28th December 2013 - Final album review of this year is of an album that is appropriate to send the year out on a high. It's the brilliant Ashleigh Flyn with 'A Million Stars,' an album that propels her into the same league as Lucinda, Nanci, Emmylou and
Rosanne!
20th December 2013 - I've uploaded the review of another album that will be in my full best of the year list when I publish it in a week or two and it will be very near the top. It's the extraordinary new release from The Harmed Brothers and is called 'Better days.' I thought their previous effort was very good but this leaves it in the shade! Great album!
12th December 2013 - Due to various circumstances it is not possible to keep to the level of review uploads that i've managed recently, a state of affairs that is likely to persist for some time yet. However today i've added a review of the tremendous new recording by Eric Strickland and the B Sides entitled 'I'm Bad For You.' Another case of country music as it should be played but with added interest!
4th December 2013 - I've uploaded the first c.d review of December and what a cracker it is! It's called 'Stay True' and is by Danny and the Champions of the World, one of the best British roots bands ever! Everyone I know is raving about this recording so obviously you will be putting it on your Christmas list, always assuming you don't already own a copy.
29th November 2013 - First post house move c.d review is the extraordinarily talented Israel Nash Gripka's new album 'Israel Nash's Rain Plan' I doubt that it's any exaggeration to say that this career defining recording will figure in many people's albums of the year list and in quite a few cases will be number one!!
24th November 2013 - First review for a week is the excellent second album by British roots band Wooden Horse. The album is called 'This Kind Of Trouble' and contains eight of their terrific orignal songs as well as covers of three classics!
17th November 2013 - A new review of the tremendous, soon to be released, album by The Jamie Freeman Agreement has been added to the November c.d reviews page. It is called '100 Miles From Town' and whilst the 'tap root' is in country music there is a broad diversity to this excellent recordingthat will be released on the 25th November.
13th November 2013 - I've added a review of Tim Grimm's terrific new album, 'The Turning Point' to this months c.d reviews page. If you like artists such as Prine, Townes, etc i'm pretty sure you will love this!
9th November 2013 - A review of 'This Old Town,' the new album by Horseshoes & hand Grenades has been added to the November c.d reviews page. The listener can be forgiven for thinking the band are a dozen albums into a long career rather than this actually being only their second recording, such is their virtuosic quality!
5th November 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'Wild Moon' the incredible new album by
J.D. Wilkes & the Dirt Daubers to the November c.d reviews page.
1st November 2013 - First review of the month is of a tremendous new album by The Barnyard Stompers! It is called 'Outlaws With Chainsaws' and contains everything from 'classic country' to eerie threatening 'backwoods' stomps from a talented duo who are in pretty much their own unique genre!
29th October 2013 - Just added a review of the terrific new album by Australian alt. country band Michael Meeking and the Lost Souls. The album is called 'Ride On' and is up there with the best of the U.S. in their genre!
26th October 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'Big Empty' the tremendous new album by The Coloradas to the October c.d reviews page.
22nd October 2013 - A review of 'Too Close To Here' the debut album by the extraordinarily talented Benjamin Folke Thomas has been added to the October c.d reviews page.
18th October 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the tremendous new album by The Piedmont Brothers Band. It is called 'Back To The Country' and contains more peerless classic 'country rock' and folk music, beautifully written, sung and played and often accompanied by some of the greats of the genre!
14th October 2013 - I get sent a lot of press releases and have never really done much about them, but on reflection perhaps should have done, certainly those that I find interesting. With that in mind i've decided to set up a 'Press Release' page. It can be found on the 'Home' page drop down menu and will be added to as more press releases of interest are received and as time allows. I've just added the first one which coincidentally relates to one of our tremendous local Brighton bands, The Mountain Firework Company. Unbelievably, i've never seen them live but hope to remedy that situation sooner rather than later and i'll be playing a couple of tracks from their recent album 'The Lonesome Losing Blues' on Worthing Sunshine Radio's American Roots show tomorrow night.
A great band who seem to be starting to get a lot of attention and justifiably so.
http://www.themountainfireworkcompany.com/
13th October 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'The Color Of Rust,' the new album by the brilliant Carolina Still, a
talented four piece band who play raw 'old timey' music for the 21st century!
8th October 2013 - A review of the tremendous new album by husband and wife duo My Darling Clementine has been added to the October c.d reviews page. It's called 'The Reconciliation?' and consists of some terrific duets that Tammy and George would have been proud of, but always with an edge rather than an overdose of saccharine!
5th October 2013 - I've uploaded a review of a truly extraordinary album! It's 'Death On The Mountain' the tremendous new recording by Canadian 'hillbillies' Ol' Savannah. It includes vocals that have to be heard to be believed, some brilliantly written songs and great playing of their acoustic instruments. Another sure fire contender for 'Album of the year!'
1st October 2013 - First album to be reviewed in October is a real belter! It's called 'It Can Be Done' and is by Kendl Winter and the Summer Gold. Kendl wrote all of the songs on the album, has a lovely quirky vocal style and is a genuine virtuoso on her banjo! Gorgeous album!
28th September 2013 - I've added a review of the brilliant new Austin Lucas album to the September c.d reviews page. It's called 'Stay Reckless' and contains eleven of his self penned songs that are a template for 'country music as it should be played!' Tremendous album!
24th September 2013 - A review of the extraordinary new album by the Crow Quill Night Owls has been uploaded today. It's called 'Wrap your troubles in dreams' and consists of a raw blend of old timey, blues, vaudeville, jazz, all blended into an addictive soundscape! Brilliant album!
21st September 2013 - Today i've uploaded a review of yet another contender for 'Album of the year.' It's called 'Northern rock' and is the second hugely impressive recording by the talented Eastbound Jesus, a band that expertly blends old timey, bluegrass and much more into a pretty much unique stew!
17th September 2013 - I've added a review of an extraordinary new album by Sheesham, Lotus & 'Son. It's called '1929' and contains a mix of music that harks back many decades, all played and sung with a quite unique authenticity by this talented trio.
13th September 2013 - A review of the incredible new album by John Moreland, 'In The Throes' has been added to the September 2013 c.d reviews page. There have been half a dozen or so truly extraordinary album released in 2013. This is one of them!
10th September 2013 - A review of the beautiful new recording by Underhill Rose has been uploaded. It's called 'Something Real' and contains some terrific songs, beautifully sung and played by this hugely talented trio.
7th September 2013 - I've uploaded a review of Red Tail Ring's 'The Heart's Swift Foot,' a beautiful album of 'American folk music' by a tremendously talented duo.
