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 10/2008

    Lindsay Mac
    Stop Thinking

  • reviewed 05/2007

    Great Lakes Myth Society
    Compass Rose Bouquet

  • reviewed 02/2007

    The Last Town Chorus
    Wire Waltz

  • reviewed 05/2008

    Various Artists
    My Blueberry Nights Soundtrack

  • reviewed 10/2015

    The Waxies
    Down With The Ship

  • reviewed 08/2016

    Genna & Jesse
    Asphalt Rhapsody

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.