Four years after going on hiatus, mariachi folk sextet Woodenbox (née ‘with a Fistful of Fivers’) return to celebrate the 10th anniversary of their breakthrough album, Home and the Wildhunt. Originally issued on Electric Honey, ‘Home and the Wildhunt’ has been remastered and is set to be rereleased Olive Grove Records in 2020. The vibrant six piece return to their spiritual home by returning to the record label that released their second and third albums.

 

Born out of lead singers and songwriter, Ali Downer self-proclaimed obsession with Spaghetti Westerns, Woodenbox burst on the Scottish music scene in 2008 causing a raucous with their distinct foot-stomping folk rock, coupled with their mariachi band sound. Incorporating a range of genres such as blues, Americana, and country, the band’s pulsating sound saw the band receiving airplay on BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio 2 and 6Music. Following extensive tours across the UK and numerous various festival appearances, the band were invited out to Texas music to play at SXSW in 2011.

 

After originally performing solo under the guise of Woodenbox, the foundation of folk-rock music collectives thumping sound was born after Downer’s drafted in long-time friend, Nick Dudman on drums. More members soon followed in the form of Fraser McKirdy (bass), Jordan Croan (guitar), Sam Evans (saxophone), and Phil Caldwell (trumpet), and so the vibrant sextet were formed.

 

Exhibiting several prolonged nods to the work of legendary composer Ennio Morricone – thanks in no small part to a prominent horn section – the resulting sound pulled together elements of folk and country. From their more laidback, reflective moments to full-on barn-raising anthems, Downer’s old school storytelling style is augmented by dense harmonies.