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An International Treasure

Tim Slover | Provo, Utah | 12/10/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I am rarely moved to comment on artistic endeavors, but I can't help but comment on this one. Show of Hands, the West Country English band, is an international treasure. Passionate, intelligent lyrics speak the voices of an astonishing cross-section of the human experience. These are songs that matter. They take one into other worlds, other lives, with a rare grace, understanding, and compassion. Melodies, carried by Steve Knightley's searing, soulful voice and Phil Beer's sweet and poignant one, are tuneful, memorable, but never cloying. The musicianship is superb, and their legendary concerts actually life-changing. I was hooked by Country Life in 2004, and ranging up and down their catalogue of songs issued before and after that album has been one of the most magical musical journeys of my life. Now they have issued a "Best of" album. Buy it. You'll see."