Full Review

Catherine MacLellan – Church Bell Blues

Canadian Catherine MacLellan’s ‘Church Bell Blues’ is an album I’d been aware of for a while but never heard until recently; originally independently released and then picked up by True North, it’s finally, and deservedly made it’s way to Europe.
‘Church Bell Blues’ is a low-key acoustic singer/songwriter disc of real quality; built around acoustic guitar and her soft and clean vocals, the 12 songs are thoughtful, intelligent pieces wrapped in beautiful melodies.

While comparisons aren’t always helpful, she shares many attributes with Patty Griffin or Dar Williams, and the link to Griffin is an easy one to make as she phrases both her words and melodies in similar ways.

Even though it’s a low-key disc, the instrumentation and songs are all varied with her own guitar backed by mandolin, organ, occasional electric guitar and percussion; the songs move between acoustic folk and gentle country/roots – it’s a tried and tested method, but Catherine MacLellan’s voice, gentle approach and excellent songs are compelling and make sure she stands out from the crowd.

The album is a very easy listen, with dreamy melodies and excellent accompaniment throughout, and highlights include the opener ‘Dreams Dissolve’, the up-tempo ‘Emily’s Song’, and the memorable ‘Long Way Home’. While the songs appear to be personal and introspective, she presents them in a way that allows the listener to relate to them on their own level.

While Catherine may be a new name in a huge sea of singer/songwriters, this is an album that really can stand up with some of the best in the genre. Very highly recommended.