Polly Barrett
Album: Probably Me
Label: Self Released
Tracks: 10
Website: http://www.pollybarrett.co.uk

Irish singer-songwriter Polly Barrett has released her second album, in collaboration with Liverpool musician and co-producer, Scott Poley. 'Probably Me' was made in seven days, with Scott playing mandolin, guitar, dobro, and percussion.

Polly has paid her dues as a busker on the streets of Cork, and is a graduate from the Rose Bruford Drama College, with a well-received debut album behind her ('Mr. Bookshop'). She is certainly well worthy of our attention among the current plethora of singer-songwriters, for the quality of her songwriting, and her beautiful Irish-accented singing, which conveys real humanity, and a lively warmth. Her songs encompass many topics, for example 'Watch Out Jack' is a great spine-chiller with real power about the ripper.

Song words are at least as important as the music in Polly's work, she has images and ideas to share with you. Her songs get you involved and you want to know how they turn out -that's a gift. The instruments are sensitively played and arranged to showcase the songs.

The opening song 'The Greater Good' has a memorable chorus, about the timeless theme of going to war, with Polly's voice pouring like honey. 'Who Knows' is a really catchy song about 'being me' with quite heavy words, treated to a delicate handling, an clever contrast of style with content.

'P stands for Paddy' shows off Polly's prowess in interpreting traditional songs and was the one that made it on to Mark Radcliffe's Radio 2 turntable. 'Hasn't Met You' is an excellent song with a direct, emotional delivery, followed by another infectious song about a relationship in 'The Way We Used to Be'.

The song of the album for me is 'Andrew', an exceptional, moving song expressing great empathy with a lost soul, a fellow busker. A truly lovely, sincere, melodic song in an album of good songs.

'Lay Me Down' is an uplifting upbeat love song, followed by the traditional 'Anachie Gordon', again illustating Polly's beautiful lilting way with a trad song.

The final track, 'Sparrow At The Window', keeps faith with the lively, vital energy of Polly's singing and songwriting. Scott does just the right thing at the right time with the backing once again.

Alhough there are two well performed traditional songs here, 'Probably Me' is a delightful contemporary folk album worth owning. I thoroughly enjoyed Polly Barrett's excellent songs and performance, and will look out for her concerts.

Kath Reade