30th December 2017 - Final c.d review of the year is of one of my albums of the year! It is the hugely atmospheric 'Heart of the Cave' by the Orphan Brigade, a floating aggregation of talented musicians who have come together to make two of the best albums of the last couple of years. (The first was 'Soundtrack to a Ghost Story,' also reviewed on this site)
23rd December 2017 - I've added a review of a recording that had I numbered my top albums of the year would certainly have been prefixed by a single digit! It's the brilliant but highly unusual and generically ambiguous self titled debut from Scottish band The Strange Blue Dreams. Still time to get your copy before Santa arrives!
19th December 2017 - I've uploaded a review of one of my favourite albums of 2017! It's Dori Freeman's tremendous new recording 'Letters never read' and you have just about enough time to get yourself a copy before Christmas. Would also make a nice present that will definitely be appreciated by all who receive it.
16th December 2017 - Will hopefully be getting a couple more reviews on the website before taking a break over the Christmas period, starting with this tremendous second solo album from Luke Tuchscherer. He has to be one of the best singer songwriters, with strong country leanings, around as you will find when you've purchased and listened to your copy of 'Always be true!'
9th December 2017 - Something to warm you up on this cold frosty December morning is reading about and listening to Jeremy Pinnell's new album 'Ties of blood and affection.' Raw, evocative and easy to listen to over and over again; the review can be found on the December reviews page!
2nd December 2017 - First review of the month is the much later than originally intended 'Come on in,' the tremendous new album from one of the hits of this years Kilkenny festival, Prinz Grizzley.
26th November 2017 - I've uploaded a review of another album that will surely be in the upper reaches of my 'Albums of 2017' list. It is the incredible, and lengthy, 'Both hands on the bottle' the new release from RT 'n' the 44s. Buy the album, become addicted and then you can explore RTs tremendous back catalogue!
22nd November 2017 - I rarely review compilation albums but the Wynntown Marshals career overview, 'After all these years,' is well worth the time spent and the investment of some of your hard earned!
18th November 2017 - Finally, over two months after its release date I've uploaded a review of 'Don't mess with Mrs. Murphy,' the incredible new album by Heather Lynne Horton. Unusually, I've included two videos, the combination, at least to me, pretty much summing up the grit and realism of these thought provoking songs.
11th November 2017 - As is becoming the norm, much later than intended I've uploaded a review of another album that is certain to appear in many 'best of 2017' lists. This time it's 'The wolf and the bear,' the incredible new recording by The Coal Creek Boys. Unusually they released two albums at the same time, the other being the also brilliant 'The tall pine,' both of which are essential listening for all 'roots' fans!
4th November 2017 - First review of the new month is of one of the years most unusual 'country' albums. I've actually referred to it as 'prog. country,' rather than progressive country. Splitting hairs? I don't think so. In my world they are two entirely different beasts so buy The Mixus Brothers great new album 'To hang me high' and you'll hear what I mean!
29th October 2017 - Final review of the month is of another tremendous album that I had hoped to publish earlier. It is 'Keep me waiting' by the hugely talented Big Sadie, a band who have their own unique take on everything in and around 'country!'
22nd October 2017 - I finally managed to get finished and upload a review of 'Liberty,' the tremendous debut album from English husband and wife duo When Rivers Meet.
Proof yet again, if needed, that us Brits (or some of us Brits) can master American roots music!
17th October 2017 - A lengthy review of another album that will undoubtedly be in the upper reaches of my 'Albums of the year' this year has been added to this months c.d reviews page. It is 'Two different worlds' by hugely talented Pokey LaFarge sidesman Ryan Koenig, a recording that will grace any music collection!
10th October 2017 - I've added a review of the new album from Daniel Wylie's Cosmic Rough Riders. It is a real beauty of a recording titled 'Scenery for Dreamers' and, certainly to my ears, is Daniel's best yet!
7th October 2017 - I've uploaded a review of 'Ghost gardens' the incredible new album from Canadian 'alt. country string band' Elliott Brood.
4th October 2017 - This is another of those increasingly common 'better late than never' c.d review moments. This time i've uploaded a review of Sarah Jane Scouten's stunning new recording 'When the bloom falls from the rose.' It's been out for several months so if you haven't got your copy yet you can now get it immediately via the www!
1st October 2017 - First c.d review of the month is of a great band in it's second incarnation! Red Moon Joe were a great band back in the 1990s and are even better now, as evidenced by this new album 'Time & Life.'
27th September 2017 - Chris Blevins is another one of Horton Records hugely talented artists that has come out of Tulsa and I've just uploaded a review of his tremendous debut album 'Better than alone.'
23rd September 2017 -I've uploaded a review of 'Sweet simple life' the tremendous new solo album by Steve Welner of The Welldiggers!
19th September 2017 - Quite a few weeks later than intended I've uploaded a review of 'Good job everybody,' the tremendous new album by the Corn Potato String Band. They have few peers in the world of 'old timey' music so buy their albums and go to see them live if you get the chance!
16th September 2017 - I've managed to upload a review of the new Murder Murder album. It came out yesterday and is called 'Wicked lines and veins' and is another album that will be in the upper echelons of my years best albums. Also: If you get the chance to see them live take it, you won't see better!
