9/10

01.10.12 | Reveal Records

With only four out of nine tracks containing any lyrics, Race the Loser isnÔÇÖt your average folk album. The album is instrumentally led and sees familiar, traditional Celtic tones blended with more modern sounds.┬á The result is an album which is dynamic and innovative whilst still maintaining an authentic folk feel. ItÔÇÖs easy to assume that an album with few lyrics falls into the trap of each track sounding the same but Lau avoid this and each song is distinctly different from the last. Although the albumÔÇÖs primary focus is instrumental, when lyrics are introduced they are poignant and poetic, a perfect accompaniment to the rustic and inviting tones of the violin which features heavily. For people who like their music to be moving, Throwing Pennies is beautifully evocative and thought-provoking without being overstated – a must listen.

While Race the Loser is a comparatively short album with only nine songs, listeners wonÔÇÖt be disappointed as the tracks┬áare of epic length, ranging from four minutes to just under eight so you really get your moneyÔÇÖs worth. Lau have succeeded in creating a diverse and progressive album; donÔÇÖt let the fear of instrumental music put you off or you might miss this masterpiece of modern folk.

Ellen Davies