Plenty to enjoy so long as you are happy to groove along to its somewhat Bluesy chill-out vibes.
As we've often commented, there must be something in the Swedish water that causes so many talented locals to pick up instruments and deliver classy music in every genre. Backwood Spirit is the brainchild of Kent Engström, a guitarist who was lucky enough to rope in legendary vocalist Göran Edman to provide the required heft to what is a very soulful experience.
Musically, we're sat comfortably in territory marked out by bands such as The Black Crowes and Free to name but two. Yes, it's the Blues and thankfully the interesting sort, which is a bonus. There are only eight songs on offer but they have a real weight to them, much of it provided by Edman's powerful and very emotional vocals. Of course, a Bluesy album wouldn't be the same without some quality guitar and Engström doesn't slack off in the guitar department either.
The standout track for me is the slow and incredibly soulful 'Ain't Got Love', but I'm confident many will get a real kick from the livelier 'When Love Comes Around', which sees the addition of some nice keyboard backing and sounds like a lost TBC track.
If there's any criticism to be had of 'Backwood Spirit', it's that it's not exactly a fun album; the majority of the material is rather laid back, yet if you're in the right mood, it really mellows you out. Some amusement could certainly be had by introducing people to it and trying to convince them it's a Swedish band. However, if you're on your own, there's still plenty to enjoy so long as you are happy to groove along to its somewhat Bluesy chill-out vibes.
Alan Holloway
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