The latest CD releases reviewed

THOMAS DENVER JONSSON The Lake Acts Like an Ocean Kite Records ***

Funny the hold the US of A holds over Scandinavian musicians, particularly the deep thoughtful types like Thomas Denver Jonsson.

This is his third album (the previous two featured the likes of Rosie Thomas and Damien Jurado) of whispered folky intimacies and rich lyrical sketches, encased in muted guitar-led settings that have much in common with such luminaries of the American indie folk movement as South San Gabriel.

Neil Young's more introspective spirit is also referenced in the 14 tracks, but it is Jonsson's Swedish fellow countryman, the director Ingmar Bergman, who comes most to mind in these delicate reflections on light and shade ( The Borderand Like Friends Falling in Love) and quiet unassuming instrumentals (Sacha Distel). www.thomasdenver.com  - JOE BREEN

TIFT MERRITT Live from Austin, Tx New West ****

Squeezed in before Merritt releases her long-awaited third studio album in a few weeks, Liveis an excellent showcase from 2005 of one of the best young singer- songwriters to emerge in the Americana tradition over the past decade.

Merritt writes songs drenched in country soul with the spirit of Dusty Springfield never far away, though she can also swagger like Jagger, as on Shadow in the Way.

Whether armed with a Gibson SG or a big acoustic, Merritt's diminutive cherubic stage presence oozes exuberance and conviction, her rocking four-piece band providing edgy support in front of the live TV audience.

Listening to these songs it's surprising how many have a warm familiarity, including Stray Paper, Neighbourhood, Virginiaand Good-Hearted Man. Also available on DVD http://www.tiftmerritt.com  - JOE BREEN

Download tracks: Stray Paper, Virginia