ALBUMS 2016
week.50
"Hole Hearted : A Revival In God's Country" (Paraply Records)
"Det låter bra, solisterna sjunger oftast med både inlevelse och hållen ton och musikerna hanterar både mer traditionella instrument och de mer countryobligatoriska som dobro, fiol, banjo och mandolin utan bekymmer, sammantaget en sprittande glad liveplatta från en konsert där jag gärna varit närvarande....."
"Jag skulle ha varit där, Borås är inte så förtvivlat långt bort, men nu har jag åtminstone musiken att lyssna till hemma. Den hade varit bra att ha tidigare i år när jag var bruten till både kropp och själ. Countrymusik i kyrkan är inget nytt, det är en naturlig plats för den. Inte heller i Sverige, desto ovanligare att man kan vara 100% säker på att de som sjunger verkligen tror på det de sjunger, det blir så mycket bättre då. Bäst i mina öron de många fina tolkningarna av Emmylou Harris låtar, till och med de svårare lockar till mer lyssning. Och naturligtvis de traditionella, något bland det finaste som finns om vi pratar kristen musik. Mer sån’t, tack!"
"Hästjazz i Guds hus? Javisst!"
- Christian Naumanen / Borås Tidning -
week.49
Sharon Goldman "Kol Isha" (A Woman's Voice)
"Sharon Goldman is a fine New Jersey based singer songwriter, and on her new album, 'Kol Isha (A Woman's Voice)', she offers up some intelligent, inventive storytelling....."
- Kenneth Bremer / Blue Desert -
“In Jewish tradition, women were not allowed to sing in public in the presence of men, that would now be a real pity, since Jewish rooted singer songwriter Sharon Goldman has such a clear and beautiful voice, on her new record ‘Kol Isha’, she is telling us stories about her Jewish past and their rituals and prayers on nicely orchestrated music.“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"Sharon Goldman's 'Kol Isha (A Woman’s Voice)', takes her artistry in a new and unique direction, she has dug deep into her orthodox jewish childhood and emerged with a bold, imaginative song cycle that is by turns deeply feminist, conflicted and yearning, tracing her own journey to find her voice as a passionate woman, a lifelong questioner, and a constant seeker."
- Arnaud Leger / Westcoast Rendezvous -
week.48
Elijah Ford & The Bloom "As You Were" (Nine Mile Records)
"Elijah Ford & The Bloom's ‘As You Were’ contains solid rock songs with a catchy and poppy edge, and the talented son of former Black Crowes-guitarist Marc Ford clearly inherited many of the musical qualities from his father, and may look forward to a promising career.....”
- Eric Schuurmans / Rootstime -
"Songwriter Elijah Ford brings us pop rock with a strong southern feel, but goes way over the borders of this genre."
- Patrick van de Wiele / Keys & Chords -
"All together, Elijah Ford & The Bloom’s ’As You Were’ is a rockin’ record, quite diverse, featuring superb vocal work from Elijah, do not miss this release…..”
- Gabor Kleinbloesem / Strutterzine -
"Elijah Ford & The Bloom's new album, 'As You Were', pushes the pop rock sound of the 'Ashes' EP into groovier, more hook filled heights."
- Kenneth Bremer / Blue Desert -
"The sound of the week!"
- Benny Sörensen / Musik Fra Kyst Til Kyst -
week.47
Mary Beth Cross "Feels Like Home" (MBC Productions)
"Mary Beth Cross is an award winning singer, songwriter and musician, and her music is a soulful, intimate acoustic mix of original and classic tunes....."
- Kenneth Bremer / Blue Desert -
"A feast for lovers of folk and bluegrass, this new EP with rural tracks....."
- Patrick van de Wiele / Keys & Chords -
“With a clever mix of her own songs and carefully selected cover versions, Denver based folk artist Mary Beth Cross has created a very pleasing bluegrass inspired mini album called ‘Feels Like Home’, and indeed, it does!“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
week.46
Keegan McInroe "Uncouth Pilgrims" (Keegan McInroe Music)
"‘Uncouth Pilgrims’ is Texas based singer songwriter Keegan McInroe’s 4th studio album, and the 14 songs on show here, deliver some great storytelling and musicianship....."
- Andrew Higgins / Americana UK -
"Anyone with a hankering for some good old fashioned Texan singer songwriting in the fashion of Michael Murphy or Terry Allen would be well advised to check out this new album from Keegan McInroe."
- Paul Kerr / Blabber 'N' Smoke -
"With a somewhat laconic style and languid vocal delivery, even when he’s driving his music hard, Keegan McInroe interprets a mix of american country, blues and folk into a distinctive desirable rootsy feel that rocks and pervades his new album, nothing rushed or hurried, straight from the heart and sometimes embracing a gentle edge, sometimes rough and ready, this is earthy music that evokes warm nights, smoky bars and a foot tapping audience wholly absorbed, from the quieter side of his serious observations, to the more gutsy view of life, ‘Uncouth Pilgrims’ takes you on a journey down the back roads where you’ll find music that comes from somewhere visceral and primal."
"This album clocks in at over an hour, but such is the diverse nature of the production and of the Writing, that there is enough variety throughout to sustain interest, and on second thought, given all that has gone into the album, maybe the cover is exactly right, and it would be uncouth to admit otherwise."
- Stephen Rapid / Lonesome Highway -
"Back to the good old days with 14 superb songs in old country, blues and rock style....."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
"’Uncouth Pilgrims’ is the 3rd solo album from the former Catfish Whiskey frontman Keegan McInroe, from his home base in Fort Worth, Texas, he brings several stories that are drawn from his personal life and his imaginary environment, for this objective, he uses very different music styles and rhythms, and what makes this record so special, is that the listener believes every word that he sings in these songs about commitment and introspectiveness.”
"The sound of the week!"
- Benny Sörensen / Musik Fra Kyst Til Kyst -
week.45
Lynne Hanson & The Good Intentions "7 Deadly Spins"
(Lynne Hanson)
"The Canadian singer songwriter Lynne Hanson refers to her sound as 'porch music with a little Texas red dirt', which essentially translates as an Ottawa Lucinda Williams, with a pinch of Gillian Welch....."
- Mike Davies / Fatea Magazine -
"Overall '7 Deadly Spins' posts notice that Lynne Hanson is on a bit of a roll and is definitely not to be messed with....."
- Paul Kerr / Blabber 'N' Smoke -
"These 7 songs are all around a Southern music theme of the murder ballad, with halloween round the corner perhaps?"
- Patrick van de Wiele / Keys & Chords -
"Lynne Hanson’s songs are like a favourite pair of jeans, they’re faded and worn through in spots, with a bit of honestly acquired grit ground into the seams....."
