The Proclaimers – Sunshine On Leith (1988)

The Proclaimers first came to my notice at The Flaedh, held annually in Finsbury Park; although an Irish celebration it involved a wide range of bands and artists.  I had heard the name but dismissed them as just another band – but of course I was wrong.  They were brilliant.  This is actually their second album, but the first I bought – and their biggest seller.  Although practicing Christians, they don’t shove their Religion at their audience, though there are obvious references here and there. A duo, twin brothers actually, born in 1962 and proud Scots who sing with their native accent to the fore, which adds to the sound and style brilliantly.  A genuinely different approach to writing and singing.  Such a rewarding album, every song is a gem – but especially ‘500 miles’, ‘Cap in Hand’ and ‘Oh Jean’. Great stuff.