass band called The Vanguards.
As an EP, the album, contains six songs, and the material itself adheres to basic bluegrass boundaries. The arrangements are decidedly cohesive, a reflection of both their form and finesse. It doesn’t come across as overly adventurous, but does reflect the band’s obvious prowess and passion for bluegrass music.
Each offering proves that point, from the the rousing revelry of I Just Want To Know and the overt enthusiasm captured by the title track, to the reflective musings that characterize Something That Will Never Be Mine, and the tender trappings that define Moonshine Shadow. The sprightly sway of Muddy Water and the spirited sounds shared in There She Goes testify to Armer and company’s ability and agility.
Ultimately then, Heartaches and Mistakes proves to be a fine introduction for a band that clearly packs plenty of bluegrass. It ought to be interesting to find what comes next.
