Various Artists - TheFlowerpot Sessions

Thu 18th Aug, 2011 in Music Reviews

Compilations and collaborations are most certainly on the rise, with the public’s interest being high in the area of multiple artists banding together for a common cause. This is exactly the case with the compilation aptly named The Flowerpot Sessions, which was all recorded live in seven days within a small British pub called The Flowerpot. This compilation features such affable names as Angus & Julia Stone, Damien Rice, Sarah Blasko, Passenger, Lissie and members of Mumford & Sons.

The project was created by moderate sized record label Communion whose passion for compilation is certainly recently developed, but definitely of a high standard. Their efforts in The Flowerpot Sessions are outstanding, creating a fun, exclusive and enjoyable recording to enjoy.

Australia’s favourite musical siblings Angus & Julia Stone feature over multiple tracks on over the two discs, with the first being To Let Go, a collaboration with compatriot Sarah Blasko. The unique vocals of Blasko are complimented perfectly with the warm harmonies of the Stones to create a wonderful composition of mixed melodies and textures. This track is very much a Stones’ song, with simple guitar, stripped back drums and atmospheric brass sneaking through.

Irish singing sensation Damian Rice is also a prominent figure within The Flowerpot Sessions, combining with the Stones in a spine-tingling cover of the Grease hit You’re The One That I Want. Julia Stone is simply impeccable within this track, with such beautiful and soft vocals that its hard not to be captivated by her. Rice acts as her duet partner and creates perfect contrast, with a much warmer and earthy sound than the haunting texture of Julia’s vocals.

Proving to be an international affair, American country-folk singer Lissie chips in her two cents worth with Oh Mississippi, a country-twanged serenade to the river Mississippi, how very patriotic. But despite the overtly American-ness, it is hard to deny her raw talent, with a live recording proving to be her saving grace in terms of accentuating her true vocals.

The Flowerpot Sessions is a truly beautiful compilation, with plenty of warmth and musical depth, created by some highly talented and engaging musicians.