- Branimir Lokner / Time Machine Music -
week.44
Someday Jacob "It Might Take A While" (Haldern Pop/Rough Trade)
"Songs like deep valleys, mysterious and beautiful, well seasoned countryside egg yoke, truly wonderful music.....”
- Kenneth Bremer / Blue Desert -
"This new album by the German band Someday Jacob balances sometimes between the Californian westcoast rock of the 70's and the acoustic and electric folk."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
“The first half of the album ‘It Might Take A While’ from German folkrock band Someday Jacob was a real discovery of promising musical talent and timeless songs."
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
week.43
Giulia Millanta "Moonbeam Parade" (Ugly Cat Music)
"Giulia Millanta is an Italian living in Texas and this is her 5th album, she makes flexible americana and has a magical voice to boot, her talent really shines here, this is a great album, and it's well worth a listen....."
- Anna Maria Stjärnell / Luna Kafé -
”There’s a lot of pain oozing out of the songs here, an ideal accompaniment for a night in brooding with a bottle of whisky as a companion.”
- Mike Davies / Roots & Branches -
"This is a strong album, the music's great, played by the best of Austin’s musicians, but the focus goes to the lyrics, Giulia Millanta write songs with a universal feeling, themes like hard luck, pride, failure, misery, getting back up again and starting all over again, she tells in short stories without being depressive and without negativity of sarcasm, these are uplifting songs, Giulia Millanta released a strong and beautiful album, straight from the heart!"
- Peter Jacobs / Keys & Chords -
“On her 5th album, ‘Moonbeam Parade’, Italian raised and Austin based singer songwriter Giulia Millanta delivers 12 heartfelt americana songs that were created with the crème-de-la-crème of musicians from the local Texan music industry, and moreover, her cover version of David Bowie’s classic ‘Rock ‘N’ Roll Suicide’ in Italian language and in a duet with Giant Sand-icon Howe Gelb is just superb!“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
week.42
The Coal Porters "No. 6" (Prima Recordings)
“Although playing bluegrass, The Coal Porters have once again been exploring new musical boundaries, they like to face new challenges and can evolve easily in totally new directions with their sound, and this great band is at it since more than 25 years, and can easily continue to perform for another 25 years.....“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"With their mix of folk, bluegrass and indie, The Coal Porters creates a new sound that they call ‘alternative bluegrass’."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
"The Coal Porters has demonstrated the power of fiddle, mandolin, banjo, acoustic guitar and doghouse bass, when matched with sweet harmonies and strong melodies, and taken this sound around the world."
- Kenneth Bremer / Blue Desert -
"The sound of the week!"
- Benny Sörensen / Musik Fra Kyst Til Kyst -
"A melancholy pleasure, the best there is right now!"
week.41
Sue Sergel "Beneath The Willow Tree" (Black Molly Productions)
“British born, but now living in the Swedish city of Gothenburg, the singer songwriter Sue Sergel has been shifting more and more away from blues music in the direction of folk, country and americana on her recent album, and the final song is honest and heartbreaking and has all the potential to become a folk classic.....“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"People who love pure folk music and americana, and like intimate slow and relaxed songs, will get really hooked on this CD....."
- Peter Jacobs / Keys & Chords -
"Sue Sergel, born a stone’s throw from Penny Lane in Liverpool, but a Gothenburger for many years, has a solid reputation on the Swedish blues scene, with her expressive musicality she became one of Sweden’s foremost blues voices and interpreters in the 80’s and 90’s, a favorite of the critics, she has performed with many established names and sung all kinds of blues, from heavy electric Chicago blues to classic piano stuff....."
- Kenneth Bremer / Blue Desert -
week.40
Rami & The Whale (Wooded Shrine Recordings)
"The vocals are very much the catalyst for the songs on this album, and Rami sings in a plaintive and sweet voice, the mood is one of contemplation and reflection, and the understated playing and rich melody constantly impress....."
- Paul McGee / Lonesome Highway -
"Rami & The Whale is the project of Swedish singer songwriter Rasmus Blomqvist, who sounds like the next big thing in the singer songwriter world....."
- Gabor Kleinbloesem / Strutterzine -
“After the split of British rockband Noah & The Whale in 2015, the Swedish singer songwriter Rasmus Blomqvist picked up that name for his musical project Rami & The Whale, which ended up in 12 songs on a CD with the same title, it's a dark and rather sad sounding album with the songs ‘Poorhouse’ and ‘I Am Rami’ as the outstanding tracks.....“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
week.39
Jenai Huff "Color Wheel" (Jenai Huff Music)
"If there were a category to place this sublime artist into, then it would be jazz folk, the wonderfully crafted 9 songs included here are a real joy, and the atmosphere created by the production is one of quiet calm and a confident maturity....."
- Paul McGee / Lonesome Highway -
"The sound of the week!"
- Benny Sörensen / Musik Fra Kyst Til Kyst -
"'Color Wheel' is Jeani Huff's 3rd album, and once again she financed it herself, and with a great soulful voice and smooth jazzy sounds, she must by now reach more interested people, so let’s hope she will gain a label deal soon, because without a doubt, this is a strong album you can easily put on, especially during romantic late nighters."
- Gabor Kleinbloesem / Strutterzine -
"This is a collection of nice songs where Jenai Huff expresses her feelings."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
“In 2012, we awarded a ‘cum laude’ to the debut album ‘Transitions’ by American singer songwriter Jenai Huff, her sophomore record ‘Color Wheel’ is of equal high quality and clearly deserves the same recognition, both for her 7 self penned compositions, as well as for her excellent cover versions of ‘Old Man’ from the psychedelic rock band Love, and ‘What’s Going On’ from soul legend Marvin Gaye, this album is highly recommended for the late, relaxing and romantic evening hours.“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"Jenai Huff's songs are thought provoking, and like her lyrics, her melodies often take a twist adding interest and originality to stories of life and love, and social commentary, her pure and soulful voice touches people and stirs their souls, her style is a little bit folk, a little bit country, with a touch of jazz and r'n'b."
- Arnaud Leger / Westcoast Rendezvous -
week.38
Kaurna Cronin "Southern Loss" (Songs & Whispers)
"With grand storytelling, folk jams and a lyrical sincerity beyond his years, Kaurna Cronin’s unique folk blend and moving performances have been capturing audiences throughout Europe and Australia, establishing this young singer songwriter as an international sensation....."
- Kenneth Bremer / Blue Desert -
“22 years young Australian singer songwriter Kaurna Cronin hails from the South Australian capital Adelaide, and in the songs on his new album 'Southern Loss' the influences of his favourite musicians Bob Dylan and Paul Simon can easily be retrieved, to us, however, his core comparison is to be made with Tom McRae and that should be regarded as a major compliment.”
