David Pratt

Norwegian singer and songwriter Torgeir Waldemar’s latest offering ‘Jamais Vu’ contains slices of sonic beauty – this is high-class music that certainly deserves a wider audience.

Bennett Wilson Poole is as pure a slab of joyous Americana as you could wish to hear – Assured, cohesive and above all, a thoroughly accomplished musical delight of the highest quality. Destined to be a landmark release in the annals of the genre.

Between Wind & Water is a joyous smorgasbord of Nordic Celtic traditional music that fairly warms the cockles and lifts the spirits. The essence of world-class fiddle music has not only been captured, but distilled into 12 potent shots.

Songs About a Train confirms that Reg Meuross is, unequivocally, quite simply one of the finest singer-songwriters of our, or any other, times.  His songs leave you with memories that are ‘released into your musical world to haunt you for years to come’.

Whether you’re already a fan or not, this live album is an indispensable addition to Christy Moore’s canon of work. A quintessential release from a national legend.

Texas-based singer-songwriter Keegan McInroe returns with his fifth album on which he more often than not goes straight for the jugular with untempered, visceral lyrics – Political and entertaining, he is an artist with something to say.

Down to the Sea is a 4-track EP of covers from blues and roots duo Ma Polaine’s Great Decline, available with pre-orders of their forthcoming album. They are all great tracks and in one instance, trumps the original in spades.

The Lost Agenda is a genre-defying album from Breton musician, singer and lyricist Pol Huellou. Joined by a vast array of friends it is only after several plays that you realise the strength of the album lies in its eclectic approach with Huellou at the helm with his unique artistic vision, the sonic alchemist.

On the evidence of the music presented here by Saz’iso, Saze as a musical form undoubtedly warrants a wider exposure and should stand alongside son, marimba, fado etc. as being part of every discerning music-lover’s collection.  This release is a dish to be savoured. 

The latest offering from Pilgrims’ Way finds them pushing the envelope in a daring move which pays off beautifully on Stand and Deliver, a concept album which will raise the spirits and a smile or two.

The songs on Lucy Kitchen’s ‘Sun to my Moon’ are strong and striking, delivered with both fragility and conviction, which deserve to be heard. A gorgeous, atmospheric offering.

The Bara Bara Band are a collective who do not fear tradition. Instead, they embrace it with open arms, whimsical humour and touching melodies. You could do worse than joining their congregation.

On Rosie Hoods ‘The Beautiful & The Actual’ there are songs of “life, and death, love and betrayal, beautiful melodies and hauntingly sad lyrics.” A debut album of pure delight.