Albums

The Wild Willing is born from a desire to collaborate, to open new doors, connect with people from all ends of the earth…something infinitely precious. This is Glen Hansards best complete work by a country mile and one of the finest albums to ever come out of Ireland.

‘Lunar Vortex Incantations’ is unapologetically pagan in its motifs, but in referring to such innate, almost prehistoric versions of wonder, Burnt Paw does indeed generate a sense of mystic awe.

Embarking on a new career at 69, Larry Sloman aka Ratso is front and centre in the flesh. It’s well deserved and supported by a cast including Nick Cave and more.

A bold, adventurous and exciting emergent name in the world of contemporary folk, as the title suggests she has her feet planted on the ground and her spirit in the skies. May she fly high.

Alternately rabble-rousing, thoughtful, pointed and lyrical if this is to be the end of McDermott’s 2 Hours then both sets see them going out in style.

Infused with both sadness and joy, pessimism and hope, it’s a cathartic and emotionally impassioned work that, both creatively and geographically heralds a new chapter in his life and career. It’s golden.

Molly Tuttle’s debut album finds her stepping away from her banjo roots towards Americana with her voice and guitar work soaring to stellar heights.

The Unseen In Between is befitting of its title; a mysterious and mesmeric edgeland offering glimpses into the underbelly of a half-remembered neighbourhood, and the trials and habits of its outcasts.

For me, ‘Union’ is the album where this incarnation of Son Volt have finally found their true voice and most authentic sound. This is the most musically rewarding album they have ever delivered.

June Tabor launched her solo career with ‘Airs And Graces’, a record that remains one of the most essential folk music records of the 1970s and beyond. This Topic Records Deluxe CD re-issue features perfect sound and an abundance of treasures found within.

A musical exploration featuring many creatives, What a Boost is a creative high for Rozi Plain, so let’s hope this subtle-but-stunning album gives her the boost she so richly deserves.

There’s an intimate, soothing breeze that blows throughout Wild Sight, the debut album from Swimming Bell…An intriguing, experimental and at times hypnotic new voice in the world of alt-folk.