The concept came from a vintage map (c1860) found during a search for a starting point. The map showed much more than just the countries of the world, it showed details of mountain ranges, rivers, native fruits and other crops, even information on snowfall.
It fitted perfectly with the concept of Atlas which was about being open, more revealing, looking deeper, ‘mapping moments and journeys in life…’, and not just a collection of songs.
“The World in hemispheres: with comparative views of the heights of the principal mountains and basins of the principal rivers on the globe / by G.H. Swanston”
We made use of the age of the map, showing its wear, its damage, its authenticity.
“Keep Music Live” is a mantra of Joe’s and an all acoustic, laid down in a single take, warts and all live release of Atlas was also happening.
Our answer for this version followed the sound and we took away the textures, the images and the sleeve notes leaving only the songs.
Backed up by our material and two appearances on BBC Introducing, the album was launched with a live performance at one of Shrewsbury’s fashionable venues.
Concert photos © Verity Gray
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