Album Review: The Chaplins 'The Circus'

Courtesy: thechaplinsofficial

After touring America in 2012 and being inspired by their journey from New York to New Orleans, Jill Jackson (singer/songwriter) and Lisa Tring (drums) formed The Chaplins enrolling Johnny MacKinnon (keys) as the third member of the trio. Based in Glasgow, The Chaplins are an award-winning Americana band who released their debut album, The Circus, in September 2015

Definitely living up to the album’s Charlie Chaplin inspired title, The Circus showcases a variety of musical influences yet falls nicely under the Americana "tent" as it fuses elements of Bluegrass, Folk, Country and a even a touch of pop. From the mandolin and keys filled opener “Robin Hood” to “Seven Days,” with its hints of gospel/revival, The Chaplins continue to surprise you just when you think you have a handle on their sound. Smooth harmonies and an undeniable retro swing element shine on “Here Comes Trouble” while “The Circus” intro sets you up with an ominous melody that feels like an old Eastern European, gypsy tune. Pulsating with pop and tambourine, “On Fire” tells of the heat of the moment while “Hasty” could easily provide the background music for a silent movie. The somber “Whiskey Is My Only Friend” and the powerful “Raise The Alarm” round out a collection of well crafted tunes that are definitely worth a listen no matter which side of the ocean you reside.

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