My Darling Clementine is a UK country and alt-country duo made up of Michael Weston King and Lou Dalgleish. The pair write and sing as a duet act, drawing on the classic country pairing format associated with artists such as Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton, and George Jones and Tammy Wynette, while also bringing in elements of country soul.

Recording and style

Their album How Do You Plead? presents a set of country duets written and performed by King and Dalgleish. The record is made up entirely of original songs and is described through its links to older duet traditions as well as to country-soul figures including Delaney and Bonnie, Donnie Fritts, Bobby Gentry and Dan Penn.

Line-up and musicians

Alongside King and Dalgleish, My Darling Clementine use a group of London musicians on the album. Martin Belmont plays guitar; Geraint Watkins handles piano and organ; Kevin Foster plays bass; Bobby Irwin and Jim Russell are both credited on drums; Bob Loveday plays violin; and Alan Cook plays pedal steel.

Production

How Do You Plead? is recorded at Gold Top Studios in Chalk Farm, London. Neil Brockbank produces the album and is associated with producing the last three Nick Lowe albums, among others.

Reception

The album is described as a strong country duets record and as one of the better old-school country albums in its field. It is also noted for its original songs and its homage to the hurtin’ and cheatin’ duet tradition of classic country music.

Related musicians

The wider credits link the players in the project to a range of other artists and acts, including Graham Parker and The Rumour, Nick Lowe, Elvis Costello, Ducks Deluxe, Johnny Cash, Van Morrison, Bill Wyman’s Rhythm Kings, Jackie Leven, Los Pistoleros, Scotty Moore, James Burton, Carlene Carter, The Charlatans, Chris Hillman and Penguin Cafe Orchestra.