FolkWorld #56 03/2015

CD & DVD Reviews

Matt Townsend "Matt Townsend & the Wonder of the World"
Eternal Mind; 2014

www.matttownsendmusic.com

This is lovely light folk rock music. Townsend has a sensitive voice showing off vulnerability, even as the music is delivered with restrained conviction. This was produced in Burlington, VT, but fortunately Townsend has moved on from being frozen in, spending long nights staring through icicle blocked windows onto the piles of snow that have built up for months. New England is a cold, cold place these days and his North Carolina setting allows more warmth for him to practice his songwriting craft. There is some pretty nice acoustic guitar work here as well—I don’t want to lose sight of Townsend’s fine skills in addition to these excellent songs.
© David Hintz


Boo Hewerdine "My Name in the Brackets"
Reveal; 2014

Artist Video

www.boohewerdine.net

This is a ‘hits collection’ of sorts from someone who I don’t know much about, so it is as good as place to start for me as any. Boo Hewerdine is English, although he sounds more American with his brand of rootsy folk music. He fronted a band, the Bible and later formed a band with acclaimed finger style guitarist Brooks Williams called State of the Union. There are cuts from these bands and some solo efforts. There is not much difference in any of it, although the songs vary a bit in instrumental density. Hewerdine is a fine songwriter who is easy to latch hold of and listen carefully to his stories and themes. His voice is solid and the music is pleasant with some occasional bite. This is a fine way to enter into his music, of which there is much to explore thereafter.
© David Hintz


Bennett Jackson "Texana"
Own label; 2013

www.bennettjackson.com

Sorry to say that this is just ‘another one of those blues albums’ for me. There is nothing terribly wrong with this, but for me it is yet more decent blues licks that I’ve heard oh so many times. The songs are ok, as they don’t elevate to anything that particularly stands out. He slows it down to country at times, which doesn’t work as well. But then he’ll speed it up to rock proportions, which is quite a bit better and hints at a promising live show.
© David Hintz


Bob Cheevers "On Earth as it is in Austin"
Private Angel; 2014

www.bobcheevers.com

Although a veteran from the Nashville music scene, Bob Cheevers[50] needed to find something fresher and more vibrant, so it was off to Austin. Good choice and maybe it is therefore not too surprising that his voice reminds me a bit of Willie Nelson here. And what is more amazing is that I swear to the fact that I wrote that last sentence prior to the sixth song coming on, entitled ‘You Sound Just like Willie’. His songs are also quite good with just a guitar or two working out some fine lines to wrap around his melodies. Some songs are more successful than others, but this is all a pleasant listen, with the occasional strong highlight.
© David Hintz


Muerte Pan Alley "Clunk & Sputter"
Shoutin’ Abner Pim; 2014

www.muerte-pan.com

Artist Video

I was fearful that after the initial blues sounds, I was in store for yet another reworking of the blues. Well, this Canadian outfit does some of that, but the emphasis is on reworking. They have a lot of creative panache, evident especially in ‘Yalla’, that make for an exciting ride. They have a touch of Jon Spencer, maybe a tad of Reverend Horton, and plenty of Slim Cessna in their approach. There’s still plenty of (literally) foot stomping blues music, too, that is quite recognizable and easy to digest. This is quite fun and should appeal to a variety of blues-rock fans.
© David Hintz


Dave Fields "All In"
FMI Records; 2014

www.davefields.com

OK, here’s more the typical blues rock sound. Fields keeps it simple, but strong and there is more of a blues rock feeling like we had in the late sixties and beyond. The electric guitar cooks up a good din and there is quite a bit of R&B worked into some of these songs as well. And if you can’t get enough versions of ‘Cross Road’ or ‘Black Dog’, here are some more for you. The variety here is what really helps keep things fresh and livelier than the core playing (fine as it is). Certainly, a live show would work well.
© David Hintz


Rhapsoldya "N’int ket deuet a-benn da ziwriziennan ac’hanomp"
Paker Prod, 2014

www.rhapsoldya.org

I believe the title translates to ‘They failed to uproot us…” which does fit what they present musically as this is world beat roots music revved up to punk rock stylings in the same manner of gypsy punk. There definitely is some Breton French thing going on, but probably a lot more that I, in my limited language skills, am not getting through on. Musically, it’s assertive and there is some hip-hop in here with the punk, so expect some rhythmic boldness as well as crunchy guitar riffs.
© David Hintz


Cameron Blake "Alone on the World Stage"
Own label; 2014

www.cameronblakemusic.com

Did you ever notice how few topical folk singers we review here? They are not quite out of style completely, but there are fewer and far between than when Bob Dylan and Phil Ochs were baring their fangs outward or to each other. The topics may not be as crystal clear or agreed upon as they were in the 1960s, but there are many out there worthy of folk songs. Cameron Blake is one Michigan singer songwriter willing to take them on. The great news is that his voice and guitar abilities are also of such quality, that he could be singing the phonebook and be a success. But thankfully, he has broad and personal topics to eloquently set to lyrics, wrapped up by his fine guitar work (with a bit of piano, too). So Folkworld fans, dig into this one and enjoy the rich rewards inside.
© David Hintz


