Benji Kirkpatrick - Boomerang

Though the new album is inspired by the folk scene in which he grew up, most tracks are original and self-penned. The subjects explored are wide-reaching and many of the themes contemporary, ranging from the problems in small rural backwaters (Rocky Brown), to songs which make reference to conflicts in the Middle East (Willow Weeps). The title track showcases Benji's effecting, driving guitar style, whilst'Wallbreaker is a riddle song, about the overriding power of nature, regardless of human efforts to control it.

The album features Ben Nichols (bass) and contributions from Sue Harris, John Kirkpatrick, Seth Lakeman and Stu Hanna, (who also produced the album). As well as being a soloist, Benji has also collaborated with peers and veterans of the scene on various ventures. He has worked with Nationwide Mercury Prize nominee Seth Lakeman and appeared on Seth's last two award winning albums; 'Kitty Jay' and 'Freedom Fields'. Oysterband invited Benji to join them on their Big Session tours of 2001 and 2003 with Cara Dillon, Eliza Carthy and Jim Moray. Benji is one third of Faustus � formerly Dr Faustus � along with fiddle and oboe ace Paul Sartin and Waterson:Carthy member Saul Rose and a founding member of big band Bellowhead.