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"Kaurna Cronin is a wandering storyteller, as part of a new breed of Australian artists he is constantly redeveloping the way music is written and shared globally."
- Arnaud Leger / Westcoast Rendezvous -
week.37
Libby Koch "Just Move On" (Berkalin Records)
"'Just Move On' is a daring and lively album underpinned by Libby Koch's undoubted enthusiasm, deep-rooted country mood and sharp songwriting skills....."
- Mike Ritchie / Fatea Magazine -
"Libby Koch’s songs are great, and though she isn’t quite the finished article, I believe, if she continues to work and hang around with the likes of the players on the record, and 8 time Grammy winner, Nashville producer Bil Vorndick, she soon will be."
- Maurice Hope / Flyin' Shoes -
"Country music comes in many formats these days, and being the snob I am, I hardly recognise most of it, so when I heard the twanging guitar and then Libby’s emotion dripping voice on the opening track, 'Just Move On', I knew I was going to be in a tear stained heaven, which is the country music I love."
- Alan Harrison / The Rocking Magpie -
"What we have here is a very nice sounding album that is also quite diverse, with really great vocals, and a nice band feel sound, thanks to the participating musicians."
- Gabor Kleinbloesem / Strutterzine -
"A great mix of traditional country songs, and songs that blend country, rock and folk....."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
“Instead of chosing a career as lawyer, Houston based singer songwriter Libby Koch selected to go for a much more unsecure musical route, and all her albums demonstrate that she did make the right choices and that her future in the world of female country music singers looks very bright and prosperous, her latest album 'Just Move On' will help her to open more doors in the USA, but certainly also abroad.“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"Describing Americana singer songwriter Libby Koch as 'country meets soulful', Free Press Houston perfectly pegs the artistry captured on her new album, 'Just Move On'."
- Arnaud Leger / Westcoast Rendezvous -
"The sound of the week!"
- Benny Sörensen / Musik Fra Kyst Til Kyst -
"The sound of the week!"
- Benny Sörensen / Skagensexpressen -
"Americana artist Libby Koch has made a nice new album, her delivery is just perfect, it's a mighty fine record."
- Anna Maria Stjärnell / Luna Kafé -
week.36
Jaime Michaels "Once Upon A Different Time" (Appaloosa Records)
“’Once upon a time ’, that's how most traditional fairytales are starting, and how these stories continues can now be heard on ‘Once Upon A Different Time’, the 10th album of folk troubadour and songwriter Jaime Michaels, he is singing about true life experiences and some made up fantasies in the 11 tracks of his excellent new album.....“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"Ten clever storytelling folk songs in true troubadour style."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
"Right on schedule, Jaime Michaels is poised to release his 10th album in the past 20 years, this one is called 'Once Upon A Different Time', with all songs written by Jaime, and mostly new tunes, with a couple of re-recorded favorites."
- Kenneth Bremer / Blue Desert -
week.35
Annie Keating "Trick Star" (8th Street Studios)
"Annie Keating's 'Track Star' is classic Keating, her voice often tender, almost childlike in its vulnerability at times, the songs clusters of fully realised images and emotions....."
- Paul Kerr / Blabber 'N' Smoke -
"The mysterious sounding voice of Annie Keating is the driving force behind the songs of love, pain, pleasure and yearn for freedom."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
“There are these days so many female singer songwriters in the spotlights, and this makes it even less understandable that Brooklyn based Annie Keating still did not get the international attention and fame that she deserves, may her fabulously beautiful 7th album ‘Trick Star’ be the start of it for this sympathetic and great vocalist.”
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"The sound of the week!"
- Benny Sörensen / Musik Fra Kyst Til Kyst -
week.34
Robert Rex Waller Jr "Fancy Free" (Western Seed Record Company)
"Each listener will find their own loves and loathes, although nothing here should deserve the latter opinion, mr Waller has produced the album with Marc Doten and they ring the changes across the songs, some are stripped back, while others offer a more cosmic sound....."
- Stephen Rapid / Lonesome Highway -
"I sincerely hope Robert Waller can manage to squeeze, in between his records with I See Hawks In LA to make another record like this!"
- Maurice Hope / Americana UK -
"I’m sure that fans of I See Hawks In LA will be keen to check this out, and I’ll be programming the better songs for repeat listenings as they are very good indeed!"
- Paul Kerr / Blabber 'N' Smoke -
"The lead singer of a band that NBT cherishes, I See Hawks In LA, has released a whole album of cover versions aided and abetted by members of that band and a whole host of other alt country and americana luminaries."
- Martin Smit / NBT Music Radio -
"An album filled with well known and lesser known songs, covered in a clever way by the warm baritone voice of Robert Rex Waller Jr....."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
"“For his debut solo album, I See Hawks In LA lead vocalist and songwriter Robert Rex Waller, Jr has made a surprisingly variating and pleasant selection of 13 songs to cover, they range over a 50 years period and are known hits from famous artists like Neil Young, Bob Dylan, The Hollies and The Kinks, but there are also compositions from much less known singer-songwriters like Utah Phillips, Mike Stinson or The Oak Ridge Boys, ‘Fancy Free’ has become a fabulous and excellent covers album that will please many fans of good music.“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
week.33
My Girl The River "This Ain't No Fairytale" (Super Tiny Records)
"Kris and Joe Hughes of My Girl The River have created a gorgeous collection of songs, showing a depth of range and storytelling that only some artists get to experience and some music lovers get to enjoy."
- Arnaud Leger / Westcoast Rendezvous -
“With her debut album ‘This Ain’t No Fairytale’, My Girl The River aka Kris Wilkinson Hughes will soon be able to obtain a place in the gallery of promising newcomers in the world of americana music, which is concentrated in Nashville, TN, and hopefully, we don’t need to wait too long time for record number 2 from this kd lang soundalike.“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"A serene album which brings americana and folk songs about anecdotes, fables and moods....."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
"Alt country, folk, a little jazz and americana are nicely blended here, this is a professional high quality recording that can easily be recommended....."
- Gabor Kleinbloesem / Strutterzine -
"From Nashville comes this fine singer songwriter, Kris Wilkinson Hughes operating under her evocative band name, no fairy tale indeed, as her songs conjure up expressive imagery of person and place, her voice has a rich tone that is easy to listen to over a long player and her band is Nashville Sharp, without the cornball country moves, instead it expresses a more worldly sound, americana based, but broad in scope, it should leave you much to reflect on after a thorough listen."
