David Pratt

Proving “Small can be Beautiful”, David Pratt heads to the Mid Sussex Americana & Ale Festival to take in Jamie Freeman, Porchlight Smoker, Native Harrow, Bennett Wilson & Poole, William the Conqueror, Trevor Moss & Hannah Lou, Jason McNiff & more.

Onward! The Photos is a superb memento and celebration of the first fifty years of Ian A Anderson‘s career. A vitally important figure in the history of folk, roots, acoustic and World music, it is surely time for a full and appropriate recognition of his pivotal contribution.

Ben Walker has said that “Making this album has felt a bit like a treasure hunt”.  On the evidence presented here, there is no question that the treasure has well and truly been found. Ben’s reputation for melding tradition with ground-breaking, innovative, indeed passionate, music, is truly enhanced with this exceptional release.

Le Vent Du Nord are not only the leading exponents of traditional Québecois music but also one of the world’s foremost purveyors of folk music. Territoires is an outstanding release, confirming their status as a pre-eminent force in their field.

Sparks is an alluring, accessible and thoroughly enjoyable album which holds the listener’s attention throughout and fully reflects the passion that the duo have for their heritage and tradition…lose yourself in this treat of an album.

Bold Champions is a magnificent release, showcasing traditional, mainly English, folk music at its very best. The Dovetail Trio dare to boldly go where others fear to tread and will surely receive fully-deserved success and plaudits.

The Story Song Scientists is a wonderfully intriguing release which showcases intelligent songwriting and delightful voices in equal measure.  I hope that we have have not seen or heard the last of their working together to produce music of the finest quality.

Here There’s No Sirens is the first solo album from Case Hardin’ main-man Pete Gow. It’s a remarkable record, engendering, in varying proportions, elements of beauty, discomfort, empathy and guilt.  Something for everyone then.

Dreams About Falling is a musical tour de force, and undoubtedly his best release to date, and one can only see Jamie Freeman’s star ascending as a result.       

Whereas Lucy Kitt’s 2012 E.P. could possibly be seen as a cabochon, Stand By is a full-faceted gem of an album. It is difficult to believe that it is not the product of a Laurel Canyon habituée, such is its veracity, especially given the fact that it is a debut.

Bassekou Kouyaté’s fifth release sees him in a more lugubrious, reflective mood, ‘an album about love, friendship, family and true values in a time of crisis.’ Extraordinary and beautiful music.

The Maritime Suite charts a fascinating voyage, and Fellside are to be congratulated on a splendid package. This release serves to further confirm and cement Peter Bellamy’s elevated stature and status.