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Steve Leslie: Still Walking The Line

‘Music only lives when it is shared with others’. Farmer and shearer Steve Leslie has generously taken time out to share his well penned songs – a piece of ‘real life’ kiwiana recorded with an enthusiastic group of muso friends in the Marlborough Sounds. A mellow selection of songs about ordinary people, places and moments reflecting quite an impromptu, ‘jammed out’ sound which utilises acoustic guitar, accordion, banjo, mandolin, voice and violin. Steve’s singing reminds of Luke Hurley and Paul McLaney, I can imagine Johnny Cash on a couple of these songs too. This is the kind of album one would sit on the verandah smoking a pipe to, kinda bluegrass, country and folk. The production is clear, sometimes a little cluttered but professional despite the odd bung note and shady chord change. The group’s musicianship works well with the simple chord movements and almost dreary, laid back rhythms. Steve’s lyrics are well written and New Zealand stamped, delivered with a naive sincerity and a real sense of friendship amongst the other players. Blackball Hilton has to be my fave from this collection bringing back my own vivid memories of playing there also. Overall a keen effort from Steve Leslie and his ‘Wellstrung Bluegrass Band’. For a copy, or to find out more contact Steve at
Druids@paradise.net.nz.

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