Despite announcing that he would be taking a break from new releasing music, Welsh singer and guitarist Richard Thomas could not help himself to release another album by his his one-man band Mint Biscuit. On Take Courage the main theme is to carry on and start again, even when the odds are not exactly favourable.
The album was inspired by the Top Swimmers who jump into Bassenthwaite Lake, come rain and shine. Thomas often has to remind himself that he is one of the good guys, so why not do so in a boatload of languages (Fabuloso) or point his strengths alongside his weaknesses (Please Understand Me). If life from outer space should decide to make contact, he won't reach for a gun, but offer them something to eat (Alien Sandwich) instead.
Take Courage is his most personal and intimate release to date. So when the gentle dance tune Froggyhopping comes along, a sigh of relief is in order. Thomas is here for the long run. Music can't cure everything, but it sure as Hell can make one feel better and take your mind off from all the shit that is going on.
Take Courage is a self-released album. Buy it from his website. A wealth of his output is available on CD via elasticstage.com.
Tracks:- Help Me, Children
- Take Courage
- Underneath The Sun
- Alien Sandwich
- Fabuloso
- Froggyhopping
- Rainflower Row
- Yer Mother
- Please Understand Me
- Food Festival
HCTF review of Purple Patch