Mike Davies

On his latest album, Mike Oberst explores the rich heritage of traditional Anglo or Scottish-American folk ballads from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Kirsty McGee’s ‘The Deafening Sound of Stars’ is an unqualified celestial masterpiece and the most ineffable romantic album of the year, one to fall in love with and to.

An album of hooks and musical nuances with lyrics that illuminate an increasingly problematic issue in the modern world with compassion, hope and honesty, elevating Cleverley to one of the most vital voices of today’s folk generation.

Kacy and Clayton return with Jeff Tweedy-produced ‘Carrying On’ – taking its cue from the changing seasons, an album about trials and tribulations and making it through the hard times.

On their new EP, My Darling Clementine take their long-standing relationship with the music of Elvis Costello to the next level, joined by Steve Nieve of The Imposters/The Attractions.

Three years ago, ‘Bright Lights and the Fame’ served as Michaela Anne’s breakthrough to a wider audience and airplay, Desert Rose should comfortably see her in full bloom.

Self-described folk satirist Darrin Bradbury’s sardonic sense of humour permeates his latest album. In conclusion – We need more albums and more songsmiths like this.

While Hot Club of Cowtown’s ‘Wild Kingdom’ may be arriving a  little late to put a swing soundtrack into the summer, there’s warmth and joy here whatever the season.

Possessed of the beauty and wildness of its settings, ‘The Edge of the World’ is yet another compelling album from The Orphan Brigade, to borrow from the location in which it was born, a veritable Giant’s Causeway of music, lyrics and atmosphere.

Rivers That Flow in Circles, the latest album from Birmingham’s Boat to Row, is a sublime album of intricately layered instruments and arrangements, consummately crafted and played.

It’s been said that being happy is the death blow to artistic creation, especially as a songwriter, but Dori Freeman is ample testament that a swelling heart can produce songs every bit as good as a broken one.

The latest from the Canadian singer-songwriter Del Barber follows his relocation from Winnipeg back to his rural Manitoba to become a farmer, a move that actually recharged his songwriting and gave him a clearer vision of what he was about.