"This is a new beginning to a hopefully happy ever after, may there be many more last songs to come....."
"Virtually every song hits its mark, the playing is exemplary, and I think you can tell by now that I'm enamoured of the lyrics, put all that together and you have that which makes a great album."
- Jonathan Aird / Americana UK -
week.32
Clarence Bucaro "Pendulum" (20/20 Records)
"Clarence Bucaro after 9 previous albums should be making some headway in terms of recognition, and judging by the overall consistency shown here on the new album 'Pendulum', one can only hope that some of that might just swing his way....."
- Stephen Rapid / Lonesome Highway -
"Clarence Bucaro's voice and music has been described as being like warm molasses, I suggest you spread him thickly over your ears."
- Mike Davies / Fatea Magazine -
"Clarence Bucaro has an americana singer songwriter style that is quite popular these days, but with at least a few songs that stand out from the pack, in fact, he’s written my 2nd favorite song about eye color, ‘Emerald Eyes’, losing out only to Grant Hart’s brilliant ‘Green Eyes’."
“Brooklyn singer songwriter Clarence Bucaro can’t do anything wrong in our eyes, we are fans from the first hour, since his debut album ‘Sweet Corn’ in 2002, and his latest release ‘Pendulum’ confirms once again our great trust in the qualities of this artist, and that also colleagues musicians show lots of respect can be concluded from the fantastic duet ‘Strangers’ that he brings on this record with country star Allison Moorer.“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"Clarence Bucaro’s 'Pendulum', the new album from the Brooklyn-based singer songwriter, is a vivid set of new compositions combining beautiful craftsmanship with heartfelt intimacy."
- Arnaud Leger / Westcoast Rendezvous -
week.31
Auburn "Love & Promises" (Scarlet Records Ltd)
"British singer Liz Lenten is showing her creativity and skills as songwriter by delivering 12 new songs on ‘Love & Promises’, her 4th album in merely 5 years, the recording of it took place for the 3rd time in Nashville, TN, with local session musicians and producer Thomm Jutz.....”
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"The fragile whispering voice of Liz Lenten characterizes the sound of this album, and this is an album that contains both Americana and intimate songs."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
"Quantity has not dimished quality, as Thomm Jutz production, his Nashville backing crew's soulful input, and Liz Lenten's rootsy, intimate songs, delivered in her unique vocal style, has resulted in another transatlantic triumph."
- David Innes / R2 Rock'N'Reel -
”Start to finish the allure of ‘Love & Promises’ remains strong, the temptation is so inviting you cannot refuse, this album will hold anyone that hears it, there’s a subtle allure that will not be denied.”
week.30
Lazy Afternoon "Whatever!" (Artache)
"The debut album from Bo Ahlbertz and Swedish band Lazy Afternoon contains 13 original songs in a strong mixture of americana, with influences from country, cajun, tex mex, rock and Irish folk....."
- Patrick van de Wiele / Keys & Chords -
“To hear new tex mex music from a Swedish band was in fact pretty surprising, but Bo Ahlbertz and his band Lazy Afternoon are providing several good tunes in this style on their first album ‘Whatever!’, with Texas Tornados clearly as influencing band, these guys have delivered an excellent album.“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"Artists Of The Week!"
"Artists Of The Week!"
- Benny Sörensen / Skagensexpressen -
week.29
Tawny Ellis "Ghosts Of The Low Country" (The Muscle Shoals Sessions)
"It's a pity Tawny Ellis didn't have time to lay down more than these four tracks, but this just proves the saying that good things often come in small packages....."
- Mike Davies / Fatea Magazine -
"Tawny Ellis has a phenomenal voice that knows how to bring country, blues and soul in a catchy way....."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
"For the recording of the four songs on 'Ghosts Of The Low Country', American singer songwriter Tawny Ellis went to the famous and legendary FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, where she brings two of her own new compositions and two cover versions, 'Desparate Tonight' from Athens, GA, based band Five-Eight, next to country legend Patsy Cline's classic 'Walking After Midnight'."
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"This CD sounds exceptional, these four songs are pure beauty, everything sounds perfect, the vocals, the sound, the musicians, the songs, it also shows that only four exceptional recordings on an EP can be a lot better than ten on an LP, just to make the right numbers, here Tawny made the right artistic, musical choices, she’s got a high sense of good taste, she is pure talent, we really need artists like her…..
- Mike Penard / Radio I.S.A. FM -
week.28
The Mystix Live "Rhythm & Roots" (Mystix Eyes)
"The Mystix specializes in bringing us a great mix of blues and country songs, their 6th record is a live album with 4 self penned songs and 15 cover versions of blues and country classics from Steve Earle, Bob Dylan, Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, John Lee Hooker and others, this is a great journey through the amazing history of music.....”
- Eric Schuurmans / Rootstime -
"The way The Mystix gives these well known songs a pure roots treatment is spectacular, like you hear the songs of Dylan, Hooker, Perkins and Cash here, you never heard them before, need I still say that this is an absolute must have?"
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
"The sound of the week!"
- Benny Sörensen / Musik Fra Kyst Til Kyst -
week.27
Eli Barsi "Portrait Of A Cowgirl" (Red Truck International)
"Although she grew out of being a cowgirl, Canadian singer songwriter Eli Barsi can still perfectly describe the daily life in the rural countryside in these 12 songs on her 13th album ‘Portrait Of A Cowgirl’, and in this very specific genre, this album will be able to count on a lot of appreciation from the ‘awards’ giving music society....."
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"'Portrait Of A Cowgirl' is must have country album from Canadian beauty Eli Barsi, and don’t forget to check out her site as well, since Eli is into other things as well."
"Life as a farm girl, rural feel and the associated lifestyle, passion for the prairie and wildlife, inspired Eli Barsi for these 12 beautiful country roots and western swing songs."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
"Barsi is an artist with a string of releases under her belt and one I have not encountered previously, and the Canadian roots and country scene is full of artists who tend not to receive much recognition outside their homeland, but Barsi’s experience and talents shine on this album, which deals with themes related to farm and ranch Life."
- Stephen Rapid / Lonesome Highway -
"There's nothing new here, but Eli Bari's undeniably accomplished in her chosen genre, and the album sounds great cranked up and cruising, although it would probably help if you had a few hundred miles of wide open space to do it in."
- Mike Davies / Fatea Magazine -
"The artist of the week!"
- Benny Sörensen / Skagensexpressen -
week.26
Love On Drugs "I Think I'm Alone Now" (Paraply Records)
"Love On Drugs', 8 track and 25 minutes long, new album 'I Think I'm Alone Now' is a well balanced mix of catchy guitar pop and more low key country flavored songs....."
