Fish Records Mailer - Feb/Mar
Neil Pearson
never had such a varied selection of discs to choose from - the discs here
represent all corners of our catalogue. Superb singer-songwriter discs from
Lori McKenna, Kris Delmhorst and Ellis Paul, contemporary folk with a
traditional twist from Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman and Cathie Ryan, and
contemporary albums from Josh Ritter and Sarah Harmer. There's certainly
something here for all tastes, and many of these discs are strong enough to
deserve a place in any record collection.
This mailer is available on our website at
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/feb02mail.html
We have some excellent Richard Shindell, Lori McKenna, and Dar Williams
goodies in the competition - details at
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/feb02comp.html
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Josh Ritter - Golden Age of Radio
Josh Ritter is a young singer/songwriter from Moscow, Idaho - and judging
from the stunning quality of this release, is an artist destined for huge
success.
'Golden Age of Radio' is a laidback and spare recording, but with real
musical depth - he and the band create some fantastic moments with simple
layers, melodies and themes.
This open sound suits the songs perfectly, creating a feel of the wide open
spaces of Middle America that compliments the brilliant and insightful
narratives.
Comparisons with other artists are inevitable, and he's certainly up there
with the very best, and has been likened to Bob Dylan, John Prine, Townes
Van Zandt, Neil Young, and even Nick Drake - all these influences are
obviously present here, but he is neither a sound-alike nor a plagiarist,
he's a real individual with a distinct contemporary style that sounds
instantly familiar and comfortable.
'Golden Age of Radio' is a truly outstanding piece of work, the 12 tracks
are varied, the styles range from the acoustic opener 'Come and Find Me', to
the country roots/rock of the title track, and every song is rewarding,
there aren't any fillers on the disc.
While this may not be a disc to grab the listener on the first play through,
two or three listens is all you need for the charms of the subtle melodies
and lyrics to work their magic.
This is an exciting disc from a superb new talent, and a release that augurs
well for the future; he's certainly an artist who will more widely known
over the next year or so - might as well get on board early! Not to be
missed. £12.99
Samples
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/goldenage.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/harrisburg.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/meandjiggs.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/anne.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/rollon.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/sftfireflies.ram
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Carol Noonan - Big Iron
Following on from last years excellent 'Self Titled' disc, Carol has
released an album of traditional American and Cowboy songs - and it's a
wonderful choice of subject matter, the mix of realism and romanticism in
the stories is unique to this genre of songwriting. This collection contains
imagery that is both comfortable and familiar, but still has an air of the
fantastic about it - it's easy to add colour and details to the images in
these story songs.
The choice of material is really well balanced, a mixture of trad Western
folk songs, covers of more recent material, and a few new self-written
songs.
The whole album is superbly recorded, and the guitar work of Duke Levine and
Kevin Barry is excellent, it's understated and sympathetic to the material.
The real highlight of the album is Carol's vocals, confident, clear, and as
pure and clean as you could ask for - it's a superb performance across all
the songs, and it's all beautiful recorded.
There are a number of standout songs, but the title track is the obvious,
it's a great tale of an Arizona Ranger and an Outlaw, the outcome in doubt
until the final few lines.
'Big Iron' is a title that is off the beaten track, and may seem a little
outside many people's normal listening material, but you should approach
this album without prejudice and with an open mind - the reward is a superb
album, full of great songs, melodies and performances. £12.99
Samples
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/bigiron.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/wayward.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/saddle.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/laredo.ram
Full MP3
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/mp3/bigiron.mp3
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Richard Shindell - Courier
Following 'Somewhere Near Paterson' was never going to be an easy task, but
with 'Courier' he manages to reinforce and build on his reputation as one of
the most intelligent singer/songwriters around.
Recorded live over thee shows in North Eastern USA, this album concentrates
on material from his three Shanachie releases, with only one track from
Paterson ('Transit'), and two covers (Lowell George's 'Willin', and
Springsteen's 'Fourth of July, Asbury Park').
Cherry picking the highlights from his impressive back catalogue means this
disc contains no filler, every song is beautifully crafted, and would be
worth it's place on any album.