9th September 2017 - I've uploaded a review of 'Ghost on the car radio,' the brilliant new album by Slaid Cleaves, a man who has been one of the most consistently excellent singer songwriters over the last 30 or so years.
6th September 2017 - As seems to be the norm now, I've uploaded a review of 'Eyes brand new,' the tremendous new album from husband and wife team Zoe & Cloyd a little later than intended.
3rd September 2017 - First album review of the month is a rather lengthy piece about 'Never Settle,' a tremendous new recording by the talented young English duo
Hope in High Water. Authentic Americana from Milton Keynes!
28th August 2017 - A bit later than anticipated I've uploaded a review of 'Moondancer,' the tremendous debut album from talented 'roots' duo 'Over the Moon.'
22nd August 2017 - I've uploaded a review of another album that is undoubtedly going to be in the upper reaches of my albums of the year, perhaps even challenging for top spot! It is the self titled debut album by the hugely talented 'old time country' duo of 'House & Land' a couple of young women so attuned to those early days of recording that many could be fooled into thinking it was recorded 100 or so years ago were it not for the pristine recording quality!
15th August 2017 - Considerably later than intended I've added a review of 'The Valley,' the terrific new album by The Whiskey Charmers to this months reviews page.
12th August 2017 - I've uploaded a review of the tremendous new self titled album by and titled 'Amanda Anne Platt & the Honeycutters.' This is an album that will make many best of 2017 lists and certainly will mine. They are currently on a U.K tour, and for locals they will be playing at the Con Club, Lewes, next Thursday 17th August!
(Great video included with the review as well)
9th August 2017 - Much later than originally anticipated I've added a review of 'A girl in teen city,' the tremendous new album by the hugely talented Canadian 'singer songwriter' Oh Susanna!
5th August 2017 - Zane Campbell is a member of a hugely talented family of musicians as well as being a direct descendant of the legendary Ola Belle Reed. The talent will be obvious to anyone who reads the review of his new album 'Ola wave' and then purchases and listens to that album!
1st August 2017 - First review of the month is of another album I had originally anticipated uploading a while ago but as is often the case life got in the way! The album is 'Watershed,' the tremendous new recording from the hugely talented Amelia Curran.
29th July 2017 - My old adage 'never use one word where six will do' applies to my unwieldy review of 'Stripped down gussied up,' the incredible new album by Pierce Edens. 'Stripped down' is dead right in the context of this sparse, raw, haunting album.
25th July 2017 - A couple of months after its release date but it's never too late to upload a review of John Alexanders tremendous new album 'Of these lands.' It is a recording that consists of some great original blues and much more and can be found on this months review page.
22nd July 2017 - A review has been added of 'Forager,' the stunning debut album by Lauren Barth, another huge talent who has come out of Tulsa on Horton Records.
15th July 2017 - I've uploaded a lengthy review of the front runner for my album of the year! It is 'Savage on the downhill' by Amber Cross and after literally countless plays it just gets better with every play! It's released next Saturday 21st July and you can order your copy now. Just go to Ambers website, the link to which can be found at the bottom of her review page, for details.
11th July 2017 - I've uplaoded a review of 'This Highway,' the tremendous new album from Zephaniah Ohora and the 18 Wheelers
5th July 2017 - First review of July gets the month off to a tremendous start with 'Other Love Songs' the brilliant new album by Front Country!
28th June 2017 - Final review of the month is of the tremendous 'Severed,' the debut album from Curse of Lono. Can't wait to see them at the Maverick Festival this weekend!
24th June 2017 - I've uploaded a review of the latest in a long line of great albums from Canadian singer songwriter Scott Cook. It is titled 'Further down the line' and your copy of it will further enhance your music collection! There is a tremendous book with it as well that holds some of Scott's musings and some brilliant photos.
21st June 2017 - It's the longest, hottest day of the year and I've managed to rouse myself enough to upload a review of 'No Rain, No Rose,' the tremendous new album by John Craigie.
17th June 2017 - Back from Scotland and as it's been two weeks since the last post on this site I thought I would upload my lengthy review of what is undoubtedly going to be one of the roots albums of 2017! It is the new self titled recording by 'The Harmed Bothers,' a band that contains two of the most evocative vocalists in alt. country. Read the review, then buy the album; I know you won't regret it.
3rd June 2017 - First c.d review of the month (and the last until I get home from Scotland in a couple of weeks) is of Hillfolk Noir's tremendous new recording 'Junkerpunch,' an album that will certainly be in the mix for my best of 2017 list!
30th May 2017 - Final review of this month is another I intended adding much sooner, but better late than never! It is of the tremendous 'Daylight Moon' by the hugely talented Cambridge, UK duo Ezio. I've also included a full live concert Video that was made just a couple of years ago.
27th May 2017 - A new Nathan Bell album is always a significant musical event and so it was with his latest release, 'Love>Fear' a review of which can be found on this months c.d reviews page.
23rd May 2017 - As seems to be the case more and more recently, much later than anticipated I've uploaded a review of the tremendous new album by Brighton 'country band' (and much more!) The Long Haul. It contains some tremendous songs that slot into a variety of country sub genres.
