Albums

As with the previous volume, it’s hard to believe Gillian Welch has kept a lid on the bulk of these songs for well over a decade, I can’t wait to hear what further nuggets will be revealed in Vol 3.

Finally, there is one place to go for anyone who wants the complete works of Richard & Linda Thompson… it’s exactly what you want from an essential archive trawling box set.

From the Harbour is very elegantly performed and produced, with a level of intelligence in the songs and their structure that will ensure their longevity. A quiet and patient delight.

Exposing more than just an incredible vocal range, Hannah Georgas reveals some of the complexities of All That Emotion. While not always be an easy one, the ride is well worth taking.

One of the things that Matt Costa proves with Yellow Coat is that not only does he know how to write a song, he understands its value.

Wrackline is more than a mere collection of songs, it is a stunning and complete work of art, put together with great care and skill, performed with Hield’s distinctive magic.

Reflective and tinged with sadness, but also inspirational and optimistic, this makes a persuasive claim to be up there among the year’s best.

Concerned with variations on the theme of home, Paul Armfield’s new offering, available in a beautifully presented box edition, is a majestic, timeless album, domestic bliss if you will.

Whether you are a long time admirer or a newcomer just discovering Oh Sussana’s charms, this is a sterling reminder of her artistry.

Patient, pensive and meditative, as well as witty, ironic and razor-sharp, these fully realised sketches are Bill Callahan at the top of his game.

+1 is a stunningly eclectic and talent-packed collection that accurately reflects Mike Barnett’s range and gifts as a fiddle player and composer, while generously spotlighting the talents of his musical collaborators.

Unbecoming indeed, this one is a huge leap forward for Eli Winter, it has plenty of guts and spirit and is musically rich and challenging. Excellent stuff.