When I first heard the singing of Mary Margaret O’Hara, I was immediately captivated with the unique way she interpreted her songs. 'Miss America' is a rare and bonafide gem full a great songs (Bodies In Trouble; Anew Day, When You Know Why You're Happy, and Not Be Alright are all classics) performed in Ms. O'Hara's inimitable style. Open your ears and wallets and purchase this album - ASAP.

This is a beautiful multi-layered album that rewards you each time you listen to it. Along with 'Silent', favourite songs include 'Into The Sun', 'Brooklyn', and 'This Is How The Story Goes', but in truth, every song is a 'keeper'.

I first heard "I'm Still Looking For A Home" on a live stream from Club Passim, and was immediately entranced by the harmonies and the haunting sound of the melody. In one fell swoop, I became a fan and follower of Joy Askew, and I urge readers to listen to her music - especially this album - and purchase her music. BTW, why don't more musicians use brass instruments in their music? They really help give the arrangements a lift, and this album is full of that beautiful sound.

The album’s title song, Peeling Back The Sky is a great opener for what is a mostly subdued first album from Niall Connolly, a performer I ‘discovered’ after catching a live-stream show from Boston’s famed Club Passim. I especially enjoyed the sound of Karl Nesbitt's low whistle on several tracks, which adds a delightful Celtic feel to the album. Aisling Fitzpatrick’s unobtrusive work on cello is also worth noting. Other faves: You Know I’m Not Going Anywhere, Echo Bridge, and You Know Best.

Favourite song? It would be easier to say which is my least favourite song, but then they are all terrific and that would be doing a disservice to the thoughtful lyrics, memorable arrangements, and the soulful singing of Yasmine Shelton who takes the lead on all the vocals, ably assisted by Sam Clark’s beautiful harmonies, and sublime guitar, mandolin and fiddle playing. But since you asked: In The Clay, Maggie, Phenomenal, Hi Love, Mary’s River, Upside Down... well, you get the idea.

Pick a favorite track they said. How? With so many fine songs it's easier to simply say, Listen for yourself, and buy the album. Along with the title song, there's Sacré-Coeur, Open Your Eyes, I Am A Good Man, Neighbor..., and of course, the magnificent, May 12th, 1916...; Listen for yourself - and buy the album! You won't regret it.

Great songs, with lyrics that have depth and meaning, beautifully rendered with thoughtful instrumentation and melodies, and all performed with heart and feeling. It's A Beautiful Life, Out The Light, Forgiveness Is Hard, and so many other fine songs make this a delight to listen to over and over again.

The Gaslight Tinkers have done it again! From the foot-tapping opener, ‘Quarry Cross’, through to the oddly compelling ‘When The Shadows Are Long’, their second album is even more engaging than the first, with its eclectic blending of musical styles, songs, original compositions and tradition tunes. Adding a female vocalist (name her please) to the lineup brings a whole new dimension to the group, and I hope she is now a permanent part of the ensemble.