Albums

For the uninitiated, Waves makes a great introduction to singer, songwriter, force of nature – Tommy Alexander. There’s plenty to chew on and it’s all pretty tasty.

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.

Consistently musically infectious and emotionally weightier than it seems at first hearing, in their name change Golden Shoals have most definitely raised their bar.

Records this good are worth the wait. After a couple of spins, Blue On Blue feels like a classic from the past but continues to reveal moments of delight long after.

The Eight Gates offers a small glimpse of the bare bones, the craft and hard work that lies behind the artistry and heartbreak of Jason Molina.

Skail is a perfectly self-contained release that further underscores Malcolm MacWatt’s skill as a storyteller as well as a musician.

Named after the Celtic island that inspired their music, Iona offer misty moods, dramatic themes and strong tunes. Celebrating 30 years, they are re-releasing this début with a bonus disc.

An excellent 6-track taster EP that celebrates the 50th anniversary of British folk and blues label Village Thing Records featuring Wizz Jones, Ian A Anderson, Steve Tilston & more.

Is this a perfect performance? No… it’s better. From the unsettled start to the wall-shaking end, it’s a proper live experience that will have many chomping at the bit to return to.

Named after and solely played on a telyn rawn, a mediaeval Welsh harp, Rhodri Davies reimagines a land of Welsh bardic poetry and horse cults.

A slow burn album that mingles confusion and clarity, despair and determination, “in brokenness we are whole,” she sings. Mary Chapin Carpenter will put you together again.

It may be among the most lyrically heavy-hearted and sonically spare releases you will hear, but as an introduction to the gorgeous music of Le Ren it is an absolutely essential listen.