Albums

A mix of high-energy fiddle-driven along by expressive and imaginative piano; compelling songs with perfectly executed, intricate vocals and a level of musicianship that is an affirmation of the collective skill these four highly accomplished musicians.

Wandering Heart is an understated affair that occasionally leaps for the stars, perhaps an apt metaphor for Brooke’s vocals. It’s an intricate, lovingly crafted album that showcases a singer/songwriter on top of her game.

Regardless of the origin and its literary references, the album slips very comfortably into Vega’s other work and, if it prompts listeners to dig out one of McCullers’ books, then all the more power to it too.

Kate Rusby demonstrates on her 14th studio album that her artistry is constantly evolving. Avoiding the snares of the predictable while springing a few surprises, the expansive musical backdrops on the disc are full of interesting detail, both refreshing and stimulating: not an easy trick to pull off. One that will appeal to existing and new fans alike.

EAST, is Justin’s seventh and, emotionally, most significant album to date. It is a transitional release born of personal change that permeates the lyrics and overall mood of the record – a calmer, mellower and more organic vibe than any of his previous releases.

Flying at Night is Steve Forbert’s seventeenth studio album since making his debut in 1978. It was recorded in collaboration with his longtime collaborator, multi-instrumentalist Anthony Crawford. Don’t miss his UK tour this month.

Tree is a swift follow-up to Anna Elizabeth Laube’s eponymous 2015 folk-pop debut which finds her reflecting on letting go, putting down roots and connecting with mother nature.

The eloquence of both George Monbiot and Ewan McLennan in raising these issues says far more than any music critic can. Breaking the Spell of Loneliness doesn’t merely tackle the issues raised, it offers solutions, it offers hope. It’s a moving, thought-provoking work that has relevance for all of us.

Set in the beautiful scenery of the Purbeck Hills, Purbeck Valley Folk Festival pulled off another great year with a superb line-up including Eliza Carthy and the Wayward Band, The Goat Roper Rodeo Band, Rory McLeod, Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman, Villagers, Boo Hewerdine and more.

Whilst attending to his other creative outlets like a plate spinner, Never More Together is the second solo album proper from Oliver Swain, one of the most respected, hardworking and brilliant roots musicians in Canada.

Canadian twins Lucas and Madeleine Roger make their debut as Roger Roger on Fairweather, an album of harmony-drenched folk-roots which reached the No. 1 spot on Canada’s National Folk/Roots/Blues chart.

Steeped in the folk traditions of Wales yet fully attuned to the present day, Ruins/Adfeilion is an absorbing, thoughtful and ultimately forward-looking collection of songs which perfectly showcase Gareth’s flawless musicianship and creative vision.