The Bonnevilles

Folk Art & the Death of Electric Jesus, Twenty Stone Blatt Records ****

Folk Art & the Death of Electric Jesus, Twenty Stone Blatt Records ****

Two gruff 'n' ready musicians on guitar and drums? We've been here before. The Bonnevilles are more than just a Black Keys tribute act, even if the Belfast duo audibly dredge the same blues-infused well of influences. The biggest distinction lies in subtle nuances; both Andrew McGibbon and Christopher McMullan lost a parent in close proximity, and their grief lurks over their second album like a leaden spectre. McGibbon's whiskey-soaked voice is a powerful tool, driving home the likes of on of Reverbio with a steely fortitude and scaling it back for the tender shimmer of Separate Ways. Occasionally recalling the shady stalk of contemporary artists such as Dan Sartain, this is a fine, authentic collection of foot-stomping, hip-swivelling blues- rock.thebonnevilles.co.uk

Download tracks: Separate Ways, Kneel at the Altar Parts 1 2

Lauren Murphy

Lauren Murphy

Lauren Murphy is a freelance journalist and broadcaster. She writes about music and the arts for The Irish Times