Songs of Separation brings together ten female folk musicians from Scotland and England, to create a recording which reflects on the issue of ‘separation’ in its many forms, through traditional song. Celebrating the similarities and differences in our musical, linguistic and cultural heritage, and set in the context of a post-referendum world, the work aims to prompt new thinking about the issue of separation as it occurs in all our lives...

First things first. If you're not a fan of traditional folk music then you'll find little to get excited about here. While the album represents a beautiful collection of heartfelt songs, if you don't like folk there's little here that will change your mind.

The album contains 12 tracks (55 min, 50 sec) and is a highly significant collaborative recording project which reflects, through song, the issue of ‘separation’ in its many forms. Featuring ten of England and Scotland’s most celebrated female contemporary folk artists, together they explore the similarities and differences in our musical, linguistic and cultural heritage.

The LP includes contributions from Eliza Carthy, Karine Polwart, Rowan Rheingans, Mary Macmaster, Hannah Read, Kate Young, Jenn Butterworth, Hazel Askew, Hannah James and Jenny Hill (who conceived the project).

For lovers of folk - in particular, traditional music - this is a lovingly crafted collection of songs.

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Nick Smithson