No Petticoats Here

This is a gutsy and meticulously researched project paying tribute to the largely forgotten stories of female heroism in World War I. The album title sums up Wiltshire singer-songwriter Louise Jordan's shoot-from-the-hip approach. It is a reference to a note from Lieutenant General Sir Arthur Sloggett who rejected Dr Elsie Inglis’ offer of a medical team for the war effort: ‘My good lady, go home and sit still. We don’t want any petticoats here.’

The acerbic strain of humour in Jordan's lyrics tempers what might become overly nostalgic and sentimental stories. Jordan transmits the strength of the characters she portrays, all women who asked only for the right to serve equally. The war efforts of land girls and factory workers are commonly remembered but Jordan's heroines also include a spy, frontline ambulance drivers and a war correspondent dressed as a male soldier. Musically, the album is dominated by Jordan's hypnotic piano, rolling like a tide. She also plays guitar and cello and is joined by different instrumentalists on different tracks: from Sarah Scutt's clarinet and accordion to Gay Cullingford's violin. This is an arresting album and an important historical document.