After a few years of living with and performing these songs, they've really
had chance to develop, and with few exceptions these are the definitive
recordings - 'Arrowhead', already lyrically brilliant on 'Blue Divide' has
turned into a much more atmospheric song with different musical
accompaniment, and 'Reunion Hill' is spellbinding in it's slowed down
reading, with just Richard on guitar and Larry Campbell on violin.
Although recorded live, there's very little crowd noise, and the recording
is so clear it's more akin to an album that has been recorded live in the
studio. Add to this the superb backing vocals from Lucy Kaplansky
(especially on 'Kenworth of my Dreams' and 'Memory of You'), and a band who
know and understand the material, and you have an album of exceptional
quality.
After living with this album for a few months 'Courier' is the definitive
Shindell recording - it has the best songs from his Shanachie albums, and
they're presented in better readings than the original versions. A truly
essential disc. £13.49
also available in very limited quantities with a 5 track EP featuring live
songs not on the album. Please ring to check availability £17.49
Samples
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/Arrowhea.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/reunionhill.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/kenworth.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/summerwind.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/ayhnlive.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/willin.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/nextbest.ram
Full MP3
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/mp3/ayhn.mp3
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Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman - One
'1' is a low-key, self-released album from Equation members Kathryn Roberts
& Sean Lakeman. While as a band Equation concentrate on folk-rock, this
album is an altogether more restrained piece of work, it's acoustic
contemporary folk and a mixture of Trad Arrs and well chosen covers.
The acoustic approach works well in every respect - Kathryn's vocals are
pure and clear, every inflection and expression is present, and the emotions
in each song are wonderfully convey. The guitar work is rhythmic, tight, and
dynamic; and the whole collection is well recorded and produced.
While this may be an acoustic album, that's not to say it's musically
sparse, piano and clarinet are used, and two of the tracks are performed by
Equation, and are perfectly in keeping with the atmosphere of the album.
Highlights are a superb cover of Tom Waits' 'Georgia Lee', and a wonderful
reading of Richard Shindell's 'Spring'.
Self released it may be, but the quality of the recording, production and
performances make this a superb album, and one of the best contemporary folk
discs available. £9.99
Samples
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/georgialee.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/joepeel.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/springkr.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/lambs.ram
Full MP3
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/mp3/georgia.mp3
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Lori McKenna - Pieces of Me
While hugely popular in her native Boston, Lori has remained a relatively
well kept secret in the wider market - the release of this, her second
album, is guaranteed to earn her wider recognition.
This is a disc with instant appeal, from the very start of the opening track
'Mars', the disc sets a high standard that is maintained throughout. She has
a unique vocal style, and there's an edge to her voice that works on every
level; from acoustic to full band tracks, the emotive lyrics stand out. It's
often difficult to mix great lyrics and hook laden melodies - but she
carries it off on every single track on the disc.
It's difficult to pick highlights from 'Pieces of Me', but the superb 'Never
Die Young' sums up the disc perfectly, it's a wonderfully constructed song,
brilliant vocals (plus backing vocals from Richard Shindell), thought
provoking lyrics, and perfectly understated musical performances.
Elsewhere backing vocals are provided by Ellis Paul and Jennifer Kimball,
and the mainly acoustic guitar backdrop is augmented by mandolin, fiddle,
cello, and mandolin.
'Pieces of Me' is a singer/songwriter disc of the highest order,
exceptionally easy to listen to, but with real lyrical depth - a rare
combination. £12.99
Samples
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/mars.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/fireflies.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/girllikeme.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/godwill.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/neverdie.ram
Full MP3
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/mp3/mars.mp3
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Sarah Harmer - You Were Here
Over the course of 2001, we were regularly asked by customers to order this
disc for them on US import; while the high import price meant it was
difficult to include it in a mailer, this UK issue, a full year after US
release means we can finally carry the disc at a reasonable price.
Canadian baser Harmer is a first class singer/songwriter who while embracing
the lyrical style of many songwriters, approaches the music from a more
contemporary angle. It's best described as a mix of folk, roots, and pop,
and it's a mix that works incredibly well.