Nick Edward Harris "The Tall Trees"
Own label; 2014

www.nickedwardharris.com

With its violins and percussion supporting the vocals and striking guitars, the first song immediately reminds me of the Mowrey/Watson project Subway. And that is one of the highest compliments I can pay some one as that is one of the more outstanding progressive folk rock albums out there. Some of the vocals remind me of a more assured Nick Drake, but Harris is his own stylist who is working at a quality level worthy of lofty comparisons. Harris may be hiding out in the rural environs of New Zealand, but the world is likely to take notice of this gem he has put out for our listening pleasure.
© David Hintz


Berdon Kirksaether "Ray of Light"
Roller Records, 2010

This record has been out a while, but I am happy to have given it a listen. It is from a Norwegian composer/guitarist. At first, the quality was evident and I thought he might go into a new age direction. But as the record went on, he brought in an array of styles into the songs keeping things not quite rooted in any genre. At times it will sound new age, at others like an intriguing soundtrack, while occasionally flashing roots moves. The guitar work is excellent and it is an interesting album.
© David Hintz


Annalibera "Nevermind I Love You"
Sump Pump Records; 2015

www.annaliberamusic.com

There is actually quite a bit of folk embedded in this pop electronica rocker. Just keep listening and Anna Gebhardt’s ethereal vocals will convince you. This may not be for the traditionalists, but if you like modern forms of rock music, you should give this a listen. I think there is just enough here to stand out from the pack.
© David Hintz


Lost in Desire "100 Grams of your Heart"
Music Obscure; 2014

www.lostindesire.com

No folk here on this five song EP, but rather one of the many post Radiohead bands following that highly influential band. I particularly liked ‘Play’ with a nod to Joy Division in atmosphere and tone. The songs are interesting and the style is powerful and enchanting. This is a good release and I would be interested in following this band.
© David Hintz


Dee Kourtsman "Islands by Bicylcle"
boglach Records; 2014

Artist Video

www.deekourtsman.com

Dee Kourtsman is a Russian guitarist living in Finland. The songs and album all are in the Russian alphabet, but there are English translations for each of the ten song titles. What is more important is the quality of the music and that is quite high for me, fortunately. He performs delicate acoustic guitar folk numbers in between vocal folk-rock outings, some of which deeply rooted in Russian folk style. ‘Marrakesh’ sounds like something from Erkin Koray, which is always a great thing for me. It appears he is gigging regularly in the two countries he’s tied with, but I would like to see him over here some time. His varied songs and styles make for a fine album and would be exciting in a live setting as well.
© David Hintz


Craig Cassler "Back to You"
Own label; 2014

www.craigcassler.com

This is the sort of singer songwriter album that will keep you in a good mood throughout every song. That comes down to a warm vocal manner along with songs that have a welcome melody. Cassler mixes folk and Americana moves into the mix depending on the song and it all comes across smooth and assured. It is pretty hard to not enjoy a record like this on some level. Ergo, it should work for folkies as well as light rockers and those who appreciate song craft.
© David Hintz


Skip & Die "Cosmic Serpents"
Crammed Discs, 2015

www.skipndie.com

This is one sharp world beats album, infused with hip-hop, but sounding quite otherworldly. In fact, I am not even sure which world these guys come from. Well, this is the Internet age, so I see they are a South African-Dutch combo of sorts, working in Europe. They do make the most of their varied roots by placing in all sorts of fascinating melodies and rhythms and concocting modern music that electronica-pop fans can enjoy just as much as people who normally don’t go for electronica-pop. Great diversity with skillful playing makes for a great combination here. Just dig in and see what you think. I’m not sure where it fits into my world, but I know it is very good and original.
© David Hintz


King of the Tramps "Joyful Noise"
Old School Records; 2014

www.kingofthetramps.com

When this record began, I thought it was going to be just another blues-rock outing, although perhaps with a heartland rural rock sensibility. But this quintet quickly moved into a highly moving gnarly rock style reminiscent of the best of Skynyrd or ZZ Top, especially in the song ‘War’. Not every song was quite up to these standards, but on the whole this was a fun rocking record that was made for weekend evenings. This band certainly would be a swift kick to your posterior in the clubs and this album will keep me awake until that fateful night.
© David Hintz


