Unfurl The Mystic Umbrellas

Connoisseurs of Ambient Dub Goth will be delighted to hear that the legendary Mystic Umbrellas CD is now available as a free download. You can get the entire 'Langton Freeman's Summer-House Tomb' album, plus cover artwork, from the following page:

http://www.instant-automatons.com/mp3/albums/langtonfreeman/langtonfreeman.asp

On this ambitious concept piece, the Umbrellas recreate the unorthodox funeral rites of the Rev. Langton Freeman of Whilton, Northamptonshire. When he died in 1783, his body was interred in a garden summer-house as requested in his will. He had also asked to be placed upon a feather bed with a walking stick by his side, so he could enjoy his favourite country walks after the Resurrection. Now that's what I call forward planning.

Imagine Augustus Pablo jamming with The Orb in a haunted gazebo and you may get some idea of the Umbrellas' otherworldly but strangely restorative sound.

Durham Open Mic – 17/8/11

It was a quiet midsummer night’s scene at The Market Tavern this week with many artistes away on holiday. However, there was still a sizeable audience to be entertained and Honest Jack and Fishburn Mafia to hold the fort. I missed half of it as I was at the Elm Tree Pub Quiz, but despite being considerably refreshed, I was called upon to do two sets. I think I got away with it…