3rd September 2013 - First album review of the month is the tremendous new recording by Scott Cook. It's called 'One more time around' and contains ten beautifully sparse melodic songs, some of which are quite reflective and others, thought provoking.
31st August 2013 - Last album review of the month is of a terrific and diverse recording of roots music from Jack Marks. It's called 'Blues like these' and not only contains blues music but also a blend of folksy country with a little r 'n' b. In fact, something for everyone!
26th August 2013 - A review of a tremendous album that is due for release tomorrow has been uploaded to the August c.d reviews page. It's called 'Not Before Time' and is by the excellent Foghorn Leghorn a talented London based band who cover most of the acoustic American Roots bases.
23rd August 2013 - I've added a review of the tremendous new album by Dennis Ellsworth. It's called 'Dusk Dreams' and is chock full of beautiful reflective, often thought provoking songs.
19th August 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the terrific new album by Michael & the Lonesome Playboys. It is called 'Bottle Cap Sky' and contains fifteen of Michael Ubaldini's beautifully written songs that range from rock 'n' roll to country and on to the blues. Tremendous album of great diversity.
15th August 2013 - A review of one of the two or three best albums so far this year has been added to the August c.d reviews page. It is the hugely talented Tillers new recording 'Hand On The Plow' and contains all their own original songs that are a blend of hillbilly/blues/folk/a little punk attitude and lots of originality on a truly great album!
12th August 2013 - I've uploaded a review of an album that could well be album of the the year 2013 and probably one of the albums of the decade! It is called 'Two Billion Acres Of Salt' and is by Hezekiah Goode. This is his 'difficult second album,' but it doesn't show! A truly great album of 'real country music!'
8th August 2013 - A review of the wonderful new album 'Old Fashioned Gal,' by the hugely talented, Austin Tx based trio, The Carper Family has been added to the August c.d reviews page.
5th August 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'The Long Haul' a tremendous new album of 'alt. country' by the talented Scottish band, The Wynntown Marshalls. It contains ten great atmospheric songs, all beautifully sung and played.
1st August 2013 - First c.d review of the month is a very good and stylistically varied album 'Yes Please' by talented Canadian band The Bills
29th July 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'Cavalcade,' the excellent new album by Jeffrey Foucault & Cold Satellite to the July c.d reviews page.
20th July 2013 - A review of the brilliant 'What's that hat for,' the new album by Hillfolk Noir has been added to the July c.d reviews page. To my mind it's their best yet, in a career of high points! Give yourself a treat and purchase a copy.
18th July 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the tremendous new album by Jeff Finlin. The title is 'My Moby Dick' and it contains some of Jeff's best songs yet on an album that consistently reveals further nuances with each listening session.
13th July 2013 - A review of the brilliant new album by Sturgill Simpson has been added to the July c.d reviews page. It is called 'High Top Mountain' and is quite literally one of the best 'country' albums of the century so far! Great songs, terrific vocals and great playing equals an album that everyone should have in their collection.
11th July 2013 - I've just uploaded a review of the new Leeroy Stagger album, 'Truth be sold,' an album that thanks to it's power and diversity will be on many year end 'best of' lists. He and his band were one of the highlights of last weekends Maverick Festival and if you live in south east England there is a further treat in wait for you at Brightons 'Prince Albert' pub on Tuesday 16th July where they will be playing what should be one of the gigs of the year! If by some freak chance that is not enough, the support will be Dennis Ellsworth, another artist who played a hugely impressive set at the Maverick festival. Can't wait!
8th July 2013 - After a brilliant weekend at the Maverick festival it's back to the real world and a new review, added today, of the brilliant new album 'Ghosts and Compromise' by Waiting For Henry. It's an album that despite having finished the review I just can't stop playing! If ever a term 'classic alt. country' applied it is to this album and hugely talented trio of musicians. Everything about the album is superb so enhance these hot sunny days further by treating yourself to a copy of this great album that will inevitably figure in my best of year list!
4th July 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the incredible new album by Chastity Brown. It's called 'Back Road Highways' and is a mix of deep delta blues, soul, gospel, jazz and much more. Ultimately will be classed as a blues album and will feature in many year, or decade, end lists as a truly great album!
2nd July 2013 - As we're half way through the year I decided to check the number of hits on www.americanrootsuk.com and was amazed to see that by mid June we had gone past 100,000 for this calender year. Not many when compared to some sites, but it feels like a hell of a lot to this one man band! To everyone that uses the site, thanks for your support, it really does mean a lot to someone who only started the site as a hobby! I was anticipating it would take up just a few hours a week and keep some friends informed about gigs and c.ds but now it seems to have taken over much of my life! Thanks again.
1st July 2013 - First album review for this month is the good time music of 'The Revelers' self titled album. Some covers, some of their own originals but all blended into an excellent roots music stew!
29th June 2013 - The last c.d review of this month is the tremendous new Charlie Parr album 'Barnswallow.' Ten songs, eight written by Charlie, that are an evocative blend of old time 'hillbilly' and blues, in a nutshell, some great folk music!
27th June 2013 - A review of the brilliant self titled debut album by 'Rattleshack' has been added to the June c.d reviews page. I had to read about them before i could believe they are actually British and not an old time 'hillbilly' band. This is real fiery punked up 'hillbilly' music brilliantly blended with tremendous British folk music. Buy the album, you won't regret it!
24th June 2013 - I've added a review of the gorgeous 'Driving toward the sun' by Susan James to the June c.d reviews page.
22nd June 2013 - A review of the terrific new Desolation Angels (Detroit) album 'Hell or Highwater' has beed added to the June c.d reviews page. (The addition of 'Detroit' is to avoid confusion with the heavy metal band of the same name.)
20th June 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'Darlingford' the gorgeous new album by ex "Wailin' Jenny," Cara Luft to the June c.d. reviews page . Enhance your life by buying a copy of this beautiful open hearted series of songs!
17th June 2013 - After four albums with top Canadian roots band 'The Gruff,' Jenny Ritter has struck out on her own with the beautiful debut album 'Bright Mainland.' There are lovely melodic songs, excellent playing and Jenny's gorgeous vocals on a series of beautifully spacy 'Canadian country' songs. A review has been added to the June c.d reviews page.
15th June 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'Cold Beans & Broken Eggs,' the new album by Sean Burns, to the June c.d reviews page. It features great story songs as well as tremendous vocals and playing on an album of 'real country music' that will certainly feature in my years end 'best of 2013' list!
13th June 2013 - A review of the terrific new country rock album 'Midnight Trains' by British band Red Moon Joe has been added to the June c.d reviews page. It is their first album for more than two decades and the question is, was it worth the wait? You bet it was!
