Danny Neill

On ‘Eternity Mongers’, Michael Feuerstack has deliberately pushed himself out of his comfort zone. There is so much bubbling on the peripheries of these songs that the only thing to do is go back and listen again, an undertaking as rewarding as it is pleasurable.

Niamh Bury’s ‘Yellow Roses’ is a record that can lead the charge for the Irish Folk scene at a time when the competition is fierce. This is no small accolade, for sure, but with an album this strong, it is an almost unavoidable statement.

Ac Sapphire is an artist ready and able to express herself through music in a wholly free and unbounded way, and December 32nd is a sensational album. Without a hint of hyperbole, something seriously good is going on here.

Cuckoo Storm is a deep dive into the farthest reaches of the minds and souls of Marry Waterson and Adrian Crowley – there is little doubt that this musical marriage has been a rich and bountiful success.

‘Little Sun’ is the first Charlie Parr album on which the hand of a producer is clearly evident. “A very welcome evolution… instantly classic-sounding songs”

Itasca’s Imitation of War is a record that sounds both rooted in history yet alive and breathing as it responds and feels a way through the present-day traumas that engulf us. It is an album overflowing in wonderous moments.

Snow from Yesterday is a shimmering album from the acclaimed Austrian composer Manu Delago featuring Mad About Lemon vocal ensemble. Mesmeric and fresh, it holds a hopeful candle to the human spirit.

Katherine Priddy’s ‘The Pendulum Swing’, is an incredibly cohesive album. With the central theme being the notion of home, it hits the heart and mind with pinpoint accuracy.

“Historic Classic Concert – Live In Nottingham 1986” proves what a fascinating maze the Richard Thompson live concert archive promises to be, oh for the chance to explore the whole treasure trove in depth.

Danny Neill shares his Top 10 Albums of 2023, including Kassi Valazza, Shana Cleveland, Lisa O’Neill, Mick Flannery, Brigid Mae Power, The Circling Sun, Lankum, Ron Sexsmith and more.

On ‘Cat Power Sings Dylan’, the audience’s reaction is an outpouring of love and gratitude deservedly raining down on a timeless set of music and an artist with the depth of understanding, integrity and feeling to pull it off. What a night this must have been.  

Honey & the Bear’s “Away Beyond the Fret” is a remarkable album, especially for capturing profound personal moments alongside folklore, history, nature, superstition, and awe-inspiring tales. They live it like they sing it, with open minds, ears and hearts.