- Kenneth Bremer / Blue Desert -
"Nice and catchy, with simple accompaniment brought pop and folk songs, by this Swedish singer songwriter and guitarist."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
“Just 8 songs and 25 minutes of fluent folk, pop and Americana tunes on his debut album ‘I Think I’m Alone Now’, that is all what is needed to convince us of the potential which harbours in young Swedish singer songwriter Thomas Pontén and his new project Love On Drugs.“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
week.25
Stone Cupid "The Cardinal" (Stone Cupid Music)
“Whether she sings a ballad or a country rocker, or tells a true story, Stone Cupid's singer songwriter Julie Christensen is always very solid and, above all, herself…..“
- Eric Schuurmans / Rootstime -
"Fans of Julie Christensen's vibrating and overacting voice, supplemented with heavy rock guitars, will be satisfied with 'The Cardinal'."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
"Even when Stone Cupid are cruising in a comfort zone, there's no denying Julie Christensen's voice stirs the blood, something Leonard Cohen would unreservedly endorse, which leads to mention of the album's hidden bonus track, a terrific version of 'Anthem', for the most part accompanied by just brushed drums and a simple resonant guitar, a song she originally sang on Cohen's 'The Future', and here she does him proud."
- Mike Davies / Fatea Magazine -
week.24
Rod Melancon "LA 14" (Blue Elan Records)
"There are a million comparisons I can make, but I won’t, 'cause Rod Melancon has the talent to be a big star in our small pond, and you heard it here first....."
- Alan Harrison / The Rocking Magpie -
"The sound of the week!"
- Benny Sörensen / Musik Fra Kyst Til Kyst -
"I can not wait to discover Rod Melancon new full lenght release, it will be great fun….."
- Philip Varhaege / Keys & Chords -
“Rod Melancon’s new EP ‘LA 14’ refers to the famous Louisiana State Highway 14, and this ‘cajun cowboy’ presents 5 songs in music styles, country, blues, alt rock and americana, which should make you find anything you wish for, and also makes us look out for his forthcoming new full length CD.”
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"With the helping hands of established producer Brian Whelan, Rod Melancon with his versions of swampy country blues roots style, sing about South Lousiana nights, inner emotionals and human relations."
- Branimir Lokner / Time Machine Music -
week.23
Allison Dietz "Pretty Lies" (Allison Dietz Music)
"Allison Dietz sings in a voice both naive and experienced, like honeysuckle and heartache, or sunshine and sorrow, she's equal parts Loretta Lynn, Ford F-150, and Johnny Walker Red....."
- Arnaud Leger / Westcoast Rendezvous -
“With a typical voice that fits several music styles, Allison Dietz has put her emotions and personal experiences in love and life in the ten songs that she collected on her exciting debut album ‘Pretty Lies’. We are pretty sure that we will be hearing more of this young talented American lady in the future.“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"Beautiful songs about Allison Dietz personal experiences, like all forms of love, her clear voice and charming melodies result in sensitive americana and roots songs....."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
week.22
Mårten Lärka "Alouette" (M Otion)
"In classic rock mode (guitar, bass, drums), a little harmonica here and there, and a maximum of completely willful lyrics in French, Mårten Lärka succeeds in creating something entirely unique....."
"Mårten Lärka is a troubadour, a pop oriented singer and songwriter from Sweden, but he sings in French, his songs are simple and stripped to basics, and sometimes they sound like lullabies, away from tight song structures in search for new melodies and rhythms, Mårten makes this an intriguing album."
- Peter Jacobs / Keys & Chords -
“Mårten Lärka is a Swedish folksinger and songwriter with 3 solo albums in the Swedish language in his discography, but with album number 4, ‘Alouette’, he is targeting for the international market by singing all 9 songs in the French language, and 'why not?', or maybe ‘pourquoi pas?’.“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"The album 'Alouette', by Mårten Lärka, is the most lighthearted, entertaining music I've heard in a long time."
week.21
The Chapin Sisters "Today's Not Yesterday" (Lake Bottom Records)
"Although they released their Everly Brothers tribute album in 2013, it's been 6 years since there has been any new, original material from the Chapin Sisters, but thankfully, the drought has ended with a particularly fruitful rainy season in the form of this 12-strong collection....."
- Mike Davies / Fatea Magazine -
"Today is not yesterday, but tomorrow holds a future for these two talented and visually aware sisters and their music."
- Stephen Rapid / Lonesome Highway -
"One of the joys of doing what I do here at the Rocking Magpie headquarters is discovering and rediscovering acts like the Chapin Sisters, and then screaming their talent from the rooftops….."
- Alan Harrison / The Rocking Magpie -
"Pop and country songs with phenomenal vocal harmonies is a must have for fans of The Everly Brothers!"
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
“The Chapin Sisters have released a new album called ‘Today’s Not Yesterday’, and that is a true statement, because their Appalachian music, folk rock, country rock and pop songs are still evolving towards future classics in these music styles, and the beautiful vocal harmony songs on this record are based on their move from Los Angeles to New York, and the effect that this drastic change have created on their lives and relationships.”
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
week.20
Dave Insley "Just The Way That I Am" (D.I.R.)
"Country music fans of all flavours will love this record, it has something for everyone, like soul, blues, mariachi, and Insley can turn his hand to all, all infused with some Texas country....."
- Rudie Humphrey / Fatea Magazine -
"Those who have come across Dave Insley before, will delight in this latest addition to his recorded output, and those who are coming to him for a first time should enjoy this well packaged album, which puts a lot of releases on major labels to shame."
- Stephen Rapid / Lonesome Highway -
"With a healthy reputation touring the clubs and honky tonks of the south western states and a residency every Saturday night at the White Horse Saloon in Austin, he probably doesn’t fancy becoming an overnight sensation, but with this type of music being increasingly popular in Europe, with this superb album he just could be!"
- Alan Harrison / The Rocking Magpie -
"Good old country, with lyrics that express ‘love’, ‘the things that went wrong’ and ‘personal experiences’ in a very original way."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
“With such a list of vocal and instrumental collaborators, it should be no surprise that Dave Insley’s new album may become a strong candidate for a 2016 grammy award as best country record, as 8 years after his previous release ‘West Texas Wine’, he overwhelms with 12 songs that all can be future country classics.“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
week.19
The Grahams "The Glory Bound EP" (12 South Records)
"I really loved the original album, and if you haven’t already got it in your collection, I urge you to rush out and get it, as well as this new EP, you won’t be disappointed....."
- Alan Harrison / The Rocking Magpie -
"This is an extraordinary fine roots album!"