20th May 2017 - I've uploaded a review of 'Dirty Wonder,' the tremendous follow up to K Phillips excellent 2012 debut album 'American girls.'
18th May 2017 - I've tried (unsuccessfully!) to keep the following as brief as possible but whilst I'm going to continue with my radio shows and will keep www.americanrootsuk.com going with occasional 'bits and pieces,' for no drastic reason other than I've been doing it for a long time and have finally 'had enough,' I've decided to give up writing reviews.
The following reviews are at various stages of completion: Corn Potato String Band, Curse of Lono, Ezio, Front Country, Hillfolk Noir, John Alexander, John Craigie, K Phillips, Lauren Barth, Nathan Bell, Oh Susanna, Pierce Edens, Scott Cook, Shannon McNally, The Harmed Brothers, The Long Haul, Zane Campbell, Zepheniah Ohora & the 18 Wheelers. When completed they will be uploaded to the website over the next several months.
There is another list below of albums I have that will quite possibly get reviewed but they haven't even been started yet so they will appear 'in due course.'
Zoe & Cloyd, Amelia Curran, Mouths of Babes, Norrie McCulloch, Damien McGeehan, Modern Mal, David Corley, Slaid Cleaves, Malcolm Holcombe, Whiskey Charmers, Jared Tyler, Brock Zeman. A few others look interesting in the large stack that is being constantly added to but further reviews after these are completed will be a rarity.
I will assume that the sender of any c.ds received from now on will be happy for them to be featured on my radio programme and not be subjected to a review! Nothing will really change in the short term other than the fact that I won't be taking on the writing of any more reviews apart from those mentioned above, from today's date.
16th May 2017 - Very much later than intended i've uploaded a review of 'Copper & Lace,' the incredible new album from British band, The Most Ugly Child.
13th May 2017 - A review of 'Songs from Dan,' the tremendous new album by Dan Tuffy has been added to this months c.d reviews pages!
9th May 2017 - I've uploaded a review of the self titled debut album by "Lil' Lost Lou" to the May c.d reviews page. She is a hugely talented young English lady who plays a highly original blend of various elements that make up country music and its myriad off shoots. Take my word for it, you really need this album in your collection!
6th May 2017 - Oh how I love an album of the year contender and Donald Byron Wheatley's incredible debut album 'Moondogs and Mad Dogs' is most definitely in amongst the favourites so far. You can find a (lengthy!) review on this months c.d review page.
Apologies for the fact that Donald's bio, mentioned in the review, has yet to feature on the site. Hopefully it will do by Monday 8th at the latest.
3rd May 2017 - Back from the incredible Kilkenny Music Festival and the first c.d review of the month is of the tremendous debut solo album from Butchers Blind's front man Pete Mancini with 'Foothill Freeway.'
25th April 2017 - Very much later than intended I've added a review of 'The Miller Girl,' the tremendous new album by Steve Hussey & Jake Eddy to this months c.d. reviews page.
22nd April 2017 - I've uploaded a review of 'The stars fall shooting into Twangville,' the brilliant new album from the Secret Emchy Society. A brief summation of this recording is not possible, so read the review then on 14th July you can buy yourself a copy.
It really is that good!
18th April 2017 - It's rare that I review compilations but the 'Best of the Old Crow Medicine Show' is one of very few exceptions! The reason? They are one of my all time favourite bands and put on what was one of the best, if not THE best, live gigs I've ever seen!
15th April 2017 - I've uploaded a review of 'Dorado' by Son of the Velvet Rat, one of the most intriguing and unusual American Roots albums that I can recall.
11th April 2017 - A review of 'Nothin' Unexpected' the tremendous new album by the hugely talented English 'country' singer songwriter Ags Connolly has been uploaded to this months c.d reviews page.
8th April 2017 - Considerably later than originally planned I've uploaded a review of 'Hillbilly Trance,' the incredible new recording from The Delta ladies.
4th April 2017 - I've uploaded a review of 'Transatlantica,' the tremendous new recording by master of the Telecaster, Bill Kirchen and the equally masterful keyboards player and former 'Eggs Over Easy' mainstay Austin De Lone. It is an album that truly contains something for just about everyone!
1st April 2017- First review of the month is of Rayna Gellert's beautiful new seven song recording 'Workin's too hard.' Enhance your life and treat yourself to a copy!
28th March 2017 - I've uploaded a review of 'Real Sharp,' the tremendous new career spanning compilation of Chilli Willi & the Red Hot Peppers. Back in the early 1970s they were defined as a 'Pub Rock' band but were actually one of the best 'country rock' bands of their time!
25th March 2017 - Later than intended, as seems to be the norm at the moment, I've uploaded a review of the tremendous recent solo album, 'Shooting stars and Tiny Tears' by Daniel Meade.
21st March 2017 - Much later than anticipated I've uploaded a review of the The Harmed Brothers recent e.p/mini album, 'A lovely conversation.' It only precedes their new album by a few weeks but gives a brilliant taster of what they are about. Whet your appetite with this one then whilst its still fresh in your mind you can purchase the new album!
18th March 2017 - I've uploaded a review of the soon to be released 'Sleeping with the lights on,' the brilliant new album by one of my all time favourite bands June Star. I've also added a 50+ minute video that I hadn't seen before which highlights some of the bands talents whilst also featuring the hugely talented Ellen Cherry.