10th June 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the terrific new album entitled 'Introducing the Wagon Tales.' Fairly obviously it is by the Wagon Tales and contains a diverse mix of bluegrass, old timey, folk and much more that is added to the pot to form a pretty much unique stew of great music!
8th June 2013 - A review of the tremendous 'Backenforth, IL.' by Chicago Farmer has been added to the June c.d reviews page. Brilliant album!
6th June 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the truly extraordinary new album by J.P. Whipple. It's called 'Racket' and I honestly didn't think anyone in this modern age was capable of making music this raw and atmospheric anymore but am happy to admit I was wrong. J.P. manages it and with interest!
4th June 2013 - A review of the beautiful new album 'The Living Record' by Christa Couture has been added to the June c.d reviews page.
2nd June 2013 - First c.d review of the month is the brilliant debut album by Corpse Reviver. It's called 'Vol.1: I'll be rested when the roll is called' and is built upon songs from 'Harry Smiths Anthology of American Folk Music.' A hugely talented trio who play the old music without the crackles and pops!
30th May 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'Works and Days,' the brilliant new album by Michael Tarbox to the May c.d reviews page. This is his second solo album following on from the pair he made with his great band The Tarbox Ramblers. The quality never slackens!
27th May 2013 - A review of the tremendous 6 song mini album 'The Miners Rebellion,' by The Miners has been added to the May 2013 c.d reviews page.
25th May 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the soon to be released debut album by Danni Nicholls. All of the tremendous songs were written by Danni and range from americana/alt. country to a distinct jazziness, all beautifully sung and played.
23rd May 2013 - I don't usually review instrumental albums but Glenn Jones new recording 'My garden State' is so good I just had to get something in print about it. Beautiful 'songs' and incredible playing makes it an essential addition to any roots music collection.
20th May 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the excellent new album by Old Man Markley. It's called 'Down Side Up' and contains the bands tremendous original punked up Americana songs and whilst I don't like everything about the recording I do love the album!
18th May 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'To build a fire' the extraordinary and probably career defining new album by Cam Penner. Take my word for it, you really need a copy of this incredible recording that will certainly figure in my best of 2013 list!
16th May 2013 - A review of the incredible 'PBB III' by The Piedmont Brothers Band, an album that is a real throwback to those glorious early days of 'Country rock,' has been added to the May c.d reviews page. It contains a few tremendous covers on which some of the original artists help out, as well as some excellent band originals.
13th May 2013 - I've added a review of the recent album by Vanessa Peters to the May c.d reviews page. It's called 'The burn the truth the lies' and contains some beautifully written stories all sung by one of the most gorgeous expressive voices you could wish to hear.
11th may 2013 - I've finally uploaded a review of what will be a sure fire contender for album of the year 2013. It's 'Up Like The Clouds,' the tremendous debut album by 'old timey' duo, Dubl Handi. (see review for explanation of the name!)
9th May 2013 - Saw the brilliant Woody Pines at the Prince Albert, Brighton last night where they played two stroming sets! I had intended uploading a review of their tremendous new album 'Rabbit's Motel' well before the date of the gig then promptly forgot, so i've now rectified that situation and added it to the May c.d reviews page! I was actually told by two people last night that they had read the review but I think they must have meant the few comments on the April playlist, unless i'm even more confused than usual. Always possible, I suppose!
6th May 2013 - A review of the gorgeous new album by Anders & Kendall entitled 'Wild Chorus' has been added to the May c.d. reviews page. It contains quite mellow sounds with tremendous lead and harmony vocals.
4th May 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the tremendous self titled debut album by 'The Stray Birds' to the May c.d reviews page. They are a hugely talented trio who play some tremendous modern 'old timey' music consisting of their own original songs.
2nd May 2013 - First album review of May is the new release by Phil Lee. It's a tremendous recording entitled 'The fall and further decline of the mighty King of love.' As you ,ight guess from the title, Phil is not a man who takes himself too seriously, although he is a tremendous musician who sits alone in the corner of the roots music field!
29th April 2013 - Final album review of April is of the tremendous new album by Jarrod Dickenson. It's called 'The Lonesome Traveler and is full of thought provoking, melodic songs with excellent vocals and playing.
April 27th 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'In that black sky,' the brilliant new album by Frankenpine. It consists of all their own original songs, excellent playing and singing, with an underlying darkness that can't really be compared to anyone else. Terrific album!
April 2013 - A review of the excellent 'Haymaker,' the new album by Hayward Williams has been added. It contains some highly literate songs, tremendous guitar playing and excellent vocals all mixed together to form an album that with repeated listening sessions gradually reveals even more depth.
20th April 2013 - I've uploaded a review of Annabelle Chvostek's extraordinary new album 'Rise.' Also included is a track from the album and a 15 minute piece of very recent video that includes Annabelle playing acoustically as well as an interview with musician/producer Jame Freeman of Union Music Store record label.
18th April 2013 - A review of the high quality but quirky new album by Kevin Breit has been added to the April c.d reviews page. It is called 'Field Recording' and is actually by 'Kevin Breit & the Upper York Mandolin Orchestra'.
13th April 2013 - I've uploaded a review of an album that I still play constantly. It's the brilliant 'Long Gone Out West Blues' by Pharis & Jason Romero an album that is both modern and an evocation of times long since gone!
Gorgeous album.
11th April 2013 - A review of the tremendous mini album by DH Lawrence and the Vaudeville Skiffle Show, entitled 'Escape this wicked life,' has been uploaded to the April c.d reviews page. Hugely entertaining, high quality music!
8th April 2013 - I've added a review of the tremendous new album by Rebecca Pronsky to the April c.d reviews page. It's called 'Only Daughter' and contains some of the best songs and performances to date by Rebecca and husband Rich Bennett. Country music is never far away, but there is so much more to this exceptional album.
5th April 2013 - Just uploaded the first c.d review of the month. It is Rita Hosking's beautiful new seven song recording entitled 'Little Boats' and is released on Monday 8th April. It is 'real country music' played and sung beautifully and with some tremendous lyrics as well.
28th March 2013 - The final c.d review to be added this month is 'Ghosts' by the extraordinarily talented J.P. Whipple. I thought his previous offering 'Bible Milk' was a tremendous album, but this is even better. A master songwriter with a voice that he manipulates to suit the occasion and a mastery of guitar and banjo that needs to be heard to be believed. Great album!
25th March 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the tremendous new album by Daniel Romano. It's called 'Come Cry With Me' and is an album that contains great songs, beautifully sung and played and anyone claiming to hear both a Hank and Gram influence is not misguided! A brilliant recording!
