Released from his major label contract, Seth Lakeman has struck out quite literally on his own. Recorded in a cooperage and in a disused copper mine utilising one microphone, the album features Lakeman not only singing every note but also playing all the instruments as well as producing the album himself. Originally released in very limited numbers last year, the album has now been given a broader release with an accompanying DVD.
'Blacksmith's Prayer' begins and ends with the rhythm of a smith's hammer striking an anvil while the following track The Watchmaker's Rhyme' opens with percussion simulating the ticking of a clock. Fortunately, such hackneyed ideas are not overused and do not detract from the quality of the songs. Nor does the album consist of all upbeat songs to the resounding beat of a hammer. 'The Sender' is a lyrical love ballad and is followed by the beautiful 'Salt From Our Veins.'
Throughout the album, Lakeman's voice is strong and clear and of course his trademark fiddle playing is as sharp as ever.
Most of these songs tell tales of West Country craftsmen, so perhaps this is Lakeman's testimony to dying trades. One thing is clear, he still has much to offer in his own chosen profession.
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