Seems to be a bit of hype about this lot which is not always a good thing when reviewing an album. Expectancy can go up to an unrealistic point. Music is subjective after all. However I’m glad to say that Pilgrim Fathers’ debut has its moments and is at least worth some of the fuss being made about it. 

Good to see then a ‘Space Rock’ album getting some media attention. I’m a big fan of Manchester’s Amplifier as some of you will know and to me they are the current benchmark in this genre. Therefore it’s almost heart-warming to hear a homage to Amplifier guitarist/vocalist Sel Balamir’s ‘UFO taking off and landing’ guitar sound splattered about. 

When all’s said and done it is the aural landscape’s that make ‘Short Circular Walks In The Hope Valley’ (named after a walking guide) intriguing. Praise then to Dan who is credited with ‘cosmic sounds’ in the band line-up. Nice job if you can get it. 

The problem is that unlike some of their contemporaries Pilgrim Fathers are rather weak on song structure. Fine back in the seventies but now audiences want a bit more. At times the material is almost impenetrable. This is like listening to one big acid trip (which I know will appeal to some of you!) but is ultimately frustrating as after several runs through of ‘Short Circular Walks’ I still couldn’t recall a single moment in my head. 

Clearly then if you like song titles like ‘Dog Yoghurt’ this is right up your street. Its good but not as good as it thinks it is. But for a spaced out session ‘Short Walks’ is definitely worth getting hold of for the noises alone and the bluesy bits work a treat too. If they could somehow tie the whole thing together then Pilgrim Fathers would be a top band.