Clutching At Straws are an alternative folk trio who use a variety of instruments to build a full, layered sound suffused with subtleties. Their influences are diverse and eclectic with hints of everything from the irony of bluegrass through to the drama of musical theatre.
Clutching At Straws‘ musical idiosyncrasies are matched by the real coup de theatre of their lyrics. Real life observation and experience lend themselves to songs that are deep and meaningful, full of dry English humour and laced with a healthy dose of tongue in cheek, that is often intentionally subversive.
Straws’ live shows are brimming with energy and audience interaction and invite audiences to share in stories that are bigger than themselves, keeping Clutching At Straws rooted in folk ideology. A Straws’ gig promises to be a highlight for the hardcore music fan as well as a treat for the layperson enjoying a pint in their local.
This Table Changes Everything is Clutching At Straws’ first release since the quartet became a trio in January 2015. The transition has been a testing but highly developmental period leading the band to explore new styles and new ways of conveying their passion for music making. ‘This Table Changes Everything’, written during that transition, celebrates the power of the everyday, to overcome otherwise overwhelming obstacles. Taking a step back, we see that sharing life with other human beings, through a shared meal, allows us to uncover our own humanity and our own worth. Eating together brings down walls, power structures, egos and facilitates reconciliation. “Take a seat, sit with me, recline and simply be. Take a seat, renounce your ‘self’, then you’ll find you’re free”.
“The world that was a stage, becomes a battlefield, [in] a relentless but well delivered piece of sung oratory.” Liverpool Sound and Vision