15th March 2017 - A bit later than anticipated but I've uploaded a review of 'Up Ahead,' the new recording from hugely talented singer/songwriter (and much more!) Travis Linville
11th March 2017 - I've uploaded a review of 'I'll make the most of my sins,' the tremendous new album by Robert Vincent to this months c.d reviews page.
7th March 2017 - I've uploaded a review of the gorgeous 'Country songs,' the tremendous new recording by the hugely talented Karen Jonas.
6th March 2017 - I've either finished or nearly finished writing reviews of the albums
listed below:
Ags Connolly, Old Crow medicine Show, Chilli Willi & the Red Hot Peppers, Daniel Meade, Harmed Brothers, June Star, Karen Jonas, Rayna Gellert, Robert Vincent, Steve Hussey & Jake Eddy, The Delta Ladies, The Most Ugly Chils, Travis Linville.
There are a few others that I'm hoping to start soon that are not included in the list but after that I'm taking a long, perhaps permanent break from review writing. I may still do the occasional one or two to keep my hand in and will still be presenting my radio programmes as well as keeping www.americanrootsuk.com going in one form or another!
3rd march 2017 - First c.d review of the month is one of the longest I've written and certainly longer than anything I'm likely to write in the future! It is called 'Deep Water' and is the incredible new recording by the band Elouise. It is spooky and has a strange otherworldly atmosphere that sets the band apart from their peers and when combined with the tremendous songs and performances contribute towards making Deep water a truly outstanding album!
The only video I could find of them was on their website a link to which is at the bottom of the review.
28th February 2017 - Final c.d review of this month is of Sea Star's excellent new recording 'Never go back.' It proves that whilst British bands can play American music as if natives, American bands can do the same with 'Celtic music!'
25th February 2017 - I've uploaded a review of 'After the Rain,' the tremendous new album by Hat Fitz & Cara. An Australian bluesman and an Irish roots singer get together and make some incredible blues and much more!
21st February 2017 - 'Chuck Westmoreland,' the mans self titled debut album starts off with a contemporary country feeling but by the end listeners will be thinking this unusual recording is anything but contemporary! It certainly is country though, and a review can be found on the February reviews page.
18th February 2017 - I love the raw edgy music of the old time 'hillbillies' and there are no finer modern purveyors of that genre than Pappy Fisher & his Old Time Entertainers. I've added a review of their new album 'The little old log cabin down the lane,' so buy a copy and hear an authentic take on the old music without the crackles and the scratchy sound!
14th February 2017 - I've uploaded a review of David Simards's 'The Heavy Wait,' one of the most mellow, yet powerful albums I've heard for a long time.
10th February 2017 - A Little later than anticipated I've uploaded a review of 'Winter in London,' the tremendous new recording by Stevie Ray Latham. On the strength of this excellent recording stardom beckons!
7th February 2017 - Another late comer to the c.d reviews page is 'True Believer' the tremendous recent album by Red Sammy and Some Charming Trespassers. It consists of eight beautifully played and sung songs that tug the emotions in different directions and leave a lasting impression.
2nd February 2017 - Well into the seventh year of running this website now and if I decide to take it into an eighth year I will have to considerably reduce the length of the reviews and the time taken to write them. The incredible self titled full length debut by 'The Waydown Wanderers' would not have been the place to start. In fact, lengthy though the review is each play of this tremendous album makes me want to add further paragraphs as the recording reveals more and more depth and quality!
31st January 2017 - Final review of the month is of one of the best albums to be released in 2016. It is by Adrian & Meredith and is called 'More than a little,' a recording that virtually defines the term 'roots music!'
28th January 2017 - Jack Grelle is a name I was unfamiliar with until I received a copy of his third album 'Got dressed up to be let down,' but I now see him as the new(ish) voice of edgy country music. This new album is full of great songs powered by some excellent playing and an incredibly warm vocal style that will enhance anyone's album collection whatever your taste!
24th January 2017 - I've uploaded a review of Bap Kennedy's final album 'Reckless Heart.' It was released posthumously and is a fitting tribute to a great singer songwriter.
21st January 2017 - I've uploaded a review of the tremendous album that was released last year by Caleb Klauder and Reeb Willms. It's called 'Innocent Road' and has a quite stunning quality, particularly in the way they blend together so beautifully. There is a flow and an extraordinary level of musicianship that few can match.
17th January 2017 - Better late than never, I've added a review of 'Perish in the light' the tremendous new album by Trevor Alguire to this months c.d reviews page.
14th January 2017 - I've just uploaded a review of the incredible new album by Pony Hunt. It contains some beautiful and completely unique songs and is titled 'Heart Creek' Do yourself a huge favour and buy a copy. You won't regret it.
10th January 2017 - Fifth On The Floor were a great band who are sadly no longer in existence but we fans can at least console ourselves with band mainstay Justin Wells tremendous debut solo album 'Dawn in the distance.' It is at least as good as you could expect or hope and is reviewed on this months c.d reviews page.
7th January 2017 - I've uploaded a review of the tremendous new album by Furnace Mountain. It's called 'Shadow of Plenty' and consists of some of the finest 'Appalachian soul' music around!
