Albums

A Rookery hail from Calder Valley, West Yorkshire. Their new EP: Nabby Nook has a breadth of influences ranging from dark folk rock with a gothic twist to more subtle swaying charms reminiscent of early psych-folk.

Tess’s debut album Magpie, has the making of a classic, and it grows on you still further after each listen. A beautiful and lovingly crafted album from a humble soul. Fans of Alexi Murdoch and Ray lamontagne will love it!

Conor Oberst has, after a three year break, decided to resurrect Bright Eyes for what is likely to be the finale album of this moniker. The People’s Key will be sending Bright Eyes out with a bang if that is the case. Despite some shallow press reviews, I think this is an exceptional album!

Ewan Robertson, part-time fire fighter and guitarist/vocalist with rising Scottish folk band Breabach, has delivered a debut solo album which demonstrates his fine playing and eclectic mix of musical interests.

Smart Flesh is The Low Anthem’s much anticipated new album release and our Album of the Week. Ever since they took up occupancy in an old dis-used pasta sauce factory to record this album the anticipation has grown with every mention, video or photograph they have released.

CW Stoneking and band are looking a little more dapper than usual with immaculately Bryllcremed hair and striped boating blazers. In truth he’s more of a preacher than a performer but certainly entirely authentic in his recreation of the downtrodden hobo blues from almost a century ago.

Tony Reidy’s latest release, Hayshed Days, shines even brighter than his last. He is again in the company of fellow musician Seamie O’Dowd creating a contemporary sounding album through which he weaves his memories. Ten out of Ten!

On All this Longing, Reg Meuross brings to life the commonplace and the extraordinary in his poignant tales whose level of detail I’m always amazed by. The image of a typewritter on the album is a perfect symbol of his masterful storytelling.

The Long Hard Road is Tom McElvogue’s debut album and our album of the week! Tom’s attention to detail and perfectionism has resulted in a perfectly recorded legacy for the future which will finally introduce him to Irish music lovers worldwide!

Emily Smith’s latest album release, Traiveller’s Joy, continues to mark the ascent of this young Scottish artist on the UK folk scene. The album’s focus is on the rich song heritage left by the Scottish travelling community. Her refreshing re-interpretations as well as new self-penned songs make this a milestone album in her singing career.

At 6’5 Justin Townes Earle is physically as big as his talent and hype hint at. His attitude is brash Nashville no messing but delivered with a hint of New York City suave. It’s impossible not to listen and to find yourself forming little relationships with the protagonists of the pieces.

There is no doubt that The Outside Track’s latest release has proven that they are not only fine exponents of their musical traditions but that they are fine musicians who can enthuse and bring those traditions to a wider audience!