Richard Hollingum

If you want to hear a fine example of the harp in the contemporary folk music of Ireland, then listen to Ocean of Stars, the new EP by Brídín who comes from a long line of musicians stretching back four generations.

Soaked is the latest offering from Brussels-based trio Las Lloronas – it’s cool, jazzy and has great harmonies. It won’t fit in a box so don’t try, and perhaps it may not be what you expect but this is an album for repeat play. Excellent.

Having listened to ‘Draft’ by duo Hairetis Harper, I know I have missed things: subtleties, hints, conversations. And I shall return, many times. For the listener and for the musicians, this is exploring, extemporising, excellent.

An Bhuatais & The Meaning of Life exemplifies the sean nós tradition and beautifully continues it along its path. By all means, dig deeper, read the superb accompanying booklet, but first of all, enter the space and just listen. Excellent.

Richard Hollingum shares his Top 10 albums of 2020 including Burd Ellen, Robb Johnson, Kronos Quartet, Patti Smith, Avocet, Mhairi Hall, The Bonny Men, Eoghan Ó Ceannabháin and Ultan O’Brien and more.

Solas an Lae is the complete package, the tune and the words and the presentation together encompassing the emotional tales of the tragedy of life. To me, this is what makes sean-nós what it is. Excellent.

Kronos Quartet deliver an album of the highest quality, a great celebration of Pete Seeger, the justice he stood for and the encouragement to stand up for ourselves and our community, a great addition to any collection. Excellent.

Richard turns back the clock with Earth’s excellent new Trees collection bringing together both their albums and adding shiny alternate mixes of key tracks along with a selection of radio sessions and demos.

A really enjoyable trio of tunes from Sairie. Their distinctive sound sits well alongside Espers, The Eighteenth Day of May, and The Incredible String Band. I look forward to hearing more.

Joan Baez has given so much to the world, music and activism that it is surprising how little has been written about her. This is an excellent starting point.

The observations, commentaries, responses to the pandemic by Robb Johnson strike more than a note. Listen and make sure that these were The Days We Don’t Forget.

Peradam is the final release in a triptych of albums from Soundwalk Collective with Patti Smith that evoke and explore the sainted spaces of thought and creativity – intriguing; absorbing; excellent.