Jugularity – Big House Live

Big House – Jugularity
CD review by Chris Spencer
Another oldie, but goodie! Released in 2006, this is Jugularity’s fourth album. Recorded live, this album provides a good introduction to the band and the type of music the band performs. They are entertainers and there was much to amuse me on this CD.
They use different genres, such as jug music, folk, blues, jazz, gypsy, country and pop to bring many a smile to my face. Some of the tracks you will enjoy include “Indecisive”; “Monkey with a Typewriter” -a criticism of reporters; “Matthew Flinders” a parody based on a popular Handel air, [I particularly liked the line ‘Matthew Flinders wanted to get into the social study books]; while “Matilda mon Amour” is a French version of “Waltzing Matilda”, with some amusing French language cliches.
“Bobcat Shuffle/Dancing Bear” is an instrumental while “Sway” is another non-funny song! Despite being recorded live, there is minimal intrusion of the crowd, except for some applause. On another track, there is some smart repartee with members of the audience.
“Jug Rap” is a humourous send up of rap and hip hop and similarly “Peter’s Blues” has a go at the whole blues genre! “Ageing Folkie” has a few injokes for the folk enthusiast.
“Great Pickup Lines” uses the country tune of the Bellamy Brothers to get a few laughs, while I never thought I’d hear Hot Chocolate’s “You Sexy Thing” on a folk CD!
Jugularity keep the “integrity” – depending on your opinion – of the song, while sending up the disco genre and getting in a few jokes.