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 09/2008

    RODNEY CROWELL
    – Sex & Gasoline

  • reviewed 02/2005

    Jess Klein
    Strawberry Lover

  • reviewed 04/2006

    Darlo Anger's Republic of Strings
    Generation Nation

  • reviewed 07/2011

    RICKY SKAGGS
    Country Hits Bluegrass Style

  • reviewed 05/2007

    RENEE STAHL
    Hopeful Romantic

  • reviewed 08/2007

    DUTCH HENRY
    All That Space

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.