THESE five gifted musicians regale you with salty songs and tunes of the sea on their fifth album, which celebrates the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar and the death of its hero, Admiral Lord Nelson.

The New Scorpion Band create wonderful sound textures on a bewildering array of instruments, including violin, guitar, mandolin, concertina, melodeon, tuba, bassoon, hammer dulcimer and two-gallon jug. Their delightful ensemble playing reflects their passion for traditional music. The Northumbrian small pipes and cor anglais bring out the evocative melody of The Capstan Bar, a shanty that was probably never accompanied on board ship. Other highlights include The Hogseye Man, with its infectious Caribbean-style arrangement, and that evergreen folk song, The Leaving Of Liverpool. This CD is available on www.new-scorpion-band.com

Updated: 09:03 Thursday, February 17, 2005