Hold in the Sun

Hold in the Sun is a suite of progressive-tinted hard rock songs that builds on the ideas and approaches from Crooked Mouth's self-titled debut release from 2003. This time around the band have created a collection of songs themed around the many ways we survive in the face of adversity - the inner strength we tap into and the comfort we find in others. Inspired by real events, Hold in the Sun represents a major step forward for the band in terms of songwriting, performance, production and the use of technology. Crooked Mouth is the self-financed recording project of Edinburgh-based guitarist/songwriter Ken Campbell. When he's not holding down the day job or looking after the kids, Ken pulls together a talented group of musicians and vocalists from Scotland and - in one case - Czechoslovakia. As with the debut album, vocals were supplied by Kenny Haig, Lynne Campbell & Eilidh MacLean, Ken provides electric and acoustic guitars and Tony Hodge delivers the big drums. Alison Mitchell stepped up to take over keyboard duties (Simon Ellis not being available) and bass guitar was split between Mike McCann (Wild Strawberry and countless session gigs) and the enigmatic Leen (Attention! The Blessed Dudes). Guesting on cello was Mike Warren, courtesy of the Edinburgh Symphony Orchestra. Hold In The Sun is published on Ken's label, Moon Brothers Music. 10% of all album sales (and downloaded tracks) goes directly to Sight Savers International, a global charity working to eradicate blindness in the third world. The striking images that accompany the music are the work of award-winning photographer Kenny Mathieson and feature the Italian theatre group Kataklo. Appreciation for 'Crooked Mouth' '...Crooked Mouth's music just shines with sincerity, originality and a genuine inspiration and often borders on magical...' ProgressoR 'A great album!' Rob Leighton, Radio Caroline 'Musically we are in an area of carefully crafted, intelligently written songs, and with lyrics that are both attentive and observant.' Dutch Progressive Rock Pages '...songs of the highest quality...' Classic Rock Society 'On all the songs the musicians get to shine. This is a very well performed and produced album, a treat for the ears' ProGGnosis.