Album Review: The Honeycart Song by Bobby Benton
Bobby Benton’s 1984 release, The Honeycart Song, is a modest yet deeply evocative entry in the UK folk scene. Released under the SRT label, this album doesn’t scream for attention but quietly draws you in with its unassuming charm and heartfelt storytelling. If you’re into folk music that feels like a warm chat by a crackling fire, this one’s worth a listen.
The album’s title track, “The Honeycart Song,” stands out immediately. It’s the kind of tune that sneaks up on you—simple at first, but it lingers long after the last note fades. Benton’s voice has this raw, almost conversational tone that makes you feel like he’s sharing a personal memory rather than performing. The lyrics paint vivid images of rural life, and there’s something comforting about how Benton ties sweetness (literally, honey!) to the everyday struggles of ordinary people. You don’t just hear the song; you kinda live it for those few minutes.
Another gem is “Henry And His Bike.” It’s quirky without being over-the-top, telling the tale of a man and his two-wheeled companion. There’s a playful rhythm here, and Benton’s delivery gives it a sense of nostalgia that feels earned, not forced. What sticks with me is how relatable it is—haven’t we all had moments where an object, even something as simple as a bike, becomes a symbol of freedom or escape? This track feels like a small ode to finding joy in the little things, which, honestly, hits different in today’s fast-paced world.
Now, let’s be real: The Honeycart Song isn’t gonna blow your mind with production tricks or flashy instrumentation. But maybe that’s the point. Benton seems more interested in crafting songs that breathe and grow with you, rather than dazzling you with technical fireworks. The lo-fi quality of the recording adds to its authenticity—it’s imperfect, sure, but isn’t that what folk music’s all about?
In a way, listening to this album feels like rediscovering an old photograph tucked away in a drawer. It’s not polished or perfect, but it tells a story that stays with you. And here’s the kicker: in 2023, when algorithms dictate what music we “should” listen to, stumbling upon something like The Honeycart Song feels like finding buried treasure. Who knew a bike and a jar of honey could leave such a mark?
