Peter Knight’s Gigspanner - Turnstone

Turnstone is the name of a bird that rolls little stones over in search of food or treasures. The latest live album by Peter Knight’s Gigspanner Big Band takes its name from this fascinating animal, identifying the work of folk musicians with the one of this bird, looking for new potential and resources among old material, apparently worn out by the passing of time, but still able to hide surprises.

Apart from a few incursions into transatlantic territory, the album, recorded live during the band’s tour in Autumn 2024, is a collection of traditional English songs. The trademark originality of the band’s settings in immediately displayed in their rendition of early 17th century ghostly Child ballad The Suffolk Miracle and by the grand interpretation of Sovay that follows it.

Elements of rock, classical, jazz and world music have always been the core of this collective’s sound, but this release really showcases not only their inventiveness, but also the strength of their musicianship. Fiddle, guitar, dobro, harmonica, melodeon, percussions, and more join together to craft coherent and effervescent soundscapes in which every voice shines without obscuring the others. This is particularly evident in their peculiar rendition of old classic Fortune Turns Her Wheel, here performed definitely slower than one could expect, extolling the poetic power of the lyrics.

Despite being an album of mainly songs, tunes play a key role in the overall picture. The choice of tunes like the 16th century Bagpipers and the original Arthur Peter’s Reel to accompany songs adds a touch of individual personality and underlines the band’s eclectic soul. A special mention goes to the spectacular instrumental Northern Frisk / The Red Haired Boy / Moth from Upstairs that closes the release on a high and that features stunning solos by each member of the collective.

Well balanced, captivating, at times flamboyant, Turnstone is arguably the best album the Gigspanner Big Band has ever produced. And it is no coincidence that it was recorded at one of their very in demand live shows.