Albums

Unconventional and conventional was the order of the night with Howe Gelb and Grant Lee Phillips at The Portland Arms. Paul shares the experience with some great photos from Di Holmes.

The Decemberists decision to let the songs progress naturally rather than writing to the clock has produced an astonishing work on their latest album.  Play it often and loud.

Enjoying the recognition of her peers Blackbirds proves Gretchen Peters is ready to take her place amongst the very best of America’s singer songwriters as she shines her light into life’s shadows.

With the great success of The Elizabethan Session those all-star sessions are revived and brought north to Celtic Connections for a final performance at The Mitchell Theatre.

The unscheduled Dreamer’s Circus performance at Celtic Connections was one of the highlights of this year’s festival, a performance that will surely secure their return next year with a more prominent billing.

Drawing on the rich culture of America’s South, the Sons Of Bill transform the often-conflicting strand of Love And Logic into a seamless thread of sonic magic.

Nansemond is Nathan Bowles boldest sonic outing yet, sounding fresh whilst still alluding to the sounds of the past. An artist crafting a story, part myth, part memoir.

The Alt brings together three of the most skilful and respected Irish traditional musicians, composers and songwriters – John Doyle, Nuala Kennedy and Eamon O’Leary. It delights from beginning to end.

Paul heads to London’s Green Note to catch Canadian band Fish and Bird, one lasting memory is the beautiful, brilliant music and their joyful enthusiasm for it. Touring UK & Ireland this month.

FaceOmeter’s latest release is a highly memorable collection of fast paced sing-along songs, one that may well be one of the most unique records of 2014.

On the eve of the launch of his first ever solo album FRUK catches up with Ian Carr to talk about the making of the highly original Who He? and his band The Various Artists.

Too, is the second release from Good Luck Mountain. A collection of melodic, tender poetic songs built around the warm vocals of ex-Tandy singer-songwriter Mike Ferrio.