3rd January 2017 - Start your new year off with a great full length debut album from Zach Schmidt. It is titled 'The day we lost the war' and is a recording that actually defines the term 'real country music!'
23rd December 2017 - I've added a review of a recording that had I numbered my top albums of the year would certainly have been prefixed by a single digit! It's the brilliant but highly unusual and generically ambiguous self titled debut from Scottish band The Strange Blue Dreams. Still time to get your copy before Santa arrives!
19th December 2017 - I've uploaded a review of one of my favourite albums of 2017! It's Dori Freeman's tremendous new recording 'Letters never read' and you have just about enough time to get yourself a copy before Christmas. Would also make a nice present that will definitely be appreciated by all who receive it.
16th December 2017 - Will hopefully be getting a couple more reviews on the website before taking a break over the Christmas period, starting with this tremendous second solo album from Luke Tuchscherer. He has to be one of the best singer songwriters, with strong country leanings, around as you will find when you've purchased and listened to your copy of 'Always be true!'
9th December 2017 - Something to warm you up on this cold frosty December morning is reading about and listening to Jeremy Pinnell's new album 'Ties of blood and affection.' Raw, evocative and easy to listen to over and over again; the review can be found on the December reviews page!
2nd December 2017 - First review of the month is the much later than originally intended 'Come on in,' the tremendous new album from one of the hits of this years Kilkenny festival, Prinz Grizzley.
26th November 2017 - I've uploaded a review of another album that will surely be in the upper reaches of my 'Albums of 2017' list. It is the incredible, and lengthy, 'Both hands on the bottle' the new release from RT 'n' the 44s. Buy the album, become addicted and then you can explore RTs tremendous back catalogue!
22nd November 2017 - I rarely review compilation albums but the Wynntown Marshals career overview, 'After all these years,' is well worth the time spent and the investment of some of your hard earned!
18th November 2017 - Finally, over two months after its release date I've uploaded a review of 'Don't mess with Mrs. Murphy,' the incredible new album by Heather Lynne Horton. Unusually, I've included two videos, the combination, at least to me, pretty much summing up the grit and realism of these thought provoking songs.
11th November 2017 - As is becoming the norm, much later than intended I've uploaded a review of another album that is certain to appear in many 'best of 2017' lists. This time it's 'The wolf and the bear,' the incredible new recording by The Coal Creek Boys. Unusually they released two albums at the same time, the other being the also brilliant 'The tall pine,' both of which are essential listening for all 'roots' fans!
4th November 2017 - First review of the new month is of one of the years most unusual 'country' albums. I've actually referred to it as 'prog. country,' rather than progressive country. Splitting hairs? I don't think so. In my world they are two entirely different beasts so buy The Mixus Brothers great new album 'To hang me high' and you'll hear what I mean!
29th October 2017 - Final review of the month is of another tremendous album that I had hoped to publish earlier. It is 'Keep me waiting' by the hugely talented Big Sadie, a band who have their own unique take on everything in and around 'country!'
22nd October 2017 - I finally managed to get finished and upload a review of 'Liberty,' the tremendous debut album from English husband and wife duo When Rivers Meet.
Proof yet again, if needed, that us Brits (or some of us Brits) can master American roots music!
17th October 2017 - A lengthy review of another album that will undoubtedly be in the upper reaches of my 'Albums of the year' this year has been added to this months c.d reviews page. It is 'Two different worlds' by hugely talented Pokey LaFarge sidesman Ryan Koenig, a recording that will grace any music collection!
10th October 2017 - I've added a review of the new album from Daniel Wylie's Cosmic Rough Riders. It is a real beauty of a recording titled 'Scenery for Dreamers' and, certainly to my ears, is Daniel's best yet!
7th October 2017 - I've uploaded a review of 'Ghost gardens' the incredible new album from Canadian 'alt. country string band' Elliott Brood.
4th October 2017 - This is another of those increasingly common 'better late than never' c.d review moments. This time i've uploaded a review of Sarah Jane Scouten's stunning new recording 'When the bloom falls from the rose.' It's been out for several months so if you haven't got your copy yet you can now get it immediately via the www!
1st October 2017 - First c.d review of the month is of a great band in it's second incarnation! Red Moon Joe were a great band back in the 1990s and are even better now, as evidenced by this new album 'Time & Life.'
27th September 2017 - Chris Blevins is another one of Horton Records hugely talented artists that has come out of Tulsa and I've just uploaded a review of his tremendous debut album 'Better than alone.'
23rd September 2017 -I've uploaded a review of 'Sweet simple life' the tremendous new solo album by Steve Welner of The Welldiggers!
19th September 2017 - Quite a few weeks later than intended I've uploaded a review of 'Good job everybody,' the tremendous new album by the Corn Potato String Band. They have few peers in the world of 'old timey' music so buy their albums and go to see them live if you get the chance!
16th September 2017 - I've managed to upload a review of the new Murder Murder album. It came out yesterday and is called 'Wicked lines and veins' and is another album that will be in the upper echelons of my years best albums. Also: If you get the chance to see them live take it, you won't see better!
9th September 2017 - I've uploaded a review of 'Ghost on the car radio,' the brilliant new album by Slaid Cleaves, a man who has been one of the most consistently excellent singer songwriters over the last 30 or so years.
