Kate possesses a lucid, lilting voice, which she devotes to traditional and contemporary folk music. Six of the twelve tracks were written by her. The themes draw on a familiarity with nature, The Lark, and a mature understanding of human relationships, Let Me Go. Almost all of the ballads deal with love gone wrong. There is one salute to the Scottish hero, Prince Charlie on The Bonnie House of Arilie. Kate’s husband, John McCusker, who produced the album, also plays fiddle, guitar, piano and whistle on the various tracks. This album is a top flight collection of fabulous vocals with artful instrumental support.

CR 4420 CD $16