a music blog about women in Americana & beyond
Last year Brittany Howard stepped away from her band Alabama Shakes and went out on her own, releasing the album Jaime to widespread critical acclaim. After a triumphant performance as part of the BBC 6 music festival in London she stopped off in Glasgow to play a stunning sold out show at the Old Fruitmarket. Continue reading “Live Review: Brittany Howard @ The Old Fruitmarket, Glasgow”
On the last night of Celtic Connections a sold out crowd at Oran Mor were delighted to welcome Shovels and Rope back to Scotland for the first time in a couple of years. Michael Trent and Cary Ann Hearst were on a short European tour to promote their excellent recent album By Blood. Continue reading “Live Review: Shovels & Rope @ Celtic Connections”
‘We live here now,’ Celia Woodsmith announced during Della Mae’s second show at Celtic Connections, such was the relaxed nature of the band and their genuine rapport with the Scottish audience. It might have been a Tuesday night but that didn’t stop them from putting on a blistering display of modern bluegrass that was warmly received by the crowd.
Continue reading “Live Review: Della Mae @ Celtic Connections”
There were so many brilliant shows on offer on Saturday at Celtic Connections, the only problem music fans had to face was deciding which one to attend. The lucky among us who chose The Lone Bellow were treated to a masterclass in vocal power and harmony that sent everyone home shaking their heads in awe. Continue reading “Live Review: The Lone Bellow @ Celtic Connections”
As she took to the stage for a rare live show in the UK, Iris DeMent admitted she was worried no one would turn up on a Monday night. Thankfully the Celtic Connections audience knows that such a trailblazing talent is one not to be missed. Continue reading “Live Review: Iris DeMent @ Celtic Connections”
‘This is a really special show,’ Caroline Spence announced during her set in Glasgow’s Glad Cafe on a chilly Friday evening. She was being self-deprecating after fluffing a few chords, but the warm response from the crowd proved that it really was the truth. Continue reading “Live Review: Caroline Spence with Roseanne Reid @ The Glad Cafe, Glasgow”
Scottish singer-songwriter Rachel Sermanni launched her upcoming album So It Turns last night at Summerhall in Edinburgh, surrounded by a crowd of adoring fans and a supporting cast of impressively talented musicians who all made this evening a truly special treat. Continue reading “Live Review: Rachel Sermanni @ Summerhall, Edinburgh”
Earlier this year Jenny Lewis released one of the best albums of 2019 and of her career. ‘On The Line’ told the story of her recent life, including bereavement and the end of her long term relationship. The music was unexpectedly uplifting, glorious even in the darkest moments. And so the sold out Saturday night crowd here in Edinburgh had come to celebrate and commiserate with her, and maybe even dance a little. Continue reading “Live Review: Jenny Lewis @ The Queen’s Hall, Edinburgh”
As I stand among the sold out crowd awaiting the arrival of Lucy Dacus, I hear a polite voice behind me saying ‘excuse me’. I apologise, move out of the way and see Lucy herself cradling a cup of tea as she walks past me onto the stage. She steps up to the mic and says ‘Shall we’, her quietly unassuming stage presence only adding to the appeal of this very special young artist. Continue reading “Live Review: Lucy Dacus with Liz Lawrence @ Voodoo Rooms, Edinburgh”
Highway Queens 