News / Randolph’s Leap north
ONE OF Scotland’s top purveyors of indie-folk are gearing up to visit Shetland at the end of the month.
Glasgow based Randolph’s Leap will headline the Lerwick Legion on Saturday 31 May with local acts No Sweat and Scaldin Bragg scheduled to support.
The eight-piece band released their latest album ‘Clumsy Knot’ in April to widespread critical acclaim and they will bring every member of their posse up to the isles for the Oceana Promotions gig.
The group – who count trumpet, cello and violin in their set-up – channel the likes of Belle & Sebastian and they pivot on frontman Adam Ross’ wry humour and witty lyricism.
Shetland News caught up with the singer and guitarist to find out more about their Shetland date, which kicks off Randolph’s Leap’s festival season, and their new album.
How excited are you to be playing Shetland later this month?
“Very excited. I’ve never been before. I’m sure it’ll be a lot wilder than [my hometown] Nairn. I’ve been told to expect perpetual daylight and an otter on every street corner. That’s right, isn’t it? And all eight members are coming up. The Shetland gig was pinpointed as a ‘good day’ ages ago.”
For those who haven’t heard the band before, how would you describe Randolph’s Leap?
“Pop music for unpopular people.”
And what can they expect from your live show?
“The greatest hits. Played loud and fast. Probably too fast, to the point of sloppiness, but we’ll make up for it with civility and good old fashioned manners.”
What influences run through your music and lyrics?
“Both the last album and EP featured a lot of songs about the great outdoors which I think was a reaction to living in a city – I was trying to find a mental escape. Due to a recent change of circumstances, I get to spend a lot more of my time in the countryside so I’m feeling more at peace and looking for something else to write about. I think the best songs are written as a reaction to something, even if it’s just something small or mundane.”
You’ve just released the album ‘Clumsy Knot’ – are you pleased with the end result?
“Very. I think it sums up everything we’ve been working towards for the last few years. It showcases the full eight-piece band but also intersperses it with some lo-fi home recordings. I think it’s therefore a good introduction to Randolph’s Leap and I’ve really loved performing the ‘Clumsy Knot’ songs live recently – particularly ‘Foolishness of Youth’ and ‘Microcosm’.”
Interview & words by Chris Cope
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