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 02/2008

    JIM WHITE
    Transnormal Skiperoo

  • reviewed 12/2012

    THE HANGDOG HEARTS
    The Hangdog Hearts

  • reviewed 12/2015

    The Paperboys
    At Peace With Ones Ghosts

  • reviewed 10/2008

    TOM MORELLO, THE NIGHTWATCHMAN
    The Fabled City

  • reviewed 04/2014

    SAINTSENECA
    Dark Arc

  • reviewed 11/2006

    PAUL WESTERBURG
    Open Season

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.