Albums

Where this collection succeeds is in bringing together a fine platter of masterclass high points from a 50+ year career that, for the first time in some cases, finally gives Norma the kudos she deserves.

While it’s an interesting collection of choices, it’s a stunning piece of work from an artist who may be putting his travelling shows away but, at 76, remains at the peak of his creative and musical powers.

With captivating music and song, fascinating snatches of interview, and immersive soundscapes, Northern Flyway takes us on a journey through our own relationship with birds…to the hopes and dreams that have defined humanity since we first looked to the skies.

An album of personal and political power, passion and perception, it is hugely persuasive proof that Petrie most deservedly earns her place at the table.

Johnny continues his highlights of this year’s Wickham Festival including Vishtèn, Ímar, Talisk, The East Pointers, Gordie MacKeeman, The Dhol Foundation, Hò-Rò, Flook, Bella Gaffney and Polly Bolton, Drever, McCusker and Woomble and more.

Young Waters’ debut offers strong vocals, sweet-toned harmonies, stirring instrumentation with melodies and rhythms that alternate from intricate to exhilarating, and all stations in between. In short – innovative, enthralling and enchanting.

Barry and Laura have together made a scrapbook of their life in traditional music and it is truly lovely. There are no airs or graces, no production gymnastics, just a unique snapshot of how these siblings will forever be joined through a living tradition that they themselves have now passed on.

Kitty Macfarlane’s Namer Of Clouds sets her apart as a singular songwriting talent. It is an album to savour, a debut full of old wisdom and bubbling over with new ideas.

Purbeck Valley Folk Festival put on another great festival this year with great performances from Siobhan Miller Band, Sam Kelly and the Lost Boys, Trad.Attack!, Naomi Bedford and Paul Simmonds, Jez Hellard and the Djukella Orchestra, Jenn & Laura-Beth and more.

Kansas City Out Groove is an album brimming with confident and accomplished musicianship, first-rate vocal performances, and an abundant, utterly infectious, relish of the music itself.

While the Punch Brothers embrace a melting-pot of influences on All Ashore, it always feels organically driven. It’s intimate and inclusive, and the listener feels privileged to be in on the five musicians’ private session.

Confidence positively oozes from 13 Rivers, powerful, intelligent, multi-faceted, beautifully performed and consistently strong. It’s also a ton of fun and a genuine high point in Thompson’s career; a record that should be chewed on and discussed for many years to come.