First appearing as an ebook in 2014, Jim Irvin’s examination of Denny, Mitchell and Bush is now in paperback, serving as primers for each and comprising a well-researched biography – often featuring the author’s own interviews – playlists and vinyl discographies.
The ‘wild flowers’ in the title alludes to how the artists “blossomed in their own space, off to one side of the mainstream”. An appealing concept, it reflects personality traits and creative approaches in affectionate, factually accurate and pacy renderings. Readers might well know of Sandy Denny – her preternatural skill as a songwriter and
performer and her earthy demeanour – but it’s still shocking to read of her struggle with alcohol, her personal life, and her tragic final days. Irvin’s quotes from Sandy’s father Neil are heartbreaking.