‘The bee that flew when summer shone, in winter cannot sting.’
Welcome my friends to a homecoming of sorts, I bring you the latest release from Julianne Regan and Tim Bricheno, who were the core songwriting team for 80’s folk rock legends All About Eve, one of my favourite bands of that era. This two song taster is a palate cleanser, a working of a traditional English folk song and their take on my all-time favourite Christmas carol.
Julianne has the voice of an angel, I do not use this term flippantly, she has grace and fervour, but the delivery is delicate and tranquil, much needed I’d say in these very trying times. All About Eve held their own at a time when Indie bands were much maligned, they were seen as the dregs of a fickle industry, sadly nothing much has changed. For those of us that are open to new ideas and those who get a little teary and nostalgic will understand my wistfulness and romanticism for this release. We set off into the snowy landscape with a distinct and dignified version of ‘In The Bleak Midwinter’ the crisp and barren surroundings are captured beautifully in the mellow and dulcet tones, the gentle fretwork lures you into a dream-like state, as your frozen soul defrosts tunefully. The second track is ‘The Snows They Melt The Soonest’ steeped in history we have a love story which contains all the elements of passion, bitterness, seeking value and worth, aching and yearning while journeying on this rocky road. These emotions are swept up and presented in a way that exudes warmth and consideration for the human soul and psyche. The songs are even more captivating with the stunning artwork, a typical winter scene, a figure finding their way through the trees, a fabulous example of how the music and cover art are matched perfectly. Both songs have that haunting quality that is alluring, teamed with unassuming, and accomplished guitars from Tim Bricheno they are the antidote, neutralising all the dismay and ice -cold steeliness this season can sometimes bring.
I recently saw a tweet from Julianne where she said that they are ‘not newsworthy’ and that hurt my heart. Talent comes in all guises, step away from what is considered normal and acceptable, there is still so much to explore and so much to learn.
I am writing this while watching the snow fall and settle on the ground, I think about all the stresses and strains of recent years, and I conclude that it is the old guard who see us through every time. This is a winter’s tale fit for this wild hearted woman.
Azra Pathan
Regan & Bricheno – Winter 2023 out now.