The latest releases reviewed

SAM BAKER
Pretty World Sambakermusic.com *****

This is a remarkable album. It is the work of a survivor, someone who came so close to death that grasping every fragment of life is everything. As he says on his website, "all we've got is this one breath. And then, if we're lucky, we have the next breath." He should know. Sam Baker was a Texan college graduate travelling the world when he was caught up in a train bomb blast in Peru in 1986. Now 53, two years ago he released his first album, and now comes Pretty World. There are lots of influences, not least the gritty poetic voice of Guy Clark and the stories of Raymond Carver and Richard Ford. Baker picks from all to create something that buzzes with truth and honesty framed by alt.country melodies, arrangements of earthy elegance and a voice of gravelly grace. Hear him at the forthcoming Kilkenny Rhythm & Roots Festival. www.sambakermusic.com

Download tracks: Sweetly Undone, Broken Fingers, Pretty World

CHATHAM COUNTY LINE
IV Yep Roc ****

This is the sound of a band growing up, stretching themselves - armed with confidence and a compelling bunch of songs. As the title implies this is the Raleigh, North Carolina, outfit's fourth collection, and it's fascinating to hear their development from a traditional bluegrass combo into a band at ease with whichever road opens up to it. The key is the songs, ballads and acoustic rockers alike, of guitarist Dave Wilson, the willingness of his three fellow musicians to play their part and the light but influential hands of producer Chris Stamey. There are a number of highlights: the fierce passion of Birmingham Jail, two beautiful and affecting heart-warmers, One More Minute (with Caitlin Cary on vocals) and Sweet Eviction, and the insistent rhythms of Let it Rock. Another act lined up for the Kilkenny Rhythm & Roots Festival. www.chathamcountyline.com

Download tracks: One More Minute, Let it Rock, Sweet Eviction