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 10/2015

    Joel Rafael
    Americana Music Festival Sampler

  • reviewed 01/2005

    Joanna Newsom
    The Milk-Eyed Mender

  • reviewed 08/2007

    TWO LOONS FOR TEA
    Nine Lucid Dreams

  • reviewed 05/2010

    THE COAL MEN
    BEAUTY IS A MOMENT

  • reviewed 11/2010

    AMANDA SHAW
    GOOD SOUTHERN GIRL

  • reviewed 11/2004

    Robyn Hitchock
    Spooked

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.