Albums

What is abundantly clear on this re-issue of ‘Smokin’ The Dummy’, is that Terry Allen wrote some great songs in those first two decades of his recording career, they have languished in the alt-country shadows for far too long.

On Emma Guzman’s “Something Less Than Alone”, her words, music and voice elevate this far beyond the realms of the ordinary; she may well be the next Courtney Marie Andrews.

Featuring a number of special guests and reflecting on both love and loss, Dark Enough To See The Stars is another magnificent reminder that few shine as brightly as Mary Gauthier.

Ånon II offers something unique both in its contemporary musical expression and interpretation of these old tunes – its strength certainly lies in the communicative power of Ånon Egeland’s playing and this album will hopefully grant him some well-deserved wider exposure.

David Weir dusts off his tassels and shares his highlights from this year’s Black Deer Festival, chosen from a bill that boasts The Waterboys, Van Morrison, Lady Nade, The Felice Brothers and a whole host of up-and-coming transatlantic talent.

Paper Hearts and Broken Arrows is lush and raw, personal and narrative, all seasoned with Rod Picott’s matured voice. He says it might be the best album he’s made. I think he may be right.

On Cristina Vane’s ‘Make Myself Me Again’, she delves deeper into her Delta blues influences, delivering a top class blues album that places her up there with some of the best.

Supported by a talented guest lineup, with Tell ‘Em You Were Gold, Pharis & Jason Romero reinforce their position within the upper echelons of the global folk music community. Bathed in a warm glow, this album is a delight from start to finish.

Andrew Bird once again confirms that he is one of the most original artists in the music business. He finds a way to deal with complex topics while also attempting to simplify them…Inside Problems have never sounded quite so appealing.

Angeline Morrison’s ‘The Brown Girl’ is one of those rare records that feels perfectly weighted, entirely free of anything extraneous…the whole thing feels lighter than air. That is a remarkable achievement, given the gravity of the subject matter in many of these songs.

With ‘Cross The Rolling Water’, Hannah Read & Michael Starkey have delivered a gem of a recording, an infectious, dynamic, richly layered album that’s a timeless, irresistible and thoroughly entertaining treat.

Featuring a number of special guests including Sierra Hull and Kate Rusby, Damien O’Kane and Ron Block reunite once more on Banjophonics, a rich and rewarding album filled with energy, emotion and a huge heart.