Army of Briars was formed in 2006 when the long standing folk duo of Julie & Tim Cole joined forces with maverick composer / improvisor Martin Archer and lyricist (and non-performing member) Keith Jafrate. Previously the duo had concentrated mainly on performances of traditional material, but the new studio based project aimed to combine classic sounds and songwriting craft with challenging and adventurous music and lyrics. The band's first album was completed in 2007 and is now issued on Martin Archer's Discus label.

In concert the band performs a selection of newly arranged traditional pieces alongside selections from the album. Martin's simultaneous playing of laptop plus a host of woodwind instruments enables the complex textures and arrangements of the album to be recreated on stage, and for larger scale performances where both space and budget permit, the live trio is joined by it's own mini string section for an even fuller sound.

We hope that you will find time to listen to the enclosed CD, and that you will be interested in booking Army of Briars for your live event. Bookings are handled by Martin Archer whose contact details appear on the header above

Visit
www.discus-music.co.uk
www.myspace.com/armyofbriars

"This is a pretty fantastic treat.....Whether you're a folk afficionado or you've always felt safer in avoiding its unfamiliar waters, Army of Briars offers a beautiful opportunity to broaden your musical horizons" - Rob Chimes, Sandman

"An utterly delightful and modernized spin on British folk music..... a wondrously envisioned project which makes uncommonly perfect sense." - Glenn Astarita, All Music Guide

"Beautiful, genuine folk" - Freenoise