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Over the course of three studio albums, Merry Hell has grown into a mighty eight-piece outfit that can take on any and all-comers at their own game and emerge victorious on all counts. Bloodlines is no exception which makes them prime contenders for the accolade of the nation’s premier folk-rock band at the moment. Read our review and watch their new title-track video.

Beoga’s new album will undoubtedly be popular with their existing fan base, but their maturing approach to composition and arrangement will also appeal to a wider audience, one that may be new to what Beoga offer, but are sure to be instantly enchanted by this absolute charmer of an album.

Jon Boden compiles The Ultimate Guide To English Folk, a lavish two-disc primer designed to appeal to experienced folkies and newbies alike. It is not the first such collection, but it is probably the most wide-ranging, lovingly compiled and inventively sequenced. One of the most important messages to take from this compilation is that while folk music in England is something of an extended family, it is by no means …


Cycle is without doubt, an album stuffed full of formidable singing and excellent musicianship. But more than this, it is an album that has something to say about today’s world and is aware of its place in history. Lady Maisery are unafraid to challenge preconceptions about folk music but are aware of its cultural significance and its historical imperative. This album proves that they are worthy custodians and spirited agitators.

In Widdershins, Highland airs, jigs, and reels are treated to a Nordic twist and the rebellious tendencies of both players are given free rein to delightful effect. It is an astounding album that deserves wide exposure, and a work for which Sarah-Jane Summers and Juhani Silvola should be resoundingly praised. Rarely is music such an overwhelming joy.

Read our in-depth interview with Jim Moray as he talks about his past challenges and new album ‘Upcetera’… “Throughout our conversation, he repeatedly makes it clear that in his own mind, his previous career as a solo artist is now closed. ‘Upcetera’ is something different; a fresh start…a ‘New Chapter.’”

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.

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.

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.

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.

The term ‘Singer-songwriter’ barely scratches the surface of Ruth Theodore’s music, quirky would be an understatement – beyond the considerable instant appeal that Cactacus wields, there’s a wealth of poetry, satire and pure, natural artistry. Cactacus is a wonderful, captivating album.

Moray is a performer of consummate talent, a musician who plays a whole range of instruments on this album, and a singer of rare emotional depth. That he manages to do all this while forging a bright new path for folk music is admirable. That he has done so over six albums and still seems to be hitting his peak while never doing the same thing twice is remarkable.

Featuring co-writes with the likes of Gretchen Peters and Mary Gauthier, The Emigrant is a magnificent album and a substantial addition to the Irish emigrant canon that fully confirms Glover as one of the finest in the Americana genre.

Take the time to learn about the beautiful sycamore seed sculpture, created for the album cover by Cornish artist Billy Wynter, and you’ll find the embodiment of what Teyr represent. Teyr make folk music rooted firmly in the future, that future may indeed be Far From The Tree, but then, nothing grows where nothing’s been.

After a three-year hiatus, Heidi Talbot steps back into the light with her fifth solo album. It’s an album that sees her re-kindle familiar musical friendships, forge new productive collaborations and develop her own serene and assured songwriting.

Combining a mix of original compositions and their arrangements of traditional music and song, NEWiD is as fine a showcase as you’ll find of their unique vision of “Celtic music for the 21st century” and is sure to become a firm favourite of long-term fans and newcomers alike.

Any chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Apple Of My Eye are happily lacking in any such weak links, and as a result, they have produced one of the most exciting folk albums of the year so far.

Read our Artist of the Month interview with Jon Boden whose debut solo album ‘Painted Lady’ get’s a special 10th Anniversary re-issue this month via Navigator Records. Plus watch his new video for ‘Get A Little Something’.