Worth your time and attention - it's more than just idle hype!

With two previous studio albums under their belt, Wille And The Bandits (note: it is Wille and not Willie) have impressed many along the way, from Deep Purple, The Kaiser Chiefs and Joe Bonamassa, to Zoe Ball and Bob Harris. Supporting the likes of Status Quo as well as the aforementioned Purple and Bonamassa, 'Grow' sees the trio looking to capitalise on their momentum.

'Grow' is an interesting listen, with the band themselves stating they like to include eclectic grooves and heavy rock on their records, and use unusual instruments in the process. Among the guitars, bass and drums, expect also to find dobro, lap steel guitar, electric double bass and glockenspiel...

The music is nowhere near as challenging as that might suggest, evidenced by 'Got To Do Better' opening proceedings with heavy rock augmented by a dobro break near the end. 'Gypsy Woman' is another rollicking affair, countered by the gentle vibe of 'Try To Be Yourself'.

With Matthew Brooks on bass and Andrew Naumann on percussion, Wille Edwards handles guitar and vocal duties. He is very adept at acoustic playing as the picking on 'Under The Grove' suggests. My favourite 'Son Of The Gun' is a raw, sparse rocker in the vein of the Black Keys.

There much of interest here, from slow moody cuts to rockers, rounded off by the epic twelve minute plus tour de force 'Angel'. They also have a great live reputation – I was reliably informed by the Reviews Ed that he saw them recently and was extremely impressed.

Worth your time and attention – it's more than just idle hype!

James Gaden