23rd March 2013 - A review of the gorgeous new album by Thomas Hine, 'Forgive My Future' has been uploaded to the March c.d reviews page. Slow, moody and at times very dark.
21st March 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the incredible new 'old timey' album by Adam Kiesling. It's called 'Unclouded day,' came out last year and had I discovered it at the time would without doubt have been one of my albums of the year!
19th March 2013 - A review of the excellent new album by J.J. Schultz entitled 'Carolina' has been added today.
17th March 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the tremendous new solo album by Jack Klatt. It's called 'Love me lonely' and is just Jack and his guitar on some of his own excellent originals as well as versions of a variety of other songs from various genres.
14th March 2013 - A review of 'Same Sad End' the tremendous new album by Rhubarb Whiskey has been added to the March c.d reviews page. It really is a brilliant roots album that contains an incredible blend of 'punk, country, old timey, a smattering of bluegrass, a little blues, gypsy, even some ‘cowboy’ music!' An all round great album of edgy roots music.
10th March 2013 - I've uploaded a review of '444' the tremendous new album by Free Range Folk. It includes music that blends just about every off shoot of 'country music.' In other words 'Real country music!'
8th March 2013 - A review of the tremendous new album 'Barn Burner' by the Give 'Em Hell Boys' has been added to the March c.d reviews page. If you love bland souless mainstream country music it's probably safer to give this one a miss!!
6th March 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the terrific new album by 'singer songwriter' David Hope. Some great folksy blues with a dash of country makes this an essential album!
2nd March 2013 - First album review of the month is the tremendous new offering by Jimbo Mathus and the Tri-State Coalition titled 'White Buffalo.' Jimbo is a man who never sits still musically, this time coming up with a 'classic country rock' album, but things are never that simple, or defined!
28th February 2012 - Last c.d reviewed this month is a real belter, 'Rough Carpenters' by the Black Twig Pickers. If ever a band defined modern 'old timey' music it is this one with their great 'hillbilly' music without all the crackles and pops!
25th February 2013 - First reveiw of the week is of the gorgeous 'A Killer's Dream,' the new recording by the wonderful Rachel Brooke. Her previous album was 'Down in the barnyard,' this websites album of the year 2011.
23rd February 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'Royal Street' the gorgeous new album by Amanda Pearcy. If you like edgy Texas rooted country music this is definitely for you!
21st February 2013 - A review of the terrific debut album by Rob Heron & the Teapad Orchestra, 'Money Isn't Everything' has been added to the February c.d reviews page along with a piece of video and a song off the album.
18th February 2013 - I've just uploaded a review of the new mini album 'Lilac Sky' by Thea Hopkins. Six unusual but high quality songs, four of which were written by award winning lyricist Thea.
16th February 2013 - A review of the almost career defining 'The bravest birds' by Rob Lutes has been added to the February c.d reviews. It is chock full of virtuosic playing, excellent vocals and some tremendous writing.
14th February 2013 - I've uploaded a c.d review of the tremendous new album by Kevin Bowe & the Okemah Prophets. It's called 'Natchez Trace' and it's sixteen tracks cover a wide range of musical styles, all under the 'roots' umbrella.
11th February 2013 - I thought i'd get the week off to a flying start by uploading a review of the new album by Ben Bedford. It's the excellent 'What we lost,' his third album of tremendous songs, many rooted in historical fact and all beautifully sung and played.
9th February 2013 - A review of the excellent new album 'God bless these crooked little songs' by J Shogren & Shanghai'd has been added to the February c.d reviews page.
6th February 2012 - I've uploaded a review of the gorgeous debut album 'Not waving but drowning' by Brightons own Self Help Group. If you love harmony driven music you will not find better than this beautiful recording. It's no coincidence that it will also be one of two albums of the week on my Seasidehr 'American Roots' programme tonight!
4th February 2013 - Due to a fairly comprehensive vote I'm dropping the star system for album ratings. It could only ever be an approximation anyway, but the problem is that it was often a score that could change with virtually every listening session. It might come back if it is deemed useful, so we'll see how it goes!
I felt it appropriate to make a 5***** album the last to receive a score so i've uploaded a (lengthy!) review of the tremendous 'Hello Cold Goodbye Sun' by the Southern Tenant Folk Union.
1st February 2013 - First c.d review of the month is the tremendous debut by the Cameron Brothers Band. It's called 'Ratios' and contains some beautiful Canadian country and alt. country roots music, all beautifully played and sung with both male and female vocals.
31st January 2013 - Final c.d review of the month is a real belter of an album. It's the gorgeous 'Cigarettes & Truckstops' by the hugely talented 'alt. country' singer songwriter Lindi Ortega. As has become usual i've added a song from the album and a piece of video too!
26th January 2013 - Just uploaded a review of the brilliant new album by The Earl Brothers. It's called 'Outlaw Hillbilly' and rarely was an album more appropriately titled, containing as it does some dark hillbilly music that incorporates a little bluegrass and the brilliant playing and singing of some tremendous songs! Also added a song from the album and a piece of video.
24th January 2013 - A new review of the excellent new alt. country album by Mudgrass has been added. This excellent trio contains two talented singer songwriters who have produced some great music on 'Just That Way,' and promise much for the future as well as the here and now!
20th January 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the Leon Hunt N-Tet's new album 'Farewell Blues.' It is subtitled 'Remembering Earl Scruggs' which should give some idea of the musical content from one of the best Bluegrass bands around, and they're British!
17th January 2013 - A review of Old Man Luedecke's tremendous recent album 'Tender is the night' has been added, along with a song from the album and a piece of youtube video!
14th January 2013 - I've added a review of a gorgeous debut album by Vera Van Heeringen. It's called 'Standing Tall' and contains some lovely folksy country songs and instrumentals, all recorded in the U.S by this talented Dutch lady, who is highly rated by acoustic music legend Tim O' Brien!
11th January 2013 - After waging war against a particularly nasty computer virus we've finally got back on line and have uploaded a review of the excellent new album by The Bean Pickers Union called 'Better the Devil.' It's a beautifully conceived recording of mainly dark songs that repay repeated listening sessions.
3rd January 2013 - First review of the new year is the tremendous alt. country album, 'Science of Flight' by the Dirty River Boys. They have talent to burn and a considerable degree of individuality!
6th January 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the beautiful debut album by The Locust Honey String Band. It's called 'He Ain't No Good' and contains gorgeous versions of some classic songs, all beautifully performed, along with one of their own originals.
