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The Young'uns
Tiny Notes
Hudson Records
Review by Chris Nickson

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cd cover Given that they’ve been going for two decades now, this is a band that’s definitely outgrown its name. But the trio of singers is going stronger, with more passion than ever, even as they continue to develop as potent songwriters. The power of what they can achieve is evident from the get-go, on “Jack Merritt’s Boots,” a moving memorial to a man killed trying to stop a terror attack in London.

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There’s plenty of sorrow here, as with “Lyra,” a commemoration of a young journalist whose life was cut short by a bullet in Northern Ireland. Yet there’s plenty to celebrate, too. “Trespassers” raises a glass to those who pioneered the right to roam in the countryside, and “Roseberry Moon” is an ode to the splendour of the landmark of Roseberry Topping, visible for miles on the North Yorkshire Moors.

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The harmonies are seductive and welcoming; the songs arrive with open hearts and open minds, filled with compassion. Mostly it’s three voices, but there’s some instrumental accompaniment here and there. String used sparsely, a piano here and there to fill things out. But at heart it’s three (not quite so young) ?uns who have a knack writing melodies that reach out to the heart.

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