Live Review

JOHNNY FLYNN AND THE SUSSEX WIT – CARDIFF, CLWB IFOR BACH

• 18th Feb 2008

You read it here first – the Renaissance man of days of yore does indeed still exist.

Accompanied by his equally adept Sussex Wit, Johnny Flynn cuts a dashing figure as he demonstrated with modest aplomb his proficiency on trumpet, violin, banjo, mandolin and resonator guitar to name but a few- oh and not forgetting the vocals.

To define the sound it is unavoidable to draw parallels with folk, country, anti-folk and alt country – terms which seem to be banded around with careless abandon at the moment – wear a check shirt – it’s inevitable! Unashamedly traditional in style the band exudes a timeless English folk quality but with a reviving energy that brings new life to the genre.

The Sussex Wit consists of a cellist, a bassist, Johnny’s sister Lily on backing vocals, and Matt the drummer – all band members played at least one other instrument during the course of the set – so accomplished were they that the chopping and changing of instruments among band members between (even during) songs did not interrupt the flow. The band appeared comfortable with one another allowing each other to diversify and fulfil their sound potential – without egos competing and trying to hog the limelight.

The excitement and buzz that precedes this performance is clear from the packed out Clwb on a Sunday night. Being in so many ‘one to watch’ polls this year has not done the bands popularity any harm.

With his easy, deep, honest voice contrary to his boyish appearance the audience was entranced with a sincere stare as Johnny ministered to his congregation with tales of modern morality.

The single ‘Leftover’s’ came with the rousing force of a freight train storming through a one horse town to the beat of a country stomp.

‘The Box’ seems to best sum up the breath of fresh air this band promises to be – “sweep my mess away, leave my body leave my soul” – an important takeover is happening – gone is the clutter of peripheral, useless music, in it’s place is real music with meaning and honest soul. Johnny Flynn and the Sussex Wit deliver an enduring sound, updating a traditional form with their energy and proficiency, with the lyrics bringing the songs into the 21st century but not in a way that will make it seem out of date in a couple of years. I left the gig with a revived sense of excitement about music – I can’t recommend it enough.