David Kidman

This is an outstanding album, one to play both to aficionados of Irish traditional music and lovers of the piano, as well as those listeners who are receptive to fresh perspectives on the traditional repertoire. A total delight, in other words.

The music within the live recorded ‘The Bonnie Bells of Oxford’ is great, as is the sense of atmosphere, the live chemistry and total involvement of all concerned. It’s a compelling and exciting audio document with a desirable “wish I’d been there” vibe.

The Salted Air is the latest album from British-Lebanese musician and songwriter Nadine Khouri. The album presents her personal reflections on loss and transformation and also confirms her as a name to watch for in 2017.

March Glas is a great debut album for Elfen, not least in being well representative not only of the special interpersonal “connection” that clearly exists between the band members but also of the trio’s high degree of instrumental and vocal inventiveness.

This duo’s positive drive and clear, confident and distinctive sense of musical identity are both introduced and confirmed here – which is not an easy feat for a debut album.

Dodgy Bastards, the latest offering from Steeleye Span, places an audible degree of emphasis on a heavier-duty rock sound. There is a wealth of classic nimble prog-rock-styled guitar manœuvres and an outstanding strength and flexibility in the coordinated harmony work. The newer band members are also given the chance to shine.

Louise’s magnificently accomplished show is not only a polished and professional presentation but also a superb evening’s entertainment – an assessment enthusiastically endorsed by the organisers and their capacity audience.

A New Ground admirably follows the acknowledged Home Service practice of complementing keen philosophical and politically aware commentaries in song – stirring, diverse and creative. A magnificent team effort with John Kirkpatrick as vocal frontman.

Native Texan, Jess Williamson returns with her debut follow-up, Heart Song, an altogether tougher and more confident product that nevertheless exhibits an intense inner vulnerability.

Over the course of three studio albums, Merry Hell has grown into a mighty eight-piece outfit that can take on any and all-comers at their own game and emerge victorious on all counts. Bloodlines is no exception which makes them prime contenders for the accolade of the nation’s premier folk-rock band at the moment. Read our review and watch their new title-track video.

Those people, whom she honours and sings for, represent the “past generations who have sung those songs to us and carried them through”. And in doing so, Shirley has produced an album of true stature, and one that’s destined to remain in your affections.

Water of Tyne is the first CD release from Magnetic North East CIC, a community interest company promoting the music, arts, culture and heritage of the North East of England. Brought together by Kathryn Tickell the album includes guest appearances from the likes of The Unthanks, Hannah Rickard, Bob Fox and Mike Tickell. A truly lovely collection.