Perfect Americana album, driving meaty vocals that raise the bar and swiftly turn from rocky edged lyrical influences to driving country balladry. Contemporary Celtic folk violinist and singer-songwriter from Scotland, Laura McGhee released her debut album GREEN EYES in 2006. I could readily compare this to the likes of Elizabeth Cook, the Bittersweets and the Redlands Palomino Company. This second album from Laura is an all embracing look at her roots in traditional Celtic music, but also encapsulating a contemporary side of the Americana music scene. Having already received album of the week from Celtic Music Radio for CELTICANA, Laura has also now received airplay on BBC Radio. Three of ten tracks on this release have been co-written by Laura, with one of them, Memphis Crawl, cowritten by Jim Lauderdale. Half of the album was recorded in Nashville whilst the other half in Glasgow. Tracks such as the opener Careless is a rolling Americana hit-to-be, with a punchy force behind it, pushed farther with the commanding vocals that ultimately steer the direction of this record and certainly bring it to a place of its own. Memphis Crawl is a country twang track, that's mightily powerful and energetic, with some wonderful guitar playing, whilst Radio Love is more of a fun loving track that is addictive in melody and catchy in lyrical content. What a fantastic release! This has everything - wonderful vocals, superb musicianship, variety in song and subject and a sound that is captivating and thrilling. Don't overlook this one - and maybe soon you'll see her on the live scene near you!
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