Q Magzine: Paper Covers Stone

Tuesday, 20th October 2009

Californians re-imagine their back catalogue.A collective of up to 14 members, centered around vocalist Robert Fisher, Willard Grant Conspiracy have gone back to basics with their excellent ninth album, largely re-recordings of their own songs by a drummer-less four piece. The stark setting suits them, with Fisher's deep voice-sounding variously like Nick Cave and Johnny Cash - placed center stage. The seven-minute Preparing For the Fall sounds apocalyptic, as feedback howls around and Fisher intones, 'The Earth begins to shudder/The lightening creates a fire".Vespers and Scars meanwhile, ares slices of gripping acoustic Americana.- Phil Mongredien.