I'm hoping to make one or two additions to future reviews, (starting with this one) by adding an audio track from the album and some video, to hopefully add a little more colour and a sample of what you will hear when you purchase the album!
20th December 2013 - I've uploaded the review of another album that will be in my full best of the year list when I publish it in a week or two and it will be very near the top. It's the extraordinary new release from The Harmed Brothers and is called 'Better days.' I thought their previous effort was very good but this leaves it in the shade! Great album!
12th December 2013 - Due to various circumstances it is not possible to keep to the level of review uploads that i've managed recently, a state of affairs that is likely to persist for some time yet. However today i've added a review of the tremendous new recording by Eric Strickland and the B Sides entitled 'I'm Bad For You.' Another case of country music as it should be played but with added interest!
4th December 2013 - I've uploaded the first c.d review of December and what a cracker it is! It's called 'Stay True' and is by Danny and the Champions of the World, one of the best British roots bands ever! Everyone I know is raving about this recording so obviously you will be putting it on your Christmas list, always assuming you don't already own a copy.
29th November 2013 - First post house move c.d review is the extraordinarily talented Israel Nash Gripka's new album 'Israel Nash's Rain Plan' I doubt that it's any exaggeration to say that this career defining recording will figure in many people's albums of the year list and in quite a few cases will be number one!!
24th November 2013 - First review for a week is the excellent second album by British roots band Wooden Horse. The album is called 'This Kind Of Trouble' and contains eight of their terrific orignal songs as well as covers of three classics!
17th November 2013 - A new review of the tremendous, soon to be released, album by The Jamie Freeman Agreement has been added to the November c.d reviews page. It is called '100 Miles From Town' and whilst the 'tap root' is in country music there is a broad diversity to this excellent recordingthat will be released on the 25th November.
13th November 2013 - I've added a review of Tim Grimm's terrific new album, 'The Turning Point' to this months c.d reviews page. If you like artists such as Prine, Townes, etc i'm pretty sure you will love this!
9th November 2013 - A review of 'This Old Town,' the new album by Horseshoes & hand Grenades has been added to the November c.d reviews page. The listener can be forgiven for thinking the band are a dozen albums into a long career rather than this actually being only their second recording, such is their virtuosic quality!
5th November 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'Wild Moon' the incredible new album by
J.D. Wilkes & the Dirt Daubers to the November c.d reviews page.
1st November 2013 - First review of the month is of a tremendous new album by The Barnyard Stompers! It is called 'Outlaws With Chainsaws' and contains everything from 'classic country' to eerie threatening 'backwoods' stomps from a talented duo who are in pretty much their own unique genre!
29th October 2013 - Just added a review of the terrific new album by Australian alt. country band Michael Meeking and the Lost Souls. The album is called 'Ride On' and is up there with the best of the U.S. in their genre!
26th October 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'Big Empty' the tremendous new album by The Coloradas to the October c.d reviews page.
22nd October 2013 - A review of 'Too Close To Here' the debut album by the extraordinarily talented Benjamin Folke Thomas has been added to the October c.d reviews page.
18th October 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the tremendous new album by The Piedmont Brothers Band. It is called 'Back To The Country' and contains more peerless classic 'country rock' and folk music, beautifully written, sung and played and often accompanied by some of the greats of the genre!
14th October 2013 - I get sent a lot of press releases and have never really done much about them, but on reflection perhaps should have done, certainly those that I find interesting. With that in mind i've decided to set up a 'Press Release' page. It can be found on the 'Home' page drop down menu and will be added to as more press releases of interest are received and as time allows. I've just added the first one which coincidentally relates to one of our tremendous local Brighton bands, The Mountain Firework Company. Unbelievably, i've never seen them live but hope to remedy that situation sooner rather than later and i'll be playing a couple of tracks from their recent album 'The Lonesome Losing Blues' on Worthing Sunshine Radio's American Roots show tomorrow night.
A great band who seem to be starting to get a lot of attention and justifiably so.
http://www.themountainfireworkcompany.com/
13th October 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'The Color Of Rust,' the new album by the brilliant Carolina Still, a
talented four piece band who play raw 'old timey' music for the 21st century!
8th October 2013 - A review of the tremendous new album by husband and wife duo My Darling Clementine has been added to the October c.d reviews page. It's called 'The Reconciliation?' and consists of some terrific duets that Tammy and George would have been proud of, but always with an edge rather than an overdose of saccharine!
5th October 2013 - I've uploaded a review of a truly extraordinary album! It's 'Death On The Mountain' the tremendous new recording by Canadian 'hillbillies' Ol' Savannah. It includes vocals that have to be heard to be believed, some brilliantly written songs and great playing of their acoustic instruments. Another sure fire contender for 'Album of the year!'
1st October 2013 - First album to be reviewed in October is a real belter! It's called 'It Can Be Done' and is by Kendl Winter and the Summer Gold. Kendl wrote all of the songs on the album, has a lovely quirky vocal style and is a genuine virtuoso on her banjo! Gorgeous album!
28th September 2013 - I've added a review of the brilliant new Austin Lucas album to the September c.d reviews page. It's called 'Stay Reckless' and contains eleven of his self penned songs that are a template for 'country music as it should be played!' Tremendous album!
24th September 2013 - A review of the extraordinary new album by the Crow Quill Night Owls has been uploaded today. It's called 'Wrap your troubles in dreams' and consists of a raw blend of old timey, blues, vaudeville, jazz, all blended into an addictive soundscape! Brilliant album!
21st September 2013 - Today i've uploaded a review of yet another contender for 'Album of the year.' It's called 'Northern rock' and is the second hugely impressive recording by the talented Eastbound Jesus, a band that expertly blends old timey, bluegrass and much more into a pretty much unique stew!
17th September 2013 - I've added a review of an extraordinary new album by Sheesham, Lotus & 'Son. It's called '1929' and contains a mix of music that harks back many decades, all played and sung with a quite unique authenticity by this talented trio.
13th September 2013 - A review of the incredible new album by John Moreland, 'In The Throes' has been added to the September 2013 c.d reviews page. There have been half a dozen or so truly extraordinary album released in 2013. This is one of them!
10th September 2013 - A review of the beautiful new recording by Underhill Rose has been uploaded. It's called 'Something Real' and contains some terrific songs, beautifully sung and played by this hugely talented trio.
7th September 2013 - I've uploaded a review of Red Tail Ring's 'The Heart's Swift Foot,' a beautiful album of 'American folk music' by a tremendously talented duo.
3rd September 2013 - First album review of the month is the tremendous new recording by Scott Cook. It's called 'One more time around' and contains ten beautifully sparse melodic songs, some of which are quite reflective and others, thought provoking.
