Ebb n Flow Claddagh Records***

Debutante Noriana Kennedy brings a refreshingly lighttouch to this Appalachian/Irish collection. She's wisely corralled some fine musicians into the studio, including Gráda's Gerry Paul; American old-time fiddlers Stephanie Coleman and Cleek Schrey; double bassist Paul O'Driscoll; and, from Lúnasa, producer Trevor Hutchinson. The title is aptly chosen, as pacing is what it's all about on Ebb n Flow. From the strong opener, Ola Belle Reed's I've Endured(known to many from Tim O'Brien's cover version), to the closing waltz, Momma Blues, it's clear that Kennedy isn't out to prove anything more than the fact that she has exquisite phrasing, a songbook as wide as a southern porch, and good friends who share her penchant for trading songs and tunes. Her cover of Damien Dempsey's Beside the Seais a revelation, unveiling the heartbreaking intimacy lurking beneath the heady original. A notable debut. See noriana kennedy.com

Download track: I've Endured