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 12/2006

    ALELA DIANE
    The Pirates' Gospel

  • reviewed 11/2012

    BOBTOWN
    Trouble I Wrought

  • reviewed 03/2017

    Lawrence Morrill Glass
    Neanderthal

  • reviewed 02/2010

    HARLEM PARLOR MUSIC CLUB
    SALT OF THE EARTH

  • reviewed 02/2007

    Keith Sykes
    Let It Roll

  • reviewed 01/2017

    Kenley Collins
    Belle Black

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.