Johnny Flynn - The Wrote & The WritAlbum: A Larum [2008]
an actor, poet, and americana-styled songwriter, johnny flynn was initially a member of british folk group the sussex wit before moving up to become the group's frontman. as would befit someone with such a varied artistic background, flynn cited shakespeare as an influence, as well as musicians such as john fahey and langhorne slim. flynn's debut album, "a larum" (recorded with the sussex wit but credited with his name), was released in 2008 on vertigo records in europe. before listening to the album, it's worth noting that the band is a collection of talented individuals in their own right, and they do more on "a larum" than simply providing an aural backdrop for flynn's witticisms. rather, it quickly becomes clear that the wit's intricate, meandering rhythms and melodies are a fitting complement to flynn's straightforward delivery, augmenting lyrics that would also function as poetry outside of a musical setting. the bulk of the album is geared toward both flynn's and the wit's strengths - gently rollicking tunes, engaging lyrics, warm vocal harmonies (courtesy of percussionist matt edmonds and lillie flynn), and well-timed instrumental interludes featuring horns, strings, and the occasional pair of spoons. the tangible intimacy between flynn and his group makes the album not only an introduction, but also captures the gentle, amicable nature that makes them such an inviting and satisfying listen.
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