Instrumentation is varied, the standard guitar, bass, and percussion is
supplemented by cello, clarinet, trumpet, Wurlitzer, and occasional drum
loops. While the disc is both musically and lyrically sophisticated, it's
incredibly accessible and easy to listen to, the melodies ensure the songs
work on first listen, even before you've had chance to get to grips with the
lyrics.
Highlights are the excellent 'Basement Apartment', 'Around This Corner', and
'Lodestar', three songs that cover a wide range of styles and sum up the
disc perfectly.
'You Were Here' is an excellent singer/songwriter disc, full of wonderful
songs and performances, it's just executed in a more contemporary manner
than most. £13.49
Samples
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/basement.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/around.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/hideout.ram
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Kris Delmhorst - Five Stories
While this may only be Kris' second album, following her debut 'Appetite',
she's well beyond any 'promising new artist' tag - this disc is the finished
article, mature, subtle, varied, and with both musical and lyrical depth.
'Five Stories' sees Kris backed by a full band, and features 17 musicians
playing across the 12 songs, but this is a much more restrained disc than
you'd imagine. Electric guitar is used sparingly, and a huge variety of
instruments including mandolin, cello, piano, banjo, and accordion create
the musical backdrop.
While the instrumentation and song styles are varied (ranging from acoustic
ballads, to out and out rockers), the disc has a consistent feel created by
her skilful songwriting, and instantly likeable vocals.
It's the quieter, more considered songs that provide the highlights, 'Broken
White Line', 'Words Fail You', and 'Yellow Brick Road' are all lyrically
excellent, and have strong musical performances.
Guests on the disc include Catie Curtis, Jennifer Kimball, and Lori McKenna
amongst others. Immediately accessible but with depth to reward extended
listening - an excellent album. £12.99
Samples
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/brokenwhite.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/yellowbrick.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/damnlove.ram
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Ellis Paul - Sweet Mistakes
Sitting in between 2000's live release, and a new label album due later in
2002 comes 'Sweet Mistakes', an independently released collection of songs
that covers a huge range of styles. The low-key, independent release
approach allow Ellis to explore directions and musical styles that may not
survive a full label release - it's a real mixture of themes, from the usual
acoustic Ellis Paul ('Kristian's Song'), to country rock ('Rollaway Bed'),
to hip-hop beats ('The Martyr's Lounge'), and pop/rock ('3000 Miles'). The
title track is an excellent singer/songwriter pop number, and has been
included in the Farrelly Brothers movie 'Shallow Hal', and is certainly one
of the highlights from the 12 songs here.
Despite the fact that this is a collection of songs rather than an album
with a definite theme and feel, the songs are carefully sequenced and flow
well.
In may ways this is classic Ellis Paul, superb songwriting, and the lyrics
and melodies are as strong as ever; it's just the execution that's a little
different to usual.
'Sweet Mistakes' is refreshing collection, and one that gives us an insight
into the freedom and experimentation afforded to an established artist
releasing an independent disc. £13.49
Samples
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/3000miles.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/kristian.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/rollawaybed.ram
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Cathie Ryan - Somewhere Along the Road
This is Cathie's third solo release since leaving 'Cherish the Ladies' in
1995, and this is certainly the best of a very good bunch.
She approaches traditional music in the same unfussy way as Kate Rusby,
mixing contemporary covers, self written songs and traditional material in
such a way that they blend together seamlessly. The main difference is that
with Cathie being an Irish-American, the influences are mainly Irish rather
than British.
Her voice is clean, pure and powerful, she's undoubtedly a talented
vocalist, emotive without ever becoming over affected.
It's an all-star cast with John McCusker and John Doyle constants across the
album, and backing vocals are provided by Kate Rusby and Lester Simpson.
'Somewhere Along the Road' is an excellent folk album, both easy to listen
to and hugely enjoyable. £13.49
Samples
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/alongtheroad.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/mytribe.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/rathlin.ram
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Rod Picott - Tiger Tom Dixon's Blues
Almost certainly better known as the co-writer of two tracks from Slaid
Cleaves' 'Broke Down' ('Broke Down' and 'Bring it on'), this disc
establishes Rod as a writer and performer of exceptional quality.
