We catch up with Richard Thompson to discuss his new record Acoustic Classics II, the longevity of a decent piece of writing and the protective nature of fans over material.

This autumn sees Sean Taylor, one of our most valuable and unique songwriters, embarking on a 30 date European tour across the UK, Ireland, Switzerland, Belgium, Holland and Germany.

The Breath, a collaboration between Ríoghnach Connolly and Stuart McCallum have released an acoustic EP via Real World Records. Watch them perform live in the studio. A powerful and moving set.

We have a real treat today from Emma Tricca with a beautifully dreamy cover of Graham Nash’s ‘Sleep Song’ (Also our Song of the Day). It was recorded by Ted Young in Echo Canyon West, Hoboken NJ on a Sunday evening while she was working on her forthcoming album

It’s tempting to say that we can expect great things from Ryan Young in the future. His quiet success to date and open, exploratory style is evidence of an impressive, budding talent. That future has already begun to open up, though. Ryan Young’s debut is a remarkable and fascinating album that no fan of traditional fiddle should miss.

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.