”I saw The Grahams on stage in Austin in 2015, and what a show they gave, they are the real deal!”
- Mike Penard / Radio I.S.A. FM -
week.18
Bill Price "I Can't Stop Looking At The Sky" (Grass Magoops Records)
"Although I'd not heard of Bill Price before, I was very surprised by the high quality and variety of the music on offer on 'I Can't Stop Looking At The Sky', and still after a long, long while, I haven't been able to put it down."
- Eric van Domburg Scipio / Heaven Magazine -
“Lots of respect for the tremendous job that Bill Price has delivered during the last 4 years to create his ‘work of life’ in the concept album ‘I Can’t Stop Looking At The Sky’, which you can buy it in a deluxe version, consisting of 2 CD’s, a personal journal, an extensive companion book, a lyrics booklet, posters, postcards, buttons, stickers, bookmark and a $5 rebate coupon.“
-Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"The full version of 'I Can’t Stop Looking At The Sky' contains 33 original songs and is a representation of Bill's journey through the American West, and the copy that we received is just a sampler, so it's hard to get a picture of the entire album, but the way Bill Price utilized all forms of American music to tell his story, makes us favorable."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
"A rich and very interesting musical and lyrical journey, offered by a a very creative artist, clearly unique."
- Mike Penard / Radio I.S.A. FM -
"A beautifully crafted, sophisticated album"
week.17
Inouwee "Rawhide" (Empty Bodies Recordings)
"Signe’s soft and honest vocal, combined with heavy beats, and Kaare’s melodic guitar and keyboard, both creating a genre somewhere in between trip-hop, indie pop and electro, delivers a pure nordic excellence in sound....."
- Kenneth Bremer / Blue Desert -
"A nice hybrid of indie, pop and electronic music....."
- Patrick van de Wiele / Keys & Chords -
“Danish man and woman duo releases their debut album ‘Rawhide’ with 9 tracks that can be categorized under indie rock and electronic pop, and because of its set up and the kind of music they bring on this record, there is a good chance that they will be compared to the Swedish duo Roxette....."
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
week.16
Steven Casper & Cowboy Angst "I Feel Like I've Got Snakes In My Head"
(Silent City)
"This disc may be only 7 tracks and 25 minutes long, but Steven Casper & Cowboy Angst delivers a high quality set of tunes with some really great playing....."
- David Vousden / Red Guitar Music -
"Steven Clasper travelled the world with his parents until he finally got to call America home, aged 16, and it’s that outsiders view and love of country music that makes these 7 songs very special indeed....."
- Alan Harrison / The Rocking Magpie -
"Check this one out for sure, as 'I Feel Like I've Got Snakes In My Head' truly is a great EP!"
"Steven Casper & Cowboy Angst have a solid musical background, and they prove it with this mini-album filled with catchy rock, country and tex-mex."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
“'I Feel Like I’ve Got Snakes In My Head’ is another great EP by Steven Casper & Cowboy Angst from Los Angeles. We get 6 self penned songs in a broad variety of music styles, but with a clear number 1 position for the fantastic tex-mex tune ‘Maria’. I love it, man, I truly love it!“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
week.15
Courtney Yasmineh "Red Letter Day" (Stupid Bitch Records)
"Courtney Yasmineh could well appeal to a wide audience with this album, as her songs and expressive voice have the potential to appeal across the board in different settings, whether you're keen on the likes of Lucinda Williams or Liz Phair, or somewhere in between, then throw an ear her way....."
- Stephen Rapid / Lonesome Highway -
"The sound of the week!"
- Benny Sörensen / Musik Fra Kyst Til Kyst -
"The bluesy guitar riffs and solos are a nice addition to Courtney Yasmineh's strong vocals....."
- Gabor Kleinbloesem / Strutterzine -
"The 2015 full CD with band contains a lot of great songs....."
- Peter Jacobs / Keys & Chords-
“With the same songs on the tracklists, the full CD and the unplugged EP of Courtney Yasmineh’s album ‘Red Letter Day’ provide good music for everyone’s ears by the different approach of performance and execution.“
- Valére Sampermans/ Rootstime -
week.14
Daniel Martin Moore "Golden Age" (OK Recordings/SofaBurn Records)
"Songs for those moments between drowsy reverie and waking epiphany, these are truly golden slumbers....."
- Mike Davies / Fatea Magazine -
"Daniel Martin Moore's new album 'Golden Age' is an album full of super nice, with piano as the main instrument, pop ballads....."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
“On the new album ‘Golden Age’, from Kentucky-based singer songwriter Daniel Martin Moore, the influences of its producer Jim James, the musical genius of the American rock band My Morning Jacket, are very much present, yet, all the credits and merits on the quality of these instant classic-songs on this delicious album should in the first instance go the composer himself, so if you would consider to buy only one CD in 2016, then let it be this one!”
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
week.13
Yael Meyer "Warrior Heart" (K.L.I. Records)
“We regret that we discovered Yael Meyer only now, through her 3rd album, but we have to say that it's very hard to take the CD away from the player, when you reach the final track, the temptation to push the restart-button is extremely high, thereby confirming the top quality of the songs and of the singing on this fabulous album.....“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"For fans of real singer songwriters."
- Patrick van de Wiele / Keys & Chords -
"Yael has a beautiful voice, this album is a high quality release and very much recommended, it could easily gain her a breakthrough worldwide if she’s lucky, because the talent is present all over the place."
- Gabor Kleinbloesem / Strutterzine -
"Yael Meyer has recorded an album in a very special style, it is beautifully played and performed by Meyer and her band, it's a fabulous album, all told."
- Anna Maria Stjärnell / Luna Kafé -
week.12
Timo Räisänen "Timo Sjunger Ted" (Omitted Records/PND)
"Lagom till 60-årsfirandet av Ted Gärdestad kommer Timo Räisänen med denna hyllningskiva, inspelad tillsammans med Göteborg Wind Orchestra, med ett vidöppet tilltal i rösten som visar ett otippat släktskap....."
- Nils Hansson / Dagens Nyheter -
"Timo Räsisänens indiepopröst, som nästan brister, ger en nervig och snygg kontrast till Gärdestads låtskatt, och 'Come Give Me Love' utklassar originalet och ger omedelbar gåshud."
"'Jag Ska Fånga En Ängel' är fylld av välbehövligt syre och blir riktigt skön med hjälp av en maffig kör och Göteborg Wind Orchestra, sak samma med 'Satellit', den gamla schlagerhiten, och frågan är om Timo någonsin har sjungit finare än på 'För Kärlekens Skull'?"
