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 06/2012

    KELLY HOGAN
    I Like to Keep Myself in Pain

  • reviewed 11/2006

    GOB IRON
    Death Songs For The Living

  • reviewed 05/2008

    The Brass Kings
    Washboard Rope Guitar

  • reviewed 01/2007

    ADAM SNYDER
    This Town Will Get Its Due

  • reviewed 03/2011

    RON SEXSMITH
    Long Player Late Bloomer

  • reviewed 06/2006

    REGINA SPEKTOR
    Begin to Hope

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.