Twice Reflected Sun

Nancy Kerr & James Fagan

There's a simplicity, even a starkness, to this set of originals that is beautifully balanced by the duo's unique brand of melodic gold. An eagerly anticipated project which has been brewing for years before the bulk of it was completed by Nancy whilst in Australia. With Rob Harbron playing a multi-tasking studio role and Ric Foot on occasional bass, the scene is a harmonious one that doesn't disappoint; it's the clarity and pleasure in the storytelling that shines through on, recent live favourites, 'Queen Of Waters', Jerilderie' and 'Hauling On'. Coupled with instrumentals from James, that positively glow, this album will provide ample warmth on a winter's evening and keep them at the cutting edge of their trade.

www.kerrfagan.com/

White Nights

Catriona McKay & Chris Stout

Two highly respected artists playing two instruments - Catriona, the Scottish Harp and Chris, the fiddle. The way they create such tension and mystery by themselves is phenomenal. With influences constantly switching between The Shetlands and Scandinavia it's cinematic in it's scope and execution. And apart from one small trad detour, all their own material.

If this is your thing, then buy it; if it isn't, then hear it and make up your mind again.

http://www.mckaystoutmusic.co.uk

The Life Of Birds

David Rotheray

Being a songwriter and guitarist for The Beautiful South, but having not a zilch of confidence in your own singing, doesn't leave any obvious paths for new projects. However, not to be deterred, David Rotheray has called on a number of folk luminaries to help create this bumper crop of ornithologically themed heart bruisers.

The birdy metaphors soon reveal a plethora of subject matter ranging from the music industry to Alzheimer's disease. And, with Jim Causley, Bella Hardy, Eliza Carthy, Julie Murphy, amongst others, all contributing some of their most rewarding vocal performances, it will definitely send you into a flutter!

www.davidrotheray.com

Skerryvore

Skerryvore

If Skerryvore set out to write and perform confident, uplifting folk-rock, then they've achieved their task with aplomb. The band, six young lads from the Isle of Tiree in Scotland’s Inner Hebrides, aren't shy when it comes to making a big sound with bagpipes, fiddles, guitars and a driving rhythm section. Unfortunately the downtempo material don't have the same impact and invention. Nevertheless, watch your backs Runrig!

www.skerryvore.com/

Yearning For A Living

Dan Donnelly & Sonovagun

Dan can sound more sorry for himself than Morrissey when it comes to relationship turmoil. Unfortunately, he doesn't have the charisma of a Morrissey to always carry it off on this set of tame mid-paced rockers. With strong live connections to The Levellers, The Oysterband and Seth Lakeman, it's through his stage shows that his fanbase has been growing. And, it's sunshine and a pint that would probably bring out the best of this album.

www.sonovagun.com/