REVIEW FROM www.livingtradition.co.uk

KIRSTY MCGEE
Two Birds
Park Records PRKCD85

Kirsty McGee has a lovely, mellow, soft voice and lyrics that pack a punch. The combination is deadly and highly addictive. One of the rising stars of the English folk scene, she has shared stages and studios with some of the greats of the genre. And with good reason; her singing and writing are both distinctive and unique.

Her edgy sound mixes acoustic folk with jazz and chanson elements to create something rather original. Accompanied by Mat Martin on a variety of stringed instruments and several other musicians, the album is intimate, contemplative and reflexive. McGee sounds for all the world as if she is baring her soul. 'Fresh Water' features Martin on banjo, emphasizing the driving tune. 'One Star' brilliantly showcases the beautiful instruments that McGee herself built, while 'Thank You', the opening track, is a song of deep love. 'The Right Way Home' has a smoky, jazzy sound and mixes up the album nicely. McGee makes sure her album is never repetitive or boring, constantly adding different instruments or styles. The one complaint I have is that the lyrics appear in a completely different order in the liner notes than the songs do on the album. It is not really that big of a deal, but somehow it is still irritating.

McGee's third album is recommended for anyone who enjoys quality acoustic, singer-songwriter music. This is recording from a very talented artist who hopefully has a long career ahead of her for us to enjoy.

Jean Price