Listen to Jessica, the new single from Me for Queen (aka Mary Erskine). She tells us that “I just try to write songs that talk to people”. Such songwriting as this is all too rare, her sketches observe life from angles you’d maybe never considered before, beautiful imagery bringing them to life.

Musician Richard Dawson and artist Matt Stokes have collaborated on This Liberty, a cinematic and audio installation inspired by the oldest purpose-built prison in England, Hexham Old Gaol.

Today’s Tune of the Day finds mischief afoot during this session from Tim Edey and some of Scotland’s finest musicians – Charlie Mckerron, Ross Ainslie and Marc Clement.

The Gigspanner Big Band are a unique musical proposition; they are taking folk music down new and enthralling paths. They are also one of the most exciting live bands you are likely to see this year (or any year, for that matter), and this recording documents their energy, skill and hard work brilliantly.

After four albums under the band name The Honeycutters, Amanda Anne Platt steps into the spotlight on their latest release. An often laid back mix of country, Americana and roots. On tour in the UK now.

Pons Aelius are set to deliver their debut album Captain Glen’s Comfort on 8 September. Bold arrangements and a rich and vibrant blend of traditional and contemporary folk music of Britain make them a must see band. Catch them at Bath Folk Festival next week.

Seamus Fogarty will release his new album The Curious Hand on October 6th via Domino Records. Watch his new video for ‘Carlow Town’ which recounts with Homerian flourish, a night spent sleeping in a church.

Our tune of the day comes from two Sheffield-based musicians Liz Hanks on Cello and Michael Walsh on flute performing Tribute to Peadar O Donnell, a tune composed by Donal Lunny and performed originally by Moving Hearts on their album The Storm (1985).

Nashville-based singer-songwriter Rachel Baiman’s ‘Shame’ is a defiant album full of riches, a departure from her previously stripped down offerings, there’s plenty of groove-based offerings here despite the weight of the subject matter.

Alan & the Big Hand’s unusually titled album ‘Yellow Car No Return’ offers a diverse listening experience as his rural lyrical offerings get re-cast by his Hull-based collective.

Emily Askew announces new album with her band featuring Jamie Roberts, John Dipper, Simon Whittaker and Louise Duggan. Together they explore medieval and renaissance melodies and bring them into a new contemporary folk style.

Melbourne’s The Mae Trio return with their strongest album to date ‘Take Care, Take Cover’ featuring a host of guest musicians it underscores the ever growing potential these girls have to capture a truly international stage. Don’t miss their UK & Ireland tour which kicks off in September.