Albums

On Poor Stuart, Ben Somers, a saxophone and double bass player with an impressive list of collaborators offers a vast array of musical excursions and highlights on a hugely promising, first solo effort.

The mark of a successful cover is to take the original and, rather than treat it over reverentially, ruffle up its hair, give it a new wardrobe and make it your own. William Elliott Whitmore has full possession here.

The Young’uns earn themselves a very special place in the history of Ceòl Cholasa – The tiny Hebridean Island of Colonsay, population circa 120, location, on the left of Scotland in deep water, finally rose as one to give a standing ovation to the first English band to appear at the festival.

Variously embracing blues, gospel and Americana,  This Too Shall Light, is the second solo album from Amy Helm, daughter of Levon Helm. Produced by Joe Henry, it comprises of a great a mix of originals and covers.

Having released their Tucker Martine-produced fourth album Ruins, at the start of the year, Swedish songbird and songwriter sisters First Aid Kit return with this unexpected and wholly delightful EP Tender Offerings.

While the album may, as a whole, be hung with the shadows of adult life, there’s something here about the blissful innocence of childhood and a future yet unmapped.

Before their recent solo releases, Toby Hay and Jim Ghedi camped in a house in Leeds for a couple of days to put to tape an intriguing set of ten tracks. Hawksworth Grove is a lovely album; calming, rousing and beautifully played throughout.

Johnny pays tribute to the late Maart Allcock who made his final live performance at Cropredy this year and shares his highlights from the festival including Afro Celt Sound System, Midnight Skyracer, Oysterband and Le Vent du Nord.

A fearless and unconventional exploration of traditional music as this powerhouse of a band takes Irish, Scottish, and Bluegrass by the hand and spins them into an album as unique and innovative as it is technically dazzling.

Down Among the Dead Men is the sound of a band cementing their sound and having a blast playing these wonderful songs with exciting and enviable energy. An album to relish and then savour, a confident set that brings great playing together with splendid tunes to create something rather special.

Crossings represents the first offering from violinist Faith Brackenbury and pianist John Neilson. It is a superb album that shows off the synergy of their different but complementary musical voices. Music for the head and heart that comes highly recommended.

The sense of pure joy and unpretentious confidence in their music-making is tremendously powerful. With fine song notes, an insightful booklet essay and archive photos, Free Dirt’s presentation of this exceptional disc is impeccable.