Albums

On the evidence of this recording, The Jellyman’s Daughter, have plotted a careful course and are set fair for the greater horizons that undoubtedly lie ahead. 

One of the greatest strengths of this album is the sheer breadth and diversity of the music on offer, such is the eclectic nature of Fran’s song-writing. For those looking for originality and an alternative to the bland offerings of ‘mainstream’ singer-songwriters, then Wood For The Trees blows in like a breath of fresh air on a balmy spring day.

With its Spaghetti Western overtones and Opry undertones, Ortega blends the dark and the light without stumbling too far into either. Liberty samples long untouched art forms and taps into long untouched feelings. A gem of emotional candour, Liberty is a strong and distinct voice within Ortega’s discography.

Shortwinger is a distinctive, purposeful and powerful record, and represents a typically well-considered new chapter in the artistic development of its three participants, all on top form and working brilliantly together in sparky and harmonious consort.

On his 11th album, Michael McDermott’s confidence and talent have finally aligned. Both personally and musically, he’s become the person he was always meant to be. His best yet.

With Songs From The Seasons, Joshua Burnell delivers a collection of assured, dynamic takes on a wide range of folk songs. An album full of loving detail and exceptional musicianship, an album of genuine ambition, scope and variety.

The Poozies new album ‘Punch’ is the first to feature new recruits Tia Files and Sarah McFadyen. Like the title, the album possesses an underlying sense of drive and energy, of vim, verve and sheer pizzaz.

This is a sheer pleasure to those who cherish Tuli Kupferberg. It’s a grand salute to a man who, with The Fugs, exorcised The Pentagon in 1968 (and caused it to levitate – true story).

The Magic Numbers return following a four-year hiatus with the release of Outsiders. “You ain’t got that magic anymore”, sings Romeo. Don’t believe a word of it.

Gretchen Peters has reacted to the adoring reception of Blackbirds by writing an even better album in Dancing with the Beast. This is assured, highly impressive work from all involved.

The range of musical genres covered, along with the technical prowess of the playing results in an album that is constantly riveting and fits a lot of beautiful music from six years’ of recording sessions, into thirty-nine minutes, without the suggestion of a seam. Highly recommended.

While certainly being the most challenging of Ryley Walker’s albums so far, with music this heady and contemporary blending to make something so cohesive and exciting, Ryley’s ‘Southside Chicago’ album is also arguably his best yet.