Concert Review: Orphan Colours (Ramblin' Roots Review at Bucks New University - Sunday 6th April 2025)

Written: 7th April 2025

The three-day indoor Ramblin’ Roots Revue music festival returned to High Wycombe for a seventh year over the weekend of 4th – 6th April, boasting more than thirty Roots, Americana, Bluegrass and Alt-country acts from the UK, Europe and the USA. Among the most interesting bands playing on the Sunday were Orphan Colours, a band formed from the ashes of folk acts Ahab and Noah and the Whale.

With their blend of various sub-genres, the band appeal to a range of listeners and the hall fills up as their set time approaches. First track Free is a wonderful example of the styles that influence the band. Gritty Americana and soulful rock come to the fore as the infectious rhythms build on a soaring track that lyrically paints a picture of small-town gossip, jealousy and fleeting romance. I was getting high / Coming round / I could see the city lights / Call all your friends / We’re gonna blow their fuse. Solos from guest saxophonist Nik Carter – who plays on several songs on the band’s most recent album – and former Noah and the Whale guitarist Fred Abbott add to the song’s swaggering rock ‘n’ roll feel.

Next, we are treated to High Hopes, a track that dates back to the band’s debut EP. Orphan Colours are blessed with several excellent vocalists and while Steve Llewellyn takes the lead on the vast majority of songs, guitarist Dave Burn and bassist Lee Childs deliver wonderful backing vocals and harmonies. Some delightful slide guitar from Abott brings a different element to the song and while Orphan Colours never fully step into the country genre, the harmonies are certainly reminiscent of the Eagles at times. By this point, the band are smiling at each other, clearly enjoying their time on stage as much as the receptive and appreciative audience. During their twelve song set, the band introduce some new material to the audience, the first of which is The Optimist, a track that demonstrates the band are finding a direction they believe in.

There is something deceptively simple about the music of Orphan Colours; however, there is an intelligence to their compositions. Lead guitarist Fred Abbott adds delicate flourishes throughout and his solos are well structured and thoughtful. The use of three guitars – in addition to Abott, Llewellyn is normally found on an electric guitar and Burn on acoustic providing rhythm support – adds a richness to their sound that mirrors the layered vocals. Start of Something – which is redolent of artists such as Jackson Browne - and Blame It On The Weather are further examples of Llewelyn’s ability to write appealing heartfelt music. Deft touches from bassist Lee Childs keep everything moving and with drummer Steve Brookes never overwhelming any song, Orphan Colours establish a wonderfully balanced sound that also points to great work from behind the mixing desk. King of Alchemy is a more shimmering track that has the aura of Springsteen’s more folky, roots rock moments, the impressive sax solo from Carter further bringing those atmospheres to mind.

There is a clear camaraderie between the band and although Burn comments that there is less talking from the stage as this is a festival and they want to play as many songs as possible, it is clear that the audience are fully invested in what Orphan Colours have to offer. Amongst a set of deliberately more up-tempo material, The Vibe (with Burn on lead vocals) showcases an alterative side to the band and an attentive audience give the relaxing tones the opportunity it needs to float gently throughout the venue. In complete contrast, Radio – a song written by Burn and Lee Childs some twenty years ago but never used in their former bands – really raises the pulse and is one of the most energetic songs we hear tonight. Something slightly different to what has come before, Childs seems to visit almost every fret on his bass as the lively rhythm gets the audience moving. It will be interesting to see how such a track fits in with other material intended for album number three.

As the set draws to a close, Brighter Days and Won’t Let You Down – with a fiery lead break from Abbott - highlight the range of material the band have to offer. On stage (and off), the band are an unassuming, likeable group who simply enjoy making good new music. There is nothing arrogant or showy about their performance and the feel-good-vibe of the show can be felt in the crowd. Nik Carter rejoins the quintet on stage for last song Goodnight California rounding off a highly enjoyable concert.

A band that deserve to build a bigger following, Orphan Colours effortlessly deliver enthralling and emotionally charged performances. With a set moving from intimate ballads to rockier numbers, their tight musicianship and rich vocal harmonies wonderfully complement their heartfelt storytelling. Fans of Americana and folk rock but also acts such as the Eagles, Jackson Browne and even Crowded House will find much to enjoy within their music. Roots music with a modern pulse.

Orphan Colours online

https://linktr.ee/orphancolours