James Yorkston 'The Cellardyke Recording And Wassailing Society' - Album Review

James Yorkston is a serial collaborator – which, thank goodness, is not at all the same as a serial adulterer or serial killer.
In truth, the Scot’s taste is nothing short of exquisite. Teaming with The Pictish Trail and drawing heavily on the vocal talents of fellow Fifer KT Tunstall – Hot Chip’s Alexis Taylor produces – it feels like the aural equivalent of a warm fireside.
The record tells stories of life in Cellardyke, a tiny fishing village on the Scottish coast. However, to call it a concept LP would be overstating the case. It’s far too mellow, wrapping itself around you in an hour-long hug that doesn’t release until you’re at ease with the world.
There’s a charming conversational tone about ‘Guy Fawkes’ Signature’; lots of heartbreak in ‘Embers’; and a joyous energy in the staccato, double bass-driven ‘Sleep On’.
If there’s a theme to CRAWS it is intimacy. Each of the 16 tracks is carefully crafted, and full of confidence. Sometimes records like this can feel samey; there’s only so much the man-and-his-guitar style can achieve. And yet, done this well, it transcends any obvious limitations. Well worth hearing.
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