Ali M Forbes, Phantom Limb, Lazy Lizards

Phantom Limb is a refreshing and timely reminder of what country and soul music can and should be. Yolanda (who toured with Massive Attack in 2008), Stew, Dan Brown, Dan Moore, Luke and Matt have settled into a stride that’s yielded a critically acclaimed debut and a growing list of memorable shows in Europe and across the pond. You don’t see many bands as musically in touch with each other – or as relaxed and at ease with their respective crafts. The band’s influences are clear but subtle – the likes of Gillian Welch, Aretha Franklin, The Band, Etta James and the Staple Singers. Phantom Limb delicately conveys the same disarming honesty that only comes from singing about the truth. Yolanda and co can bring a tear to your eye with a cocktail of hope and resignation, sadness and joy.