Lindisfarne - Don’t Hide The Treasures III: A Folk Rock Gem That Feels Like Home
Alright, let’s talk about Don’t Hide The Treasures III by Lindisfarne. This album is one of those hidden gems that sneaks up on you when you least expect it. It’s got that raw UK folk-rock vibe, the kind that makes you wanna grab a pint and sit by the fire while reminiscing about stuff you didn’t even know mattered to you. Released under Not On Label (yep, they really went with that name), this collection feels more like a scrapbook of memories than a polished studio project—and honestly? That’s what makes it so damn charming.
The genre here is rock, but don’t go thinking this is some heavy metal headbanger fest. Nah, this is folk-rock through and through—acoustic strums, heartfelt lyrics, and melodies that stick in your brain like an old friend’s voice. And because it’s Lindisfarne, you know there’s gonna be a mix of live tracks, remixes, and alternate versions. It’s basically a treasure chest for fans who can’t get enough of their sound.
Now, onto the tracks. There are some real bangers here, but two stood out to me like neon signs in the fog: “Run For Home (Live 1982)” and “We Can Swing Together.” Let’s break ‘em down.
First off, “Run For Home (Live 1982).” Man, this version hits different. You can tell it’s live—the energy just jumps outta the speakers. The crowd noise in the background adds this gritty authenticity that no studio recording could ever replicate. Plus, Alan Hull’s vocals have this raspy edge that feels like he’s singing directly to you. Every time I hear it, I picture myself running barefoot down a rainy Newcastle street, which sounds kinda miserable but trust me, it works. It’s nostalgic without being sappy, if that makes sense.
Then there’s “He Can Swing Together,” or wait, sorry—“WE Can Swing Together.” This one’s just pure joy bottled up into four minutes of foot-stomping goodness. It’s catchy as hell, with harmonies so tight they feel like a warm hug. There’s something about the way the band layers the instruments—it’s not overproduced, just simple and effective. When the chorus kicks in, you’ll find yourself humming along whether you want to or not. Bonus points for including both the original and US version; it’s fun hearing how small tweaks change the mood.
Other highlights include “Tynemouth Song,” which paints these vivid pictures of coastal life, and “Lady Eleanor ’88,” where the melody feels haunting yet uplifting at the same time. Oh, and shoutout to “I Remember The Nights (A Capella)”—it’s stripped-back and vulnerable, showing off the band’s vocal chops without hiding behind any fancy production tricks.
But here’s the thing: listening to Don’t Hide The Treasures III isn’t just about enjoying individual songs. It’s about soaking in the whole vibe. These guys weren’t chasing trends—they were making music that felt true to them, warts and all. And honestly, doesn’t that make it feel kinda timeless?
So yeah, give this album a spin if you’re into folk-rock with heart. Just don’t blame me if you end up daydreaming about British seaside towns and wondering why your own life isn’t half as poetic. Also, fun fact: after finishing this review, I realized my cat was staring at me the entire time. Weird flex, but okay.
