Dominion

This quartet is the combination of two duos – Nancy Kerr and James Fagan with Richard and Jess Arrowsmith – who came together when they became neighbours on Melrose Road, Sheffield; all are seasoned artists on the English folk scene. Joy in music-making bursts out of the speakers on Dominion, their second album together. A mix of songs both traditional and new, along with instrumental pieces on fiddles, melodeon and guitars, this set is firmly rooted in English tradition but roams across centuries in style and subject matter. What makes the Melrose Quartet extraordinary, though, is their ensemble singing. Several tracks are a capella (or very nearly) and the virtuosity and musicianship in these four voices combined is something to behold. Paul Davenport's ‘Davy Cross’, a tale of a fisherman lost at sea, brings a lump to the throat when told by these clear and bell-like voices.

Nancy Kerr has to be one of the finest songwriters in English folk, as demonstrated on just two memorable pieces of melody and lyricism: ‘Hand Me Down’ and ‘Rise No More’. There's plenty more to enjoy here; the instrumental dances are full of vim and vigour and the accompanying booklet, with all the lyrics and short explanations about each piece, is the cherry on top of an excellent record.