MOSTLY Autumn have been unkindly dubbed "Mostly Awful" by their detractors for being trapped in the 1970s, aping acts long since fossilised into rock dinosaurs.

But the York band, whose influences include Pink Floyd, Deep Purple, Rainbow and early Genesis, have kept faith and built up an army of loyal fans. Mostly Autumn caught the attention of producer Bob Carruthers, who was blown away by what he called "the majesty" of their albums. Hence the major deal release of Passengers.

This album adds a rock-orientated sound to the wistful Celtic influences. The production is lavish, as lead and rhythm guitars fuse with bass, drums, keyboards, whistles, uileann pipes, bazouki, violin, cello and flute. Yet such attention to detail does not strip the musicians of energy or spontaneity. Heather Findlay's pure vocals are brought to the fore.

The compositions of Bryan Josh, main songwriter and lead guitarist, are inspired by his love for nature. Pass The Clock, his epic song trilogy dedicated to Duncan Rayson, is charged with emotion. Another highlight is the Findlay composition Bitterness Burnt, while keyboard player Iain Jennings pitches in with the atmospheric instrumental Distant Train and the stomping rocker Answer The Question.

Updated: 09:07 Thursday, October 09, 2003