French label La Nòvia delivers a showpiece album with Rain Be For Rain Bo. The label that functions like a social network showcases its musicians in diverse line-ups bringing an intriguing update to Auvergant folk music fused with singular drone. Prominent network hubs Yann Gourdon on the hurdy-gurdy and Guilhem Lacroux on the guitar create two mash-ups of the current repertoire. Among others the work of Toad and La Baracande makes an appearance.
The sections more aligned to folk music feel almost Medieval thanks to the wailing string- and wind instruments including a local type of bagpipes that accompany the tragic vocals. As soon as the voices fade away an atmosphere of mystery takes over. The musicians go wild in an incessant crescendo which climaxes dissonantly.
This drone with its air of peril makes for a fascinating twist to the musical traditions of the Auvergne region. Even though other albums of the label such as Au seuil du vent or Maintes fois make for more intriguing listens, Rain Be For Rain Bo succeeds as an accessible introduction of its solid repertoire.
Rating: Approach With Caution