- Jan Andersson / Göteborgsposten -
"Jag har alltid gillat Ted Gärdestads texter men tyckt att hans musik ibland blir lite för smörig, så är det inte i Räisänens fall, han ger låtarna en nerv jag tidigare saknat och jag inser att jag måste citera ett annat framgångsrikt tv-program, denna skiva är 'Så Mycket Bättre'!"
- Daniel Gustavsson / Lira Musikmagasin -
"Med sin lite kantiga röst tar Timo upp kampen med orkesterarrangemangen och lyckas tillsammans med en gospelinfluerad hyllningskör ge dignitet åt hela projektet."
- Håkan Pettersson / Nerikes Allehanda -
"Med de 13 tolkningarna på ' Timo Sjunger Ted', som arrangemangsmässigt skiljer sig rejält från originalen, blir den tidlösa kraften, värmen och snillet i den till synes simpla grundmallen helt uppenbar."
"Den lite sköra men samtidigt uttrycksfulla rösten passar djupet och kluvenheten i Gärdestads sånger bra och det finns också lite mer av en svårdefinierad robusthet i låtarna nu, det Räisänen visar är att sångerna har kraft att leva vidare i ytterligare 40 år, minst!"
- Per Wiker / Nya Wermlandstidningen -
"Jag tycker Timos sång i kombination med orkesterarrangemang fungerar väldigt bra och när det sen byggs på med gospelklingande kör, som i 'Jag Ska Fånga En Ängel', faller allt ordentligt på plats."
"När det är som allra bäst, som i de brutalt vackra och rörande 'Jag Vill Ha En Egen Måne' och 'För Kärlekens Skull' ror han projektet i land med besked och påminner om den egna storheten som låttolkare."
- Karin Andersson / Uppsala Nya Tidning -
"Fina tolkningar och arrangemang av Ted och Kenneth Gärdestads låtskatt."
- Robert Ryttman / Zero Magazine -
week.11
West Of Eden "Look To The West" (West Of Music)
"West of Eden, the Swedish folk band, stands out through the beauty of the floating and nuanced music, combined with the exceptional purity of Jenny Schaub’s voice....."
"I don’t know which impresses me more, this Swedish sextet’s music, or the fact they inhabit their chosen genres so authentically you’d believe they were native born. When it comes to the 2017 Radio 2 Folk Awards nominations for Best Album, it would be good to see the horizons widened to accord this lot the fulsome recognition they deserve."
"Artists Of The Week!"
- Benny Sörensen / Musik Fra Kyst Til Kyst -
"West Of Eden is a Swedish folk-rock band that has thrilled audiences in Sweden and abroad for over a decade with their unique sound and brilliant songwriting."
- Kenneth Bremer / Blue Desert -
"This is a nice effort that breezes by nice as the proverbial summer breeze, with a few gusts to remind you that something really interesting is happening."
"In 13 songs in celtic folk style, West Of Eden tells the story of the emigrants at the end of the 19th century, early 20th century, who left Sweden for America, hoping for a better life."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
"West Of Eden's 9th album ‘Look To The West’ deals with the delicate theme of emigration from Sweden to the promised land America at the end of the 19th century, Martin and Jenny Schaub have once again composed lovely folk tunes which should bring them well deserved success all over Europe, but especially in Ireland, Scotland and in their home country of Sweden."
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"With 'Look To The West', West Of Eden has created a thematic, yet varied collection of songs with a subject matter as present today as it was back in the days of the Swedish emigration."
- Arnaud Leger / Westcoast Rendezvous -
week.10
Tim Houlihan "Another Orion" (Tim Houlihan)
"There isn’t a duff track among the ten featured, and there is a constancy to the album that makes it largely work in context, an album where the songs grow with greater familiarity and soon sound like some old friends....."
- Stephen Rapid / Lonesome Highway -
"Tim Houlihan's new album 'Another Orion' has songs with influences that range from rock to folk, from blues to country, in another word, americana....."
- Patrick van de Wiele / Keys & Chords -
“Minneapolis based singer-songwriter Tim Houlihan has shifted from acoustic folk to more and more in the direction of contemporary alt country and rock music, which is these days generally called ‘americana’, and his latest album ‘Another Orion’ contains a clever mix of these music styles and demonstrates the skills of a promising artist.“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"Artist Of The Week!"
- Benny Sörensen / Skagensexpressen -
week.09
Caroline Aiken "Broken Wings Heal" (Caroline Aiken)
“After a music career of more than 47 years, it is needless to say that Caroline Aiken can compose and sing beautiful songs, and more worthwhile is therefore to mention that now you can hear 12 of such pearls on her 9th album ‘Broken Wings Heal’....."
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"With lyrical texts and songs containing both folk, rock and blues influences, Caroline Aiken wants to give an impetus to her daughter, an impetus that will lead to hope, happiness and freedom, so that her broken wings will be healed!"
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
"Joined by a list of excellent players, Caroline Aiken delivers a powerful performance in her clear vocal and playing, and places her talents among the very best of contemporary folk singer-songwriters."
- Paul McGee / Lonesome Highway -
"'Broken Wings Heal' sings Caroline Aiken on an album that has a depth of feeling, never over introspective always with a ray of hope, the reality can be grim and she is not afraid to address these with honesty and clarity, 'Broken Wings Heal' lifts the mood as the power of music once again gives life a direction."
"Artist Of The Week!"
- Benny Sörensen / Musik Fra Kyst Til Kyst -
week.08
Jimmy Ruggiere "A Heartache Couldn't Happen To A Nicer Guy"
(Blue Streak Records)
"Jimmy Ruggiere comes across as a man who enjoys making this music as much as many will enjoy hearing it, so any success his debut album might find likely couldn’t happen to a nicer guy....."
- Stephen Rapid / Lonesome Highway -
"Fiddle, banjo, lap steel, guitar, harmonica, a warm voice and 10 original songs in pure country style, a really nice album!"
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
“Country veteran Jimmy Ruggiere always stood in the background as harmonica player for several Texan country stars, but with his debut album ‘Nicer Guy’, he now puts his skills as singer and songwriter in the spotlights, the gentle mix of touching ballads, uptempo country rock, honky tonk and speedy bluegrass sounds pretty entertaining and successful.“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"Each track on Jimmy Ruggiere's 'Nicer Guy' manages to capture a bit of genuine soul, humor and truth, while introducing surprising twists and insight along the way, eclectic, eccentric, real."
- Arnaud Leger / Westcoast Rendezvous -
week.07
Kate Campbell "The K.O.A. Tapes, Vol 1" (Large River Music)
"This is a long and winding journey of celebration and reflection through the American south, but Kate Campbell is never less than a wonderful travelling companion, so I've already pre-booked my ticket for 'Vol 2'....."