6th September 2017 - As seems to be the norm now, I've uploaded a review of 'Eyes brand new,' the tremendous new album from husband and wife team Zoe & Cloyd a little later than intended.
3rd September 2017 - First album review of the month is a rather lengthy piece about 'Never Settle,' a tremendous new recording by the talented young English duo
Hope in High Water. Authentic Americana from Milton Keynes!
28th August 2017 - A bit later than anticipated I've uploaded a review of 'Moondancer,' the tremendous debut album from talented 'roots' duo 'Over the Moon.'
22nd August 2017 - I've uploaded a review of another album that is undoubtedly going to be in the upper reaches of my albums of the year, perhaps even challenging for top spot! It is the self titled debut album by the hugely talented 'old time country' duo of 'House & Land' a couple of young women so attuned to those early days of recording that many could be fooled into thinking it was recorded 100 or so years ago were it not for the pristine recording quality!
15th August 2017 - Considerably later than intended I've added a review of 'The Valley,' the terrific new album by The Whiskey Charmers to this months reviews page.
12th August 2017 - I've uploaded a review of the tremendous new self titled album by and titled 'Amanda Anne Platt & the Honeycutters.' This is an album that will make many best of 2017 lists and certainly will mine. They are currently on a U.K tour, and for locals they will be playing at the Con Club, Lewes, next Thursday 17th August!
(Great video included with the review as well)
9th August 2017 - Much later than originally anticipated I've added a review of 'A girl in teen city,' the tremendous new album by the hugely talented Canadian 'singer songwriter' Oh Susanna!
5th August 2017 - Zane Campbell is a member of a hugely talented family of musicians as well as being a direct descendant of the legendary Ola Belle Reed. The talent will be obvious to anyone who reads the review of his new album 'Ola wave' and then purchases and listens to that album!
1st August 2017 - First review of the month is of another album I had originally anticipated uploading a while ago but as is often the case life got in the way! The album is 'Watershed,' the tremendous new recording from the hugely talented Amelia Curran.
29th July 2017 - My old adage 'never use one word where six will do' applies to my unwieldy review of 'Stripped down gussied up,' the incredible new album by Pierce Edens. 'Stripped down' is dead right in the context of this sparse, raw, haunting album.
25th July 2017 - A couple of months after its release date but it's never too late to upload a review of John Alexanders tremendous new album 'Of these lands.' It is a recording that consists of some great original blues and much more and can be found on this months review page.
22nd July 2017 - A review has been added of 'Forager,' the stunning debut album by Lauren Barth, another huge talent who has come out of Tulsa on Horton Records.
15th July 2017 - I've uploaded a lengthy review of the front runner for my album of the year! It is 'Savage on the downhill' by Amber Cross and after literally countless plays it just gets better with every play! It's released next Saturday 21st July and you can order your copy now. Just go to Ambers website, the link to which can be found at the bottom of her review page, for details.
11th July 2017 - I've uplaoded a review of 'This Highway,' the tremendous new album from Zephaniah Ohora and the 18 Wheelers
5th July 2017 - First review of July gets the month off to a tremendous start with 'Other Love Songs' the brilliant new album by Front Country!
28th June 2017 - Final review of the month is of the tremendous 'Severed,' the debut album from Curse of Lono. Can't wait to see them at the Maverick Festival this weekend!
24th June 2017 - I've uploaded a review of the latest in a long line of great albums from Canadian singer songwriter Scott Cook. It is titled 'Further down the line' and your copy of it will further enhance your music collection! There is a tremendous book with it as well that holds some of Scott's musings and some brilliant photos.
21st June 2017 - It's the longest, hottest day of the year and I've managed to rouse myself enough to upload a review of 'No Rain, No Rose,' the tremendous new album by John Craigie.
17th June 2017 - Back from Scotland and as it's been two weeks since the last post on this site I thought I would upload my lengthy review of what is undoubtedly going to be one of the roots albums of 2017! It is the new self titled recording by 'The Harmed Bothers,' a band that contains two of the most evocative vocalists in alt. country. Read the review, then buy the album; I know you won't regret it.
3rd June 2017 - First c.d review of the month (and the last until I get home from Scotland in a couple of weeks) is of Hillfolk Noir's tremendous new recording 'Junkerpunch,' an album that will certainly be in the mix for my best of 2017 list!
30th May 2017 - Final review of this month is another I intended adding much sooner, but better late than never! It is of the tremendous 'Daylight Moon' by the hugely talented Cambridge, UK duo Ezio. I've also included a full live concert Video that was made just a couple of years ago.
27th May 2017 - A new Nathan Bell album is always a significant musical event and so it was with his latest release, 'Love>Fear' a review of which can be found on this months c.d reviews page.
23rd May 2017 - As seems to be the case more and more recently, much later than anticipated I've uploaded a review of the tremendous new album by Brighton 'country band' (and much more!) The Long Haul. It contains some tremendous songs that slot into a variety of country sub genres.
20th May 2017 - I've uploaded a review of 'Dirty Wonder,' the tremendous follow up to K Phillips excellent 2012 debut album 'American girls.'