31st August 2013 - Last album review of the month is of a terrific and diverse recording of roots music from Jack Marks. It's called 'Blues like these' and not only contains blues music but also a blend of folksy country with a little r 'n' b. In fact, something for everyone!
26th August 2013 - A review of a tremendous album that is due for release tomorrow has been uploaded to the August c.d reviews page. It's called 'Not Before Time' and is by the excellent Foghorn Leghorn a talented London based band who cover most of the acoustic American Roots bases.
23rd August 2013 - I've added a review of the tremendous new album by Dennis Ellsworth. It's called 'Dusk Dreams' and is chock full of beautiful reflective, often thought provoking songs.
19th August 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the terrific new album by Michael & the Lonesome Playboys. It is called 'Bottle Cap Sky' and contains fifteen of Michael Ubaldini's beautifully written songs that range from rock 'n' roll to country and on to the blues. Tremendous album of great diversity.
15th August 2013 - A review of one of the two or three best albums so far this year has been added to the August c.d reviews page. It is the hugely talented Tillers new recording 'Hand On The Plow' and contains all their own original songs that are a blend of hillbilly/blues/folk/a little punk attitude and lots of originality on a truly great album!
12th August 2013 - I've uploaded a review of an album that could well be album of the the year 2013 and probably one of the albums of the decade! It is called 'Two Billion Acres Of Salt' and is by Hezekiah Goode. This is his 'difficult second album,' but it doesn't show! A truly great album of 'real country music!'
8th August 2013 - A review of the wonderful new album 'Old Fashioned Gal,' by the hugely talented, Austin Tx based trio, The Carper Family has been added to the August c.d reviews page.
5th August 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'The Long Haul' a tremendous new album of 'alt. country' by the talented Scottish band, The Wynntown Marshalls. It contains ten great atmospheric songs, all beautifully sung and played.
1st August 2013 - First c.d review of the month is a very good and stylistically varied album 'Yes Please' by talented Canadian band The Bills
29th July 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'Cavalcade,' the excellent new album by Jeffrey Foucault & Cold Satellite to the July c.d reviews page.
20th July 2013 - A review of the brilliant 'What's that hat for,' the new album by Hillfolk Noir has been added to the July c.d reviews page. To my mind it's their best yet, in a career of high points! Give yourself a treat and purchase a copy.
18th July 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the tremendous new album by Jeff Finlin. The title is 'My Moby Dick' and it contains some of Jeff's best songs yet on an album that consistently reveals further nuances with each listening session.
13th July 2013 - A review of the brilliant new album by Sturgill Simpson has been added to the July c.d reviews page. It is called 'High Top Mountain' and is quite literally one of the best 'country' albums of the century so far! Great songs, terrific vocals and great playing equals an album that everyone should have in their collection.
11th July 2013 - I've just uploaded a review of the new Leeroy Stagger album, 'Truth be sold,' an album that thanks to it's power and diversity will be on many year end 'best of' lists. He and his band were one of the highlights of last weekends Maverick Festival and if you live in south east England there is a further treat in wait for you at Brightons 'Prince Albert' pub on Tuesday 16th July where they will be playing what should be one of the gigs of the year! If by some freak chance that is not enough, the support will be Dennis Ellsworth, another artist who played a hugely impressive set at the Maverick festival. Can't wait!
8th July 2013 - After a brilliant weekend at the Maverick festival it's back to the real world and a new review, added today, of the brilliant new album 'Ghosts and Compromise' by Waiting For Henry. It's an album that despite having finished the review I just can't stop playing! If ever a term 'classic alt. country' applied it is to this album and hugely talented trio of musicians. Everything about the album is superb so enhance these hot sunny days further by treating yourself to a copy of this great album that will inevitably figure in my best of year list!
4th July 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the incredible new album by Chastity Brown. It's called 'Back Road Highways' and is a mix of deep delta blues, soul, gospel, jazz and much more. Ultimately will be classed as a blues album and will feature in many year, or decade, end lists as a truly great album!
2nd July 2013 - As we're half way through the year I decided to check the number of hits on www.americanrootsuk.com and was amazed to see that by mid June we had gone past 100,000 for this calender year. Not many when compared to some sites, but it feels like a hell of a lot to this one man band! To everyone that uses the site, thanks for your support, it really does mean a lot to someone who only started the site as a hobby! I was anticipating it would take up just a few hours a week and keep some friends informed about gigs and c.ds but now it seems to have taken over much of my life! Thanks again.
1st July 2013 - First album review for this month is the good time music of 'The Revelers' self titled album. Some covers, some of their own originals but all blended into an excellent roots music stew!
29th June 2013 - The last c.d review of this month is the tremendous new Charlie Parr album 'Barnswallow.' Ten songs, eight written by Charlie, that are an evocative blend of old time 'hillbilly' and blues, in a nutshell, some great folk music!
27th June 2013 - A review of the brilliant self titled debut album by 'Rattleshack' has been added to the June c.d reviews page. I had to read about them before i could believe they are actually British and not an old time 'hillbilly' band. This is real fiery punked up 'hillbilly' music brilliantly blended with tremendous British folk music. Buy the album, you won't regret it!
24th June 2013 - I've added a review of the gorgeous 'Driving toward the sun' by Susan James to the June c.d reviews page.
22nd June 2013 - A review of the terrific new Desolation Angels (Detroit) album 'Hell or Highwater' has beed added to the June c.d reviews page. (The addition of 'Detroit' is to avoid confusion with the heavy metal band of the same name.)
20th June 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'Darlingford' the gorgeous new album by ex "Wailin' Jenny," Cara Luft to the June c.d. reviews page . Enhance your life by buying a copy of this beautiful open hearted series of songs!
17th June 2013 - After four albums with top Canadian roots band 'The Gruff,' Jenny Ritter has struck out on her own with the beautiful debut album 'Bright Mainland.' There are lovely melodic songs, excellent playing and Jenny's gorgeous vocals on a series of beautifully spacy 'Canadian country' songs. A review has been added to the June c.d reviews page.
15th June 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'Cold Beans & Broken Eggs,' the new album by Sean Burns, to the June c.d reviews page. It features great story songs as well as tremendous vocals and playing on an album of 'real country music' that will certainly feature in my years end 'best of 2013' list!
13th June 2013 - A review of the terrific new country rock album 'Midnight Trains' by British band Red Moon Joe has been added to the June c.d reviews page. It is their first album for more than two decades and the question is, was it worth the wait? You bet it was!
