Albums

Good Day Señor shows Conor O’Sullivan to be a songwriter and arranger of formidable talent. This accomplished debut is likely to be only the beginning of a highly promising solo phase in his career.

The Unthanks’ Scala performance highlights their uncanny ability to challenge preconceptions and continually drive back the boundaries of the traditional folk music genre, exploring deep into its jazzy, orchestral and progressive corners. Here’s to many more decades of unpredictable awesomeness.

James Hoffman, originally from Portland, Oregon, now based on Ontario, releases ‘Fault Lines’, an elegant album dealing with themes of loss from which can come positive personal growth. An elegant album that will suck you in.

Grass-Tops Recording re-issue Robbie Basho’s ‘Rainbow Thunder’ – ‘a collection of songs expressing the feelings and textures of the West in its Prime, and of the Native American Peoples who lived there.’

German based band Fleadh spread their wings with a UK release. With distinctive songs that echo the approach of Irish contemporary song writers and arrangements that provide a more solid link to the Irish tradition, it’s easy to see why they enjoy such popularity in Germany. The same is sure to follow in the UK.

Neko Case brings her powerful stage presence to Union Chapel with a voice that barely needs amplification. Now entering the fourth act of her career, Case has emerged as a lyrical force of nature and whatever may come next, her greatness is assured.

A body of work that stands as a testament to the powers one of the most underrated singers to come out of the British folk scene, and if there is any justice it will attract a whole new generation of admirers.

Jake Aaron’s self-titled debut adopts a speak-sing delivery whilst accompanying himself on acoustic classical guitar an instrument he is more than adept at as he demonstrates on the one instrumental.

Dublin singer-songwriter Marc Carroll has consistently received good reviews and the praise of his contemporaries without ever making the big breakout he deserves. … this is another fine addition to his outstanding catalogue.

The latest offering from the Battlefield Band features 12 Scottish and Irish guest musicians, packed with great music and enough background information to satisfy your needs. A wonderful album that explores some of the roots and expressions of the shared tradition of Scotland and Ireland.

This year’s MG Alba Scots Trad Music Awards at The Caird Hall in Dundee proved yet again it was the event of the year on the Scottish music calendar and we were fortunate enough to be there for it all!

Gordie MacKeeman and His Rhythm Boys who hail from Prince Edward Island unleash their latest album ‘Laugh, Dance & Sing’ to be followed by an appearance at Celtic Connections and UK tour in February.