Broom Bezzums - Arise You Sons Of Freedom

(2007) 12 tracks: Working Men of England / West End Reel * The Blackleg Miner * The Peacock Followed The Hen / Kiss Her Under The Coverlet / The Black And The Grey * Bonny Brown Hair * Crooked Jack * Shearer's No 9 / Cahir's Kitchen * Here's The Tender Coming * Auf Wiedersehen Pet * Oakey Strike Evictions * Rigs Of The Times * The Cold House / Bagie Lantern * Chains of Tyranny.

English folk duo with songs from several centuries, mostly charting the struggles of the common man against cruel rulers and greedy factory owners. Alongside traditional miners' songs and Northumbrian dance tunes are contemporary numbers penned with a strong feel for the tradition.

Andrew Cadie and Mark Bloomer are both accomplished folk musicians, who between them play a host of instruments. The pair combine close harmony singing, fiddle, guitars, mandolin and Northumbrian pipes in densely-sculpted arrangements, balancing proficient playing with an explosive punk edge.

The songs are full of character, the tunes from English, Celtic and other traditions, some self-penned.

"crafted, honest and absolutely authentic... Very soulful... A breathtaking fireworks display of technically impressive playing." (Die Rheinpfalz)