18th May 2017 - I've tried (unsuccessfully!) to keep the following as brief as possible but whilst I'm going to continue with my radio shows and will keep www.americanrootsuk.com going with occasional 'bits and pieces,' for no drastic reason other than I've been doing it for a long time and have finally 'had enough,' I've decided to give up writing reviews.
The following reviews are at various stages of completion: Corn Potato String Band, Curse of Lono, Ezio, Front Country, Hillfolk Noir, John Alexander, John Craigie, K Phillips, Lauren Barth, Nathan Bell, Oh Susanna, Pierce Edens, Scott Cook, Shannon McNally, The Harmed Brothers, The Long Haul, Zane Campbell, Zepheniah Ohora & the 18 Wheelers. When completed they will be uploaded to the website over the next several months.
There is another list below of albums I have that will quite possibly get reviewed but they haven't even been started yet so they will appear 'in due course.'
Zoe & Cloyd, Amelia Curran, Mouths of Babes, Norrie McCulloch, Damien McGeehan, Modern Mal, David Corley, Slaid Cleaves, Malcolm Holcombe, Whiskey Charmers, Jared Tyler, Brock Zeman. A few others look interesting in the large stack that is being constantly added to but further reviews after these are completed will be a rarity.
I will assume that the sender of any c.ds received from now on will be happy for them to be featured on my radio programme and not be subjected to a review! Nothing will really change in the short term other than the fact that I won't be taking on the writing of any more reviews apart from those mentioned above, from today's date.
16th May 2017 - Very much later than intended i've uploaded a review of 'Copper & Lace,' the incredible new album from British band, The Most Ugly Child.
13th May 2017 - A review of 'Songs from Dan,' the tremendous new album by Dan Tuffy has been added to this months c.d reviews pages!
9th May 2017 - I've uploaded a review of the self titled debut album by "Lil' Lost Lou" to the May c.d reviews page. She is a hugely talented young English lady who plays a highly original blend of various elements that make up country music and its myriad off shoots. Take my word for it, you really need this album in your collection!
6th May 2017 - Oh how I love an album of the year contender and Donald Byron Wheatley's incredible debut album 'Moondogs and Mad Dogs' is most definitely in amongst the favourites so far. You can find a (lengthy!) review on this months c.d review page.
Apologies for the fact that Donald's bio, mentioned in the review, has yet to feature on the site. Hopefully it will do by Monday 8th at the latest.
3rd May 2017 - Back from the incredible Kilkenny Music Festival and the first c.d review of the month is of the tremendous debut solo album from Butchers Blind's front man Pete Mancini with 'Foothill Freeway.'
25th April 2017 - Very much later than intended I've added a review of 'The Miller Girl,' the tremendous new album by Steve Hussey & Jake Eddy to this months c.d. reviews page.
22nd April 2017 - I've uploaded a review of 'The stars fall shooting into Twangville,' the brilliant new album from the Secret Emchy Society. A brief summation of this recording is not possible, so read the review then on 14th July you can buy yourself a copy.
It really is that good!
18th April 2017 - It's rare that I review compilations but the 'Best of the Old Crow Medicine Show' is one of very few exceptions! The reason? They are one of my all time favourite bands and put on what was one of the best, if not THE best, live gigs I've ever seen!
15th April 2017 - I've uploaded a review of 'Dorado' by Son of the Velvet Rat, one of the most intriguing and unusual American Roots albums that I can recall.
11th April 2017 - A review of 'Nothin' Unexpected' the tremendous new album by the hugely talented English 'country' singer songwriter Ags Connolly has been uploaded to this months c.d reviews page.
8th April 2017 - Considerably later than originally planned I've uploaded a review of 'Hillbilly Trance,' the incredible new recording from The Delta ladies.
4th April 2017 - I've uploaded a review of 'Transatlantica,' the tremendous new recording by master of the Telecaster, Bill Kirchen and the equally masterful keyboards player and former 'Eggs Over Easy' mainstay Austin De Lone. It is an album that truly contains something for just about everyone!
1st April 2017- First review of the month is of Rayna Gellert's beautiful new seven song recording 'Workin's too hard.' Enhance your life and treat yourself to a copy!
28th March 2017 - I've uploaded a review of 'Real Sharp,' the tremendous new career spanning compilation of Chilli Willi & the Red Hot Peppers. Back in the early 1970s they were defined as a 'Pub Rock' band but were actually one of the best 'country rock' bands of their time!
25th March 2017 - Later than intended, as seems to be the norm at the moment, I've uploaded a review of the tremendous recent solo album, 'Shooting stars and Tiny Tears' by Daniel Meade.
21st March 2017 - Much later than anticipated I've uploaded a review of the The Harmed Brothers recent e.p/mini album, 'A lovely conversation.' It only precedes their new album by a few weeks but gives a brilliant taster of what they are about. Whet your appetite with this one then whilst its still fresh in your mind you can purchase the new album!
18th March 2017 - I've uploaded a review of the soon to be released 'Sleeping with the lights on,' the brilliant new album by one of my all time favourite bands June Star. I've also added a 50+ minute video that I hadn't seen before which highlights some of the bands talents whilst also featuring the hugely talented Ellen Cherry.
