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 04/2012

    JOE FLETCHER AND THE WRONG REASONS
    White Lighter

  • reviewed 08/2008

    Glen Campbell
    Meet Glen Campbell

  • reviewed 01/2012

    VARIOUS ARTISTS
    Chimes of Freedom: The Songs of Bob Dylan

  • reviewed 03/2007

    THE INFAMOUS STRINGDUSTERS
    Fork In The Road

  • reviewed 10/2005

    Susan Cowsill
    Just Believe It

  • reviewed 10/2006

    SARAH MCLACHLAN
    Mirrorball (The Complete Concert)

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.