Green Diesel - 2025 - Onward The Sun

(49:46; Talking Elephant)




















Here we have the fifth album by folk-rock group Green Diesel, although I must confess it is the first time I have come across them. Comprising Ellen Care (violin, vocals), Matt Dear (lead guitar, vocals), Ben Holliday (bass), Greg Ireland (rhythm guitar, mandolin, dulcimer, vocals) and Ben Love (drums, percussion) this album contains six originals and some reinterpretations of old Morris tunes, a modern take on a traditional murder ballad and a cover of a Paul Giovanni composition from the cinematic soundtrack to ‘The Wickerman’. 

I have listened to and loved folk rock since first coming across Fairport Convention some 50 years ago, soon investigating Steeleye Span, Albion Band and so many more. There is something about the interaction between electric instruments and rock when combined with the tradition which makes for something very special indeed, so much so that may have personally travelled farther to see a folk-rock band than anyone else in the world, from Oxford, New Zealand, to Cropredy in 2017 for the 50th Anniversary show. So why am I having troubles with this? Having listened to it a few times I can only put it down to the vocals and personal taste. I have no doubt that Ellen has a fine voice, and for the most part she does a good job, but there are also times when she is somewhat quavery and has problems staying on the note. Some listeners may say that is just her style and there is no issue, whereas I think a different producer may have pulled her up on it. It is quite possible that this was recorded live, with minor overdubs, but while I could forgive this if it were a live set, I do have issues here. I found myself concentrating so much on her voice to see if I was right or wrong that I was not enjoying the album nearly as much as I should.

I know this has been getting rave reviews so it is probably just me, but fans of folk rock should play this on Bandcamp before making the decision whether to buy – you may well feel this is a great album, but overall it is not for me. 

Kev Rowland, October 2025

Links:
https://greendieselfolk.com/
https://www.talkingelephant.co.uk/

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