Albums

For anyone with even a passing interest in the music of John Renbourn, The Attic Tapes is an essential and absorbing collection which offers a remarkable insight into the roots of one of Britain’s greatest guitarists and songwriters.

The ability to turn a stream of mundane details into something inexplicably heartbreaking, with little but a softly strummed guitar as an accompaniment. This is Hayman’s gift – the ability to elevate the quotidian to heights that are almost sacred.

Glen Hansard’s second solo album finds him in reflective mood, the songs veined with themes of grace under pressure and of support and comfort for the lost.

Performing at London’s Royal Festival Hall Steve Earle, with heartbreak, addiction, politics and go-go boots shows, he’s got the blues aplenty… Long may he have them.

We pay a visit to April Verch’s latest album ‘The Newpart’, an album that rewards constant replay, as she heads for the UK shores for a set of November tour dates.

With their abundant enthusiasm, a mutual empathy bordering on instinct and, above all, a collective passion for the music they play; it’s as a single, cohesive unit that the Andy May Trio shines brightest and About Time is the superb result.

With The Land of Time, Pete Morton has created a fine collection of contemporary folk songs which aren’t afraid to face up to some of the more pressing issues of our time with wit, intelligence and nuance. These are rare qualities too often missing from much music today.

Colours Simple is the latest offering from UK Americana outfit Case Hardin on which frontman and writer Pete Gow shines through as one of our finest songwriters.

Phil Riley’s may be returning to music later than planned but his latest offering ‘Dragon Tails’ is his his strongest release yet, showcasing his warm vocals and accomplished songwriting skills.

Five years ago Damien O’Kane released his debut solo ‘Summer Hill’. ‘Areas of High Traffic’ is both an extraordinary and brilliant follow-up from an immensely talented musician and singer.

To Run The Easting Down is both beautiful and immersive. The fact that it was made by two artists on opposite sides of the Atlantic is testament to the power of collaboration, and a sign that such collaboration has a bright future.

Stick in the Wheel are heading out on the road for a series of dates, kicking off this evening in Bristol. Watch this new live video of them performing the Ewan MacColl song ‘Champion’ live at London’s Green Note.