He's a narrative storyteller offering glimpses and insights into the lives
of 'ordinary' people, giving the listener enough detail to identify and
relate to the characters and situations - it's gritty, clever and honest
songwriting that immediately grabs your attention.
Vocally, he's reminiscent of Springsteen & Steve Earle, powerful, melodic,
and with an engaging delivery that makes you listen to every word.
While the co-writes with Cleaves have a contemporary Americana sound, this
disc is really varied, moving from the insistent, driving rhythm of the
title track (which wouldn't be out of place on any Springsteen or Dylan
album), to the simplicity of the guitar and cello of 'Haunted Man'.
Highlights are everywhere, but personal favourites are 'Broke Down', a much
grittier reading than Cleaves', and 'On & On' a fantastic piece of writing
on the routine of everyday life.
'Tiger Tom Dixon's Blues' is a disc from an artist who will undoubtedly be a
celebrated writer and performer in the near future - but at the present time
this represents one of the best contemporary singer/songwriter discs around.
£13.49
Samples
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/brdown.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/onandon.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/torn.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/haunted.ram
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Jim Bryson - The Occasionals
Released in his native Canada a year ago, this disc picked up rave reviews
from music critics, and after a UK tour with Dar Williams last December the
disc is now available over here.
This is a collection of superbly crafted, unpretentious and honest songs -
ranging from the folky acoustic sounds of the opener, to the full-on band
sound that forms the majority of the disc..and what a band they are. All the
musicians here are top-drawer, the whole album is full of superb musical
touches, and everything feels natural and unforced.
Add to this excellent lyrics, strong melodies, and production that maintains
the life and feel of the band, and it all adds up to a quality album. An
unassuming gem. £13.49
Samples
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/without.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/travelled.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/onecigarette.ram
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Eleanor McEvoy - Yola
While most for her 1992 hit 'Only A Woman's Heart', and the subsequent
albums for Geffen and Columbia, her new album 'Yola' is independently
produced and released, and tellingly is a major improvement on the major
label collections.
'Yola' is a wonderfully simple recording; piano, guitars, bass and
percussion are the staples, with occasional violin completing the
accompaniment - the stripped down feel gives the lyrics chance to shine
through, and the whole disc a relaxed atmosphere. Interestingly for a
singer/songwriter disc, it's piano rather than acoustic guitar that forms
the base of these songs, and this approach really gives the disc a fresh
sound.
She has a warm and expressive voice, that is superbly captured by the
exceptional recording - this is definitely one of the best sounding discs we
carry. 'Yola' is an adventurous singer/songwriter disc that will undoubtedly
find mainstream success, as it has some great standout tracks, and it's all
really easy to enjoy. £13.49
Samples
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/igotyou.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/didihurtyou.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/littlelate.ram
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Julie & Buddy Miller - Julie & Buddy Miller
While they play and sing on each others solo records this is the
husband-and-wife team's first official release as a duo. Their talents work
really well together - she if a first-class songwriter (and wrote 7 of the
11 songs here), and he is a wonderful guitarist and singer. Vocals as shared
equally throughout the disc, but it's the way they sing together that stands
out - there's lots of harmonies here, but they're not slick or polished,
they have a rough authentic sound that gives the album a really distinct
feel.
Julie's original songs are excellent, and these are backed up by a couple of
great covers, Richard Thompson's 'Keep Your Distance', and Bob Dylan's
'Wallflower'. Julie and Buddy Miller are two of the most respected
alt-country artists around, and this disc backs-up their well deserved
reputation. £13.49
Samples
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/keepyour.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/thatsjust.ram
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk/audio/holding.ram
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Please feel free to email us if you have any questions or queries.
thanks and best wishes
Neil
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Fish Records
Suppliers of singer/songwriter, folk & acoustic music
Shrewsbury, England
ne...@fishrecords.co.uk
http://www.fishrecords.co.uk
tel +44 (0) 1743 231546
fax +44 (0) 1743 354354
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