STEREO, GLASGOW
SHORN of the large, grey-flecked beard which was once his trademark, Willard Grant Conspiracy's leader Robert Fisher cuts a less imposing figure these days. Where once he resembled a grizzled mountain man, now he's simply a Bostonian barroom troubadour, although the delicate, acoustic alt-country style remains.

This was a largely homegrown performance, with Glasgow's Doghouse Roses (electric guitarist Paul Tasker and singer Iona Macdonald) comprising two-thirds of Fisher's backing band.

Doghouse Roses "Folk & Blues Part 1" (Yellowroom 2007)


New Scottish folk duo offer a solid mix of originals and new interpretations

Doghouse Roses second EP covers several bases, containing as it does two originals, two traditional Scottish songs and two American country classics. It opens with guitarist Paul Tasker’s “Sycamore Kiss” which is somewhat reminiscent of acknowledged influence Gillian Welch, though Iona Macdonald’s vocals recall Margo Timmins at her feistiest, as indeed they do on closing track “Sixteen Tons.”

Doghouse Roses "Doghouse Roses" (Independent 2006)

Folkies combine styles to offer up pleasant debut

Doghouse Roses hail from Glasgow and could easily be taken on face value as a folk band. This is predominantly a result of Iona MacDonald whose vocals are highly reminiscent of such folk luminaries as Sandy Denny and Linda Thompson. MacDonald has sung with Willard Grant Conspiracy so she does have some Americana pedigree. Paul Tasker takes responsibility for the guitar and most of the song writing. This debut album is a bit raw with the occasional dropped note and dissonant harmony but it is more charming for it.

Doghouse Roses - Bodega Social, Nottingham – 11th September 2009

Scottish duo Doghouse Roses exist in that hinterland where folk, blues and Americana meet, equally at home with “Blackwaterside” as “Make Me A Pallet On Your Floor.” At the Bodega Social their boundary ignoring music is demonstrated to the full as they both support and play in the dark intensity that is Willard Grant Conspiracy. The latter allows Paul Tasker to release his inner electric guitar god, as he coaxes by turns plaintive and wailing sounds from his instrument, but good though this is his work with the Roses is better.