- Mike Davies / Fatea Magazine -
"Here is yet another epic recording from Southern girl and singer-songwriter Kate Campbell, her depth of emotion, lyrical content and general poetic warmth help elevate her to a place reserved for very special performers."
- Maurice Hope / Flyin' Shoes -
"Mixing her own songs with some of her own favourites, Kate Campbell sounds like she’s having the time of her life, unrestrained by the shackles of a recording studio."
- Alan Harrison / The Rocking Magpie -
"Singer-songwriter Kate Campbell takes songs from the treasury of American music as the basis for a very nice and understated folk album."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
“The impressive ‘The K.O.A. Tapes, Vol. 1’ shows Kate Campbell in a vulnerable and fragile mood when she performs her own songs and a few well selected cover versions of music history classics like Kris Kristofferson’s ‘Me And Bobby McGee’ and Lynyrd Skynyrd’s ‘Freebird’, Nashville’s musician Kate Campbell is a top class lady and an even better singer-songwriter, so please quickly deliver ‘The K.O.A. Tapes, Vol. 2!“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
week.06
David Berkeley "Cardboat Boat" (Straw Man)
"On David Berkeley's new album 'Cardboat Boat' you'll find movingly beautiful songs about love, solace, protection and encouragement, in our times of despair and loss, float on....."
- Mike Davies / Fatea Magazine -
"David Berkeley sings with a tender, but catchy and expressive voice of the stories of his characters, and we will certainly all identify with it....."
- Wolfgang Giese / Musik An Sich -
"This new album by David Berkeley is better than ever, with winds and strings added just at the right time, not too much, nor too little, just perfect!"
- Holly Moors / Moors Magazine -
"A new album that goes with the book ‘The Free Brontosaurus’ by singer songwriter David Berkeley."
- Patrick van de Wiele / Keys & Chords -
"David Berkeley has amassed a dedicated and widespread following who fully funded the creation of this new album and book."
- Kenneth Bremer / Blue Desert -
"Brilliantly played by very talented musicians, greatly sung by David Berkeley, as he is an immersive singer, which sometimes lead you to think of Nick Drake."
week.05
Rachel Garlin "Wink At July" (Tactile Records)
"Rachel Garlin creatively used this transitional period in her life to compose 12 marvelous songs that are now recorded on her 5th album ‘Wink At July’ on which the title track and the lovely ‘Colorado Rain' excel.....“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"An album by a singer-songwriter that is much better than the average!"
- Patrick van de Wiele / Keys & Chords -
"A slightly flawed gem, then, but a gem nonetheless!"
- Mike Davies / Fatea Magazine -
"Artist Of The Week!"
- Benny Sörensen / Musik Fra Kyst Til Kyst -
week.04
Buford Pope "The Poem & The Rose" (Unchained Records)
"This harks back to memories of me, sitting in my bedroom listening to The Band and their ilk, in the early 70’s, conjuring up images to go along with their magical descriptions, in exactly the same way I’ve done with this album....."
- Alan Harrison / The Rocking Magpie -
"This album may be a decade old, but, although I'm not suggesting it's in the same league, it has the same timeless feel as albums like 'Grievous Angel', 'Sweetheart Of The Rodeo' or 'Heart Like A Wheel', and could just as easily be the latest offering from one of the better retro country revival outfits doing the rounds at the moment."
- Mike Davies / Fatea Magazine -
"The tunes of Buford Pope is in no way inferior to the singing and songwriting of many of his more famous colleagues across the ocean."
- Cis van Looy / Written In Music -
“What was meant to be his 2nd album became his 6th, but the way we have enjoyed all 12 songs on ‘The Poem & The Rose’ makes us conclude that Buford Pope and his band have probably created their best album ever, ten years after its first recording it, this CD contains a few songs that normally can only be allocated to superb singer-songwriters like Bob Dylan and Neil Young, it also confirms that top Americana and country songs can as well be made in Sweden, as in the USA.”
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
"In short, an absolute must have!"
- Holly Moors / Moors Magazine -
"First class americana gem!"
- Max W Achatz / Country Jukebox -
"'The Poem & The Rose' is a richly produced album where Buford Pope’s signatures, the strong melodies and his raspy gravel voice, once again make much of the Swedish country-influenced rock pale in comparison."
- Kenneth Bremer / Blue Desert -
"Definitely too good not to be discovered by many more fans of this particular genre."
week.03
Penny Nichols "Golden State" (Pensongs)
"Having never heard of Penny Nichols before receiving this album, I must say that I am completely won over by both her singing and her songwriting, I wonder how long it will be before she decides to release another one, not too long I hope....."
- Rory Stanbridge / Fatea Magazine -
"In 'Golden State' singer songwriter Penny Nichols presents a very intimate, in parts outstanding, song collection that are based on stories and personal experiences from her childhood....."
- Max W Achatz / Country Jukebox -
"When first putting on this album I wasn't prepared for anything this beautiful....."
- Wolfgang Giese / Musik An Sich -
"Penny Nichols has a great voice, she sings well and convincingly, and she has a more than excellent band that plays very driven....."
- Holly Moors / Moors Magazine -
"Usually hanging around somewhere between folk and roots, Penny Nichols paints a mighty fine atmospheric picture....."
- Benny Metten / Ctrl Alt Country -
"Over the years Penny Nichols has written a lot of often autobiographical songs, and these songs get through the beautiful musical accompaniment, a contemporary face....."
- Lambert Smits / Keys & Chords -
“Penny Nichols is a singer songwriter who lived most of her life in Southern California, where she has worked with lots of great artists and that is why she may refer to Jackson Browne, Linda Ronstadt and Jennifer Warnes as ‘my friends’, and her latest album ‘Golden State’ is a nostalgic recollection of events, meetings and good memories during her exciting life in a world full of music.“
- Valére Sampermans / Rootstime -
week.02
Gibrish "Gangstertango" (Gibrish Songs)
"Gibrish 2nd album is a rollicking blend of genres, from delta blues and cabaret, to progressive folk rock, with elements of both anarchist worldbeat and Tom Waits-inspired storytelling, nice moods created skillfully using the harmonium, accordion, glockenspiel and stylish slide guitar....."
- Lars Fahlin / Lira Musikmagasin -
"Bull's-eye, enticing and alluring skewed contemporary folk prog....."
"A musical hilariously eclectic disc where the band in a quite obvious way mixes blues, folk, tango, cabaret, world and gypsy music in a really nice stew....."
"Gibrish is like a meeting between Tom Waits, Ry Cooder and Allan Edwall, on a dark path deep in the woods."
- Kenneth Bremer / Blue Desert -
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