Naama Kates "Souled"
Own label; 2014

www.naamakates.com

Some times an actress, this time a singer songwriter, Naama Kates is putting her talent to the test. She succeeds here, even though there is not much folk in this modern electronic pop album. The pop music is a bit dark at times and although I am not sure I agree with the Kate Bush comparisons, I see why people could come up with that. I like the strength in a song like ‘Run’ and I wish more songs were in that vein. It gets a bit cute at times for me, but there is still plenty of skill for people to dig into. Modern rock fans, have a listen. As for her acting, I will have to get back to you on that.
© David Hintz


Finnegan’s Hell "Drunk, Sick and Blue"
Heptown Records; 2014

www.finneganshell.com

This Swedish band formed in 2010 for as they say, there is still a need for kick-ass Celtic punk in this world. I agree with their mission statement and appreciate what they bring to the table. They are some where in between the Pogues and the Drop Kick Murphys, lacking the songwriting of the former and having nearly the energy of the latter. They do a cover of ‘Galway Races’ that the Pogues once did and it still sounds cool when it’s done with pace. These guys have all of that plus the power and the clarity to bring out the crazy Celtic punk style. It is a bit too derivative at times with ‘Drunken Christmas’ being the poor man’s ‘Fairytale in New York’. Yet while this will work best in the pubs, these ten songs will have you rocking and bopping along.
© David Hintz


New Kingston "Kingston City"
Easy Star; 2014

www.newkingstonmusic.com

These Rastas from Brooklyn cook up some highly enjoyable reggae music. There are real hooks within the expected rhythms with some fascinating songs and excellent vocals throughout. They seem to have brought the music forward a bit, but it is still well rooted in the traditions we all want to hear when we listen to a good reggae band. There are some guests on various songs, which add a nice variety as well. And in one of the better puns I have heard in a while, the first song was mixed by Umberto Echo. Whether you laugh or groan, I still recommend you listen to this song and the eleven that follow if you want to hear some fresh vibrant reggae music.
© David Hintz


Fairway "Time"
Own label; 2014

www.fairwaymusic.at

I am not sure how well this Austrian band speaks English, but it can be a challenge to write in your second language (not that I would really know as I would bet everything I have that their English is a hundred times better than my German). This band has taken the approach of taking English language poetry covering the centuries from John Donne to Sylvia Plath and putting it to their original music. They must know something about English and certainly plenty about music as they create a lyrical flow in these songs that is not as stilted as similar type poetry to music projects. The music is fresh and vibrant and follows a progressive folk style like a lighter Spirogyra perhaps (I do see the word Canterbury amidst the German language at their website, so the Canterbury progressive scene likely means something to them). There is a slightly more Celtic rock style in their music. I quite enjoy it, although it may be a bit light on the folk for some readers.
© David Hintz


Markus James "Head for the Hills"
Firenze Records; 2014

Artist Video

Markus James may be playing with some classic Mississippi blues musicians, but this is no run of the mill workout of blues standards. James’ songs and style has loads of creativity and the fine musicians know how to enhance things rather than run through the clichés. There is a worldliness and class to this record that should easily bring in folk and rock fans who don’t listen to a lot of the blues. It is great to hear creativity work so smoothly and be so easily accessible. Obviously, this record is highly recommended.
© David Hintz


Eliza Neals "Breaking and Entering"
Own label; 2014

www.elizaneals.com

I made the mistake of listening to this scorching blues workout early in the morning. This should be heard late at night (or early in the morning if that is ending your night). Neals has a scratchy powerful voice and her guitarists throw subtlety out the window with some screaming runs. It was almost too over the top in the blues standards mode gone out of control, but then a song like ‘Jekyll and a Hound’ brought in some excellent songwriting. This is a mixed bag of an album, but the highlights are worthwhile and even the rest is all worth a listen. Just be more ready for it than I was.
© David Hintz


Balkun Brothers "Redrova"
Own label; 2014

www.balkunmusic.com

The two Balkun brothers are on guitar/vocals and drums with an unrelated bass player. The three of them cook up a mighty stew of blues-rock that has a decent mix of classic blues and modern rock style folded in to keep things lively and rocking. This is a decent record, although I thought it got a little less interesting as it wore on. But they would be fun live and if they keep things spirited and push the envelope a bit more, they will do just fine.
© David Hintz


Árstíðir "Hvel"
Broken Silence, 2014

Artist Video

www.arstidir.com

This one begins in a strong atmospheric 4AD fashion, although as the songs keep coming, they sharpen into focus beyond the dreamy opening. There are violins adding Curved Air like intensity to the usual rock instruments, although the vocals keep things smooth and reflective. The band hails from Iceland and they do seem to fit in well with the many fine musicians operating on that island in recent years (you know who they are). Arstidir ultimately keep the reins in and deliver a mannered dreamy pop rock album that is lush and personal; and like a good book, it is a pleasure to curl up in a comfortable chair and spend some time with.
© David Hintz


