is apparently one old-time instrument used by Gorky's on Barafundle. I like how such medieval style sounds help give the album a bit of an old pagan, celtic Wicker Man-like feel on some tracks.

First track, side 1, on "Hot Licks, Cold Steel and Truckers Favorites" by the estimable Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen. A standard rock'n'roll song, until the solo appears. On fiddle. Marvellous when that happens. Bit like the accordion break in Johnny Allans "Promised Land"
Shawms were often staples on Richard +/- Linda Thmpson records, usually or often played by the excellent Phil Pickett. For a really weird listen, try "Bones of All Men", by Phil Pickett, along with Richard T, Pegg and Mattacks, all medieval dance music with crumhorns, shawms and sackbutts to the fore. Phil Pickett was head of the New English Consort, a medieval music classical ensemble, at the same time as he was in the Albion Band, hence often turning up to gigs late, in tails and dickie. That version of the Albion Band, the "Rise up Like the Sun" line-up were truly innovative, with many influences, including Ric Sanders, long long before Fairport, dipping his first toes into trad arr, at the same time as being a touring member of Soft Machine.

Jools Holland's piano solo that closes out the song gets me everytime; it's just so at odds with the rest of the album that it's perfect. It's also a great solo, melodic and 'groovy'.

But an album that's full of surprises in terms of instrumentation is The Boo Radleys' Giant Steps. Simply wonderful. Hugely imaginative and indulgent - in a good way. My favourite moment is in Upon 9th And Fairchild when the cellos come in playing the reggae bassline, while guitars feedback. Lovely.

The mandoline on this is perfect. And as the song is short anyway it comes in earlier than expected and is just an utter joy.

Also I like the brass band that comes in in Se Lest by Sigur Ros - it's a very happy sound and brings a smile everytime I hear it. But is seriously at odds with everything that went before it.

You are right, one of my favourite moments in one of my favourite songs. Also the mandolin in Maggie May is like sunshine in a dim room.

Sigur Ros are ace and that bit is a hilight.

I'm a sucker for the old "sling on a bit of high-pitched trumpet at the end" trick. Works very well on a few Billy Bragg songs (which is prob a cornet, but what do I know?)

(I've decided to make all future 'subject' lines sound like potential Fall songs)

Like this one?