15th March 2017 - A bit later than anticipated but I've uploaded a review of 'Up Ahead,' the new recording from hugely talented singer/songwriter (and much more!) Travis Linville
11th March 2017 - I've uploaded a review of 'I'll make the most of my sins,' the tremendous new album by Robert Vincent to this months c.d reviews page.
7th March 2017 - I've uploaded a review of the gorgeous 'Country songs,' the tremendous new recording by the hugely talented Karen Jonas.
6th March 2017 - I've either finished or nearly finished writing reviews of the albums
listed below:
Ags Connolly, Old Crow medicine Show, Chilli Willi & the Red Hot Peppers, Daniel Meade, Harmed Brothers, June Star, Karen Jonas, Rayna Gellert, Robert Vincent, Steve Hussey & Jake Eddy, The Delta Ladies, The Most Ugly Chils, Travis Linville.
There are a few others that I'm hoping to start soon that are not included in the list but after that I'm taking a long, perhaps permanent break from review writing. I may still do the occasional one or two to keep my hand in and will still be presenting my radio programmes as well as keeping www.americanrootsuk.com going in one form or another!
3rd march 2017 - First c.d review of the month is one of the longest I've written and certainly longer than anything I'm likely to write in the future! It is called 'Deep Water' and is the incredible new recording by the band Elouise. It is spooky and has a strange otherworldly atmosphere that sets the band apart from their peers and when combined with the tremendous songs and performances contribute towards making Deep water a truly outstanding album!
The only video I could find of them was on their website a link to which is at the bottom of the review.
28th February 2017 - Final c.d review of this month is of Sea Star's excellent new recording 'Never go back.' It proves that whilst British bands can play American music as if natives, American bands can do the same with 'Celtic music!'
25th February 2017 - I've uploaded a review of 'After the Rain,' the tremendous new album by Hat Fitz & Cara. An Australian bluesman and an Irish roots singer get together and make some incredible blues and much more!
21st February 2017 - 'Chuck Westmoreland,' the mans self titled debut album starts off with a contemporary country feeling but by the end listeners will be thinking this unusual recording is anything but contemporary! It certainly is country though, and a review can be found on the February reviews page.
18th February 2017 - I love the raw edgy music of the old time 'hillbillies' and there are no finer modern purveyors of that genre than Pappy Fisher & his Old Time Entertainers. I've added a review of their new album 'The little old log cabin down the lane,' so buy a copy and hear an authentic take on the old music without the crackles and the scratchy sound!
14th February 2017 - I've uploaded a review of David Simards's 'The Heavy Wait,' one of the most mellow, yet powerful albums I've heard for a long time.
10th February 2017 - A Little later than anticipated I've uploaded a review of 'Winter in London,' the tremendous new recording by Stevie Ray Latham. On the strength of this excellent recording stardom beckons!
7th February 2017 - Another late comer to the c.d reviews page is 'True Believer' the tremendous recent album by Red Sammy and Some Charming Trespassers. It consists of eight beautifully played and sung songs that tug the emotions in different directions and leave a lasting impression.
2nd February 2017 - Well into the seventh year of running this website now and if I decide to take it into an eighth year I will have to considerably reduce the length of the reviews and the time taken to write them. The incredible self titled full length debut by 'The Waydown Wanderers' would not have been the place to start. In fact, lengthy though the review is each play of this tremendous album makes me want to add further paragraphs as the recording reveals more and more depth and quality!
31st January 2017 - Final review of the month is of one of the best albums to be released in 2016. It is by Adrian & Meredith and is called 'More than a little,' a recording that virtually defines the term 'roots music!'
28th January 2017 - Jack Grelle is a name I was unfamiliar with until I received a copy of his third album 'Got dressed up to be let down,' but I now see him as the new(ish) voice of edgy country music. This new album is full of great songs powered by some excellent playing and an incredibly warm vocal style that will enhance anyone's album collection whatever your taste!
24th January 2017 - I've uploaded a review of Bap Kennedy's final album 'Reckless Heart.' It was released posthumously and is a fitting tribute to a great singer songwriter.
21st January 2017 - I've uploaded a review of the tremendous album that was released last year by Caleb Klauder and Reeb Willms. It's called 'Innocent Road' and has a quite stunning quality, particularly in the way they blend together so beautifully. There is a flow and an extraordinary level of musicianship that few can match.
17th January 2017 - Better late than never, I've added a review of 'Perish in the light' the tremendous new album by Trevor Alguire to this months c.d reviews page.
14th January 2017 - I've just uploaded a review of the incredible new album by Pony Hunt. It contains some beautiful and completely unique songs and is titled 'Heart Creek' Do yourself a huge favour and buy a copy. You won't regret it.
10th January 2017 - Fifth On The Floor were a great band who are sadly no longer in existence but we fans can at least console ourselves with band mainstay Justin Wells tremendous debut solo album 'Dawn in the distance.' It is at least as good as you could expect or hope and is reviewed on this months c.d reviews page.
7th January 2017 - I've uploaded a review of the tremendous new album by Furnace Mountain. It's called 'Shadow of Plenty' and consists of some of the finest 'Appalachian soul' music around!
3rd January 2017 - Start your new year off with a great full length debut album from Zach Schmidt. It is titled 'The day we lost the war' and is a recording that actually defines the term 'real country music!'