In the deepest void there is a presence, a dull, lifeless drone of single pitch that vibrates indefinitely. Out of the darkness emerges a blossom that is Joseph Platt, whose lilting voice gradually releases the knot of tension and spreads a layer of compassion onto which the tale is told.

The cursive sweep of the harp’s chords twines a basket to rock the lullaby flavour of the melody, undisturbed when the ensemble rises to sing together with bravado, like heroes from the story sprung to life.

Such an expressive character abides in the delivery of the words, reflecting a variety of moods respective of the words in each phrase. A violin roams free, introducing a subtle folk element to embellish the boys’ musical line.

With the grand entrance of an organ comes the last verse which blooms with pride and determination. The opening is broadened further with the sudden spread of harmony in the last chorus line; the powerful climax teeters for a lingering moment until Joe’s voice, drifting and sleepy, closes the book.

Copyright © 2004 Merewyn Bramble, Benj Schatzmann, Stewart Simpson