10th June 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the terrific new album entitled 'Introducing the Wagon Tales.' Fairly obviously it is by the Wagon Tales and contains a diverse mix of bluegrass, old timey, folk and much more that is added to the pot to form a pretty much unique stew of great music!
8th June 2013 - A review of the tremendous 'Backenforth, IL.' by Chicago Farmer has been added to the June c.d reviews page. Brilliant album!
6th June 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the truly extraordinary new album by J.P. Whipple. It's called 'Racket' and I honestly didn't think anyone in this modern age was capable of making music this raw and atmospheric anymore but am happy to admit I was wrong. J.P. manages it and with interest!
4th June 2013 - A review of the beautiful new album 'The Living Record' by Christa Couture has been added to the June c.d reviews page.
2nd June 2013 - First c.d review of the month is the brilliant debut album by Corpse Reviver. It's called 'Vol.1: I'll be rested when the roll is called' and is built upon songs from 'Harry Smiths Anthology of American Folk Music.' A hugely talented trio who play the old music without the crackles and pops!
30th May 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'Works and Days,' the brilliant new album by Michael Tarbox to the May c.d reviews page. This is his second solo album following on from the pair he made with his great band The Tarbox Ramblers. The quality never slackens!
27th May 2013 - A review of the tremendous 6 song mini album 'The Miners Rebellion,' by The Miners has been added to the May 2013 c.d reviews page.
25th May 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the soon to be released debut album by Danni Nicholls. All of the tremendous songs were written by Danni and range from americana/alt. country to a distinct jazziness, all beautifully sung and played.
23rd May 2013 - I don't usually review instrumental albums but Glenn Jones new recording 'My garden State' is so good I just had to get something in print about it. Beautiful 'songs' and incredible playing makes it an essential addition to any roots music collection.
20th May 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the excellent new album by Old Man Markley. It's called 'Down Side Up' and contains the bands tremendous original punked up Americana songs and whilst I don't like everything about the recording I do love the album!
18th May 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'To build a fire' the extraordinary and probably career defining new album by Cam Penner. Take my word for it, you really need a copy of this incredible recording that will certainly figure in my best of 2013 list!
16th May 2013 - A review of the incredible 'PBB III' by The Piedmont Brothers Band, an album that is a real throwback to those glorious early days of 'Country rock,' has been added to the May c.d reviews page. It contains a few tremendous covers on which some of the original artists help out, as well as some excellent band originals.
13th May 2013 - I've added a review of the recent album by Vanessa Peters to the May c.d reviews page. It's called 'The burn the truth the lies' and contains some beautifully written stories all sung by one of the most gorgeous expressive voices you could wish to hear.
11th may 2013 - I've finally uploaded a review of what will be a sure fire contender for album of the year 2013. It's 'Up Like The Clouds,' the tremendous debut album by 'old timey' duo, Dubl Handi. (see review for explanation of the name!)
9th May 2013 - Saw the brilliant Woody Pines at the Prince Albert, Brighton last night where they played two stroming sets! I had intended uploading a review of their tremendous new album 'Rabbit's Motel' well before the date of the gig then promptly forgot, so i've now rectified that situation and added it to the May c.d reviews page! I was actually told by two people last night that they had read the review but I think they must have meant the few comments on the April playlist, unless i'm even more confused than usual. Always possible, I suppose!
6th May 2013 - A review of the gorgeous new album by Anders & Kendall entitled 'Wild Chorus' has been added to the May c.d. reviews page. It contains quite mellow sounds with tremendous lead and harmony vocals.
4th May 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the tremendous self titled debut album by 'The Stray Birds' to the May c.d reviews page. They are a hugely talented trio who play some tremendous modern 'old timey' music consisting of their own original songs.
2nd May 2013 - First album review of May is the new release by Phil Lee. It's a tremendous recording entitled 'The fall and further decline of the mighty King of love.' As you ,ight guess from the title, Phil is not a man who takes himself too seriously, although he is a tremendous musician who sits alone in the corner of the roots music field!
29th April 2013 - Final album review of April is of the tremendous new album by Jarrod Dickenson. It's called 'The Lonesome Traveler and is full of thought provoking, melodic songs with excellent vocals and playing.
April 27th 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'In that black sky,' the brilliant new album by Frankenpine. It consists of all their own original songs, excellent playing and singing, with an underlying darkness that can't really be compared to anyone else. Terrific album!
April 2013 - A review of the excellent 'Haymaker,' the new album by Hayward Williams has been added. It contains some highly literate songs, tremendous guitar playing and excellent vocals all mixed together to form an album that with repeated listening sessions gradually reveals even more depth.
20th April 2013 - I've uploaded a review of Annabelle Chvostek's extraordinary new album 'Rise.' Also included is a track from the album and a 15 minute piece of very recent video that includes Annabelle playing acoustically as well as an interview with musician/producer Jame Freeman of Union Music Store record label.
18th April 2013 - A review of the high quality but quirky new album by Kevin Breit has been added to the April c.d reviews page. It is called 'Field Recording' and is actually by 'Kevin Breit & the Upper York Mandolin Orchestra'.
13th April 2013 - I've uploaded a review of an album that I still play constantly. It's the brilliant 'Long Gone Out West Blues' by Pharis & Jason Romero an album that is both modern and an evocation of times long since gone!
Gorgeous album.
11th April 2013 - A review of the tremendous mini album by DH Lawrence and the Vaudeville Skiffle Show, entitled 'Escape this wicked life,' has been uploaded to the April c.d reviews page. Hugely entertaining, high quality music!
8th April 2013 - I've added a review of the tremendous new album by Rebecca Pronsky to the April c.d reviews page. It's called 'Only Daughter' and contains some of the best songs and performances to date by Rebecca and husband Rich Bennett. Country music is never far away, but there is so much more to this exceptional album.
5th April 2013 - Just uploaded the first c.d review of the month. It is Rita Hosking's beautiful new seven song recording entitled 'Little Boats' and is released on Monday 8th April. It is 'real country music' played and sung beautifully and with some tremendous lyrics as well.
28th March 2013 - The final c.d review to be added this month is 'Ghosts' by the extraordinarily talented J.P. Whipple. I thought his previous offering 'Bible Milk' was a tremendous album, but this is even better. A master songwriter with a voice that he manipulates to suit the occasion and a mastery of guitar and banjo that needs to be heard to be believed. Great album!
25th March 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the tremendous new album by Daniel Romano. It's called 'Come Cry With Me' and is an album that contains great songs, beautifully sung and played and anyone claiming to hear both a Hank and Gram influence is not misguided! A brilliant recording!
23rd March 2013 - A review of the gorgeous new album by Thomas Hine, 'Forgive My Future' has been uploaded to the March c.d reviews page. Slow, moody and at times very dark.
