Cerys Matthews

Cockahoop

2004-11-23

Cerys (Kare-iss) Matthews was the lead singer for the Welsh pop/rock band Catatonia which recorded four successful albums in the 90's. Matthews went through the familiar rock star routine of fame-fast livin'-substance abuse-breakdown-recovery. Searching for a new focus, she went to Nashville in 2002 and collaborated with Bucky Baxter, lap steel guitarist for Dylan and Ryan Adams. Baxter served as producer for Cockahoop, Matthews' first solo release.

Matthews' unique voice leads the way through the set. It's rather thin and frail, but, at the same time, it's very expressive, intense, and full of passion. The album contains original songs, covers, and some traditional Welsh folk songs. The marriage of pop/rock, Welsh tradition, and Nashville soul make for a highly original and outstanding piece of work.

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Folk

  • reviewed 06/2005

    Chip Taylor & Carrie Rodriguez
    Red Dog Tracks

  • reviewed 07/2004

    Michael Franti
    Songs from the Front Porch

  • reviewed 08/2016

    Lee Bob & The Truth
    The Light LP

  • reviewed 09/2008

    DELILAH DEWYLDE & THE LOST BOYS
    Honky Tonk Heart

  • reviewed 10/2009

    LYLE LOVETT
    NATURAL FORCES

  • reviewed 10/2006

    AMOS LEE
    Supply and Demand

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.