Chords ‘n’ Coffee "Back to my Tree House"
Own label; 2014

Artist Video

www.chordsncoffee.com

This German band has an intense folk style. It is not exactly folk rock, although there is a beat and it fits well in that category. There is almost a quiet punkrock like intensity to the singing. Yet there is a delicate acoustic guitar touch and an instrumental grace to the music. The songs are deep and intriguing. So if you like a slight variation to the tried and true, give this band a listen. They will make you think a little.
© David Hintz


Anne Sumner "These Hours"
Own label; 2014

www.annesumnermusic.com

We have some attractive and pure folk singing here from Croydon. Acoustic guitar and rich voice presenting original songs still works with the folks that have the talent to do it and the guts to lay it out for the public. Anne Sumner has a classic style that will work for traditionalists and modernists alike. She balances the strength of her voice with a sensitivity, not unlike Sandy Denny. The guitar is light, but there are some nice substantial patterns that are more than the simple chords. Even without any different arrangements, I found myself carefully listening to all fifteen songs. That is the mark of a strong folk album.
© David Hintz


MissinCat "Wirewalker"
Revolver, 2015

www.missincat.com

Artist Video

Thoroughly modern with cute voice that thankfully does not grate as MissinCat has fine range and flexes into more classic patterns than those of her precocious contemporaries. The music is an intriguing European pop style with multiple influences from what I can tell. That makes some sense, as she is Italian born and operating out of Berlin. Somehow she manages to balance the warm and cool of those environments in her songs. The style works well throughout the whole of the album and some of the songs have some really fine hooks that should have fans of thoughtful pop music quite happy. ‘Don’t Let Her’ is my personal favorite of the poppier songs, while ‘Hole in a Sheepskin’ had a lovely contemplative vibe. There are some subtle little chills in this music, something you don’t always get, but I always welcome.
© David Hintz


Peter Crawford "Six Strings… Keep me Sane"
Own label; 2011

www.peter-crawford.com

This record is a few years old, but his web site reveals he is still active and on the Songs & Whispers label, so apparently those six strings have kept his sanity in check. And as you may guess from the title, he has some intensity in his music. It’s folk or folk rock for the most part, but he does have an intense strike on his guitar and his vocals can go up a notch or two when the moment is right. He does vary the range and intensity over the album, so it has a decent variety of songs. The effort is ever present and with enough songs being both accessible and interesting, Crawford should attract a number of fans.
© David Hintz


Sarah McQuaid "Walking into White"
Waterbug Records; 2015

Artist Video

www.sarahmcquaid.com

If you enjoy the folk renaissance of recent years, you owe it to yourself to look into Sarah McQuaid. This is her fourth album, and although it is the first I have heard, I have quickly realized I have missed out on something good. I enjoy her deep resonant voice working with intricate arrangements of sharp fully developed folk rock sounds. The overall feeling is something in between the Unthanks and the Smoke Fairies, both of which I listen to regularly. And although she is based in England, her roots from Madrid to Chicago make this an even more universal style than most. The quality is there throughout and you will certainly find plenty of great songs to latch onto on this fine record.
© David Hintz


Sarah McQuaid "Walking into White"
Waterbug Records, 2015

Artist Video

www.sarahmcquaid.com

Cornwall, UK, based singer/songwriter Sarah McQuaid (vocals, acoustic guitar) travelled to Cornwall, New York, to record her forth solo album with co-producers Jeremy Backofen and Adam Pierce. She invited well selected guest musicians to accompany her and her cousin and multi-instrumentalist Pierce.
Sarah was inspired by Arthur Ransome’s series “Swallows and Amazons” to write “Where the wind decides to blow”, a rhythmic song about two children attaching a sail to their sled to glide on the frozen lake. Pierce creates the intoxicating rock pace, Kivie Cahn-Lipman plays the cello and Sarah sings and plays guitar, one of my favourites. The hauntingly beautiful instrumental track “I am grateful for what I have” is performed on two guitars and cello, showcasing Dan Lippel on classical guitar. Sarah’s a Capella performance “Sweetness and pain” have been split in three parts and scattered amongst other tracks as a sort of interlude. Gareth Flowers accompanies Sarah on the bluesy title track with brilliant trumpet sketches. Other highlights are “Jackdaws rising”, Sarah’s 4/4 bar song is accompanied by Adele Schulz’s harmony vocals and stomps and handclaps in 5/4 beat, and “Yellowstone” driven by classical guitar and Cajun samba rhythm. The album ends with Ewan MacColl’s love song “The first time ever I saw your face”, Sarah performed it solo only accompanied by her fine guitar playing.
Sarah’s new album is strongly influenced by her co-producers, who never work with folk artists, thus the outcome sounds more like Joni Mitchell than British folk music.
© Adolf „gorhand“ Goriup



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