Of Life and Hearts in the Balance
The earth and the hearts of people living on it are in the balance in the potent songs on IAN TYSON's memorable new album, CARNERO VAQUERO. It's a Tyson classic.
Spotlight Album
Indomitable
A Civil Rights Movement leader and powerful gospel singer, FANNIE LOU HAMER'S authenticity comes through most clearly on SONGS MY MOTHER TAUGHT ME.
Art Songs, Folk Texts
In praise of POPULAIRES, a fascinating exploration of art songs with folk texts, by French Algerian soprano AMEL BRAHIM-DJELLOUL and pianist Nicolas Jouve, Reviewed by ROBERT HUGILL of Planet Hugill.
The Eternal Ache in Full, Glorious Flower
The timelessness of CARTER FAMILY songs is underscored in DON'T FORGET ME LITTLE DARLING, an homage by ANTIQUE PERSUASION, a trio of roots veterans that has made one of 2015's finest albums.
No, No Mortal Man This
Finally, a solo album from the legendary lead singer of the Persuasions, JERRY LAWSON. Expertly produced by ERIC BRACE, JUST A MORTAL MAN is a powerful showcase moment for one of the greatest soul singers of all time.
It Starts With The Heart
Another triumph for MARK O'CONNOR, but this time he's sharing the spotlight with his ferociously talented new bride, MAGGIE O'CONNOR, on DUO.
Wondrous Incandescence
Two folk veterans are at the top of their games: TOM PAXTON on his new REDEMPTION ROAD album and MICKEY CLARK (with his band THE BLUE NORTHER) on REASONS & RHYMES.
It Might As Well Be Spring
Although it was not be design, noted jazz drummer-arranger-composer JERRY KALAF seems to have found the essence of Springtime on his pastoral new album, WELCOME TO EARTH
Stirring the Heart, Captivating the Mind
The young order of contemplative nuns based in Missouri and known as BENEDICTINES OF MARY, QUEEN OF APOSTLES stir the heart and captivate the mind on EASTER AT EPHESUS.
Love Remembered, In the Heart and On the Front Lines
In a selection of songs by British composers of the first 50 years of the 20th Century,mezzo-soprano KATHRYN RUDGE, with pianist JAMES BAILLIEU, uncover some lost gems and revitalize familiar ones.