21st March 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the incredible new 'old timey' album by Adam Kiesling. It's called 'Unclouded day,' came out last year and had I discovered it at the time would without doubt have been one of my albums of the year!
19th March 2013 - A review of the excellent new album by J.J. Schultz entitled 'Carolina' has been added today.
17th March 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the tremendous new solo album by Jack Klatt. It's called 'Love me lonely' and is just Jack and his guitar on some of his own excellent originals as well as versions of a variety of other songs from various genres.
14th March 2013 - A review of 'Same Sad End' the tremendous new album by Rhubarb Whiskey has been added to the March c.d reviews page. It really is a brilliant roots album that contains an incredible blend of 'punk, country, old timey, a smattering of bluegrass, a little blues, gypsy, even some ‘cowboy’ music!' An all round great album of edgy roots music.
10th March 2013 - I've uploaded a review of '444' the tremendous new album by Free Range Folk. It includes music that blends just about every off shoot of 'country music.' In other words 'Real country music!'
8th March 2013 - A review of the tremendous new album 'Barn Burner' by the Give 'Em Hell Boys' has been added to the March c.d reviews page. If you love bland souless mainstream country music it's probably safer to give this one a miss!!
6th March 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the terrific new album by 'singer songwriter' David Hope. Some great folksy blues with a dash of country makes this an essential album!
2nd March 2013 - First album review of the month is the tremendous new offering by Jimbo Mathus and the Tri-State Coalition titled 'White Buffalo.' Jimbo is a man who never sits still musically, this time coming up with a 'classic country rock' album, but things are never that simple, or defined!
28th February 2012 - Last c.d reviewed this month is a real belter, 'Rough Carpenters' by the Black Twig Pickers. If ever a band defined modern 'old timey' music it is this one with their great 'hillbilly' music without all the crackles and pops!
25th February 2013 - First reveiw of the week is of the gorgeous 'A Killer's Dream,' the new recording by the wonderful Rachel Brooke. Her previous album was 'Down in the barnyard,' this websites album of the year 2011.
23rd February 2013 - I've uploaded a review of 'Royal Street' the gorgeous new album by Amanda Pearcy. If you like edgy Texas rooted country music this is definitely for you!
21st February 2013 - A review of the terrific debut album by Rob Heron & the Teapad Orchestra, 'Money Isn't Everything' has been added to the February c.d reviews page along with a piece of video and a song off the album.
18th February 2013 - I've just uploaded a review of the new mini album 'Lilac Sky' by Thea Hopkins. Six unusual but high quality songs, four of which were written by award winning lyricist Thea.
16th February 2013 - A review of the almost career defining 'The bravest birds' by Rob Lutes has been added to the February c.d reviews. It is chock full of virtuosic playing, excellent vocals and some tremendous writing.
14th February 2013 - I've uploaded a c.d review of the tremendous new album by Kevin Bowe & the Okemah Prophets. It's called 'Natchez Trace' and it's sixteen tracks cover a wide range of musical styles, all under the 'roots' umbrella.
11th February 2013 - I thought i'd get the week off to a flying start by uploading a review of the new album by Ben Bedford. It's the excellent 'What we lost,' his third album of tremendous songs, many rooted in historical fact and all beautifully sung and played.
9th February 2013 - A review of the excellent new album 'God bless these crooked little songs' by J Shogren & Shanghai'd has been added to the February c.d reviews page.
6th February 2012 - I've uploaded a review of the gorgeous debut album 'Not waving but drowning' by Brightons own Self Help Group. If you love harmony driven music you will not find better than this beautiful recording. It's no coincidence that it will also be one of two albums of the week on my Seasidehr 'American Roots' programme tonight!
4th February 2013 - Due to a fairly comprehensive vote I'm dropping the star system for album ratings. It could only ever be an approximation anyway, but the problem is that it was often a score that could change with virtually every listening session. It might come back if it is deemed useful, so we'll see how it goes!
I felt it appropriate to make a 5***** album the last to receive a score so i've uploaded a (lengthy!) review of the tremendous 'Hello Cold Goodbye Sun' by the Southern Tenant Folk Union.
1st February 2013 - First c.d review of the month is the tremendous debut by the Cameron Brothers Band. It's called 'Ratios' and contains some beautiful Canadian country and alt. country roots music, all beautifully played and sung with both male and female vocals.
31st January 2013 - Final c.d review of the month is a real belter of an album. It's the gorgeous 'Cigarettes & Truckstops' by the hugely talented 'alt. country' singer songwriter Lindi Ortega. As has become usual i've added a song from the album and a piece of video too!
26th January 2013 - Just uploaded a review of the brilliant new album by The Earl Brothers. It's called 'Outlaw Hillbilly' and rarely was an album more appropriately titled, containing as it does some dark hillbilly music that incorporates a little bluegrass and the brilliant playing and singing of some tremendous songs! Also added a song from the album and a piece of video.
24th January 2013 - A new review of the excellent new alt. country album by Mudgrass has been added. This excellent trio contains two talented singer songwriters who have produced some great music on 'Just That Way,' and promise much for the future as well as the here and now!
20th January 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the Leon Hunt N-Tet's new album 'Farewell Blues.' It is subtitled 'Remembering Earl Scruggs' which should give some idea of the musical content from one of the best Bluegrass bands around, and they're British!
17th January 2013 - A review of Old Man Luedecke's tremendous recent album 'Tender is the night' has been added, along with a song from the album and a piece of youtube video!
14th January 2013 - I've added a review of a gorgeous debut album by Vera Van Heeringen. It's called 'Standing Tall' and contains some lovely folksy country songs and instrumentals, all recorded in the U.S by this talented Dutch lady, who is highly rated by acoustic music legend Tim O' Brien!
11th January 2013 - After waging war against a particularly nasty computer virus we've finally got back on line and have uploaded a review of the excellent new album by The Bean Pickers Union called 'Better the Devil.' It's a beautifully conceived recording of mainly dark songs that repay repeated listening sessions.
3rd January 2013 - First review of the new year is the tremendous alt. country album, 'Science of Flight' by the Dirty River Boys. They have talent to burn and a considerable degree of individuality!
6th January 2013 - I've uploaded a review of the beautiful debut album by The Locust Honey String Band. It's called 'He Ain't No Good' and contains gorgeous versions of some classic songs, all beautifully performed, along with one of their own originals.
I'm hoping to make one or two additions to future reviews, (starting with this one) by adding an audio track from the album and some video, to hopefully add a little more colour and a sample of what you will hear when you purchase the album!