The Shires

The Shires – Ben Earle and Crissie Rhodes – are a new band that play Country music as if they came from South of the US, rather than the South East of the UK, they are that good.

From the first note it’s clear that Nashville Grey Skies is cast from the classic Country mould: The harmonies and the guitars are a given, but there’s also a good hearted verb and vigour about this song that makes it sound so natural and refreshing. Crissie Rhodes is a real find possessing a versatile voice capable of real power, but also great warmth and subtlety. Ben Eearle's playing is first class and together with Rhodes's vocals it's obvious that there's a genuine affection for the music.

Although these are very early days for The Shires – they’ve just played a handful of dates - they’ve already secured a deal, played the O2 at the annual Country to Country Festival and are now penning their debut album. This single should arouse some interest, making their next release, not to mention the album, eagerly awaited.