Those Who Roam

The second album from 2015 BBC Young Traditional Musician of the Year Claire Hastings is a real treat. With an evocative, timeless voice backed by such illustrious guests as Jenn Butterworth on guitar, Laura Wilkie on fiddle, Thomas Gibbs on piano and Andrew Waite on accordion, Those Who Roam comprises a mix of traditional and self-penned tracks, highlighting Hasting's talents as a songwriter as well as a vocalist.

‘Jack the Sailor’ is a breezy seafaring adventure – a traditional track with some new verses by Hasting and some rather swift fiddle work from Laura Wilkie, while ‘Fair Weather Beggar’, set in Edinburgh's Royal Mile, is a contemporary track with an ageless vibe, emphasising Hasting's deep knowledge and respect for traditional storytelling in song. ‘Jamie Raeburn’ is a melancholic narrative on transportation with a romantic edge, while ‘Seven Gypsies’ is a feisty rendition of the folk favourite. Closer ‘Ten Thousand Miles’ is a remarkably effective rendition of the traditional track with some stunning three-part harmony. An instant standard setter.

This is a beautifully produced and presented album from a remarkably talented singer-songwriter. An accomplished, tender and atmospheric recording, Those Who Roam is bound to be an instant favourite.