Anybody familiar with traditional English folk music knows Waterson: Carthy is a true treasure of the genre, and on Broken Ground, they do very little to disparage that fact. In fact, if anything, they have continued to expand on their sound with the contributions of Saul Rose on melodeon, who truly goes some distance in filling out the sound that has been largely comprised of only an acoustic guitar and a fiddle. Once again, the arrangements here are exceptional, with Eliza Carthy emerging as an even more accomplished vocalist and violinist. From the gentle flow of “Raggle Taggle Gypsies” to the poignant “The Ditchling Carol,” strong harmonies, memorable melodies, and hypnotic instrumentals make this collection engaging from start to finish. “The Bald Headed End of the Broom,” which features the Phoenix New Orleans Parade Band, is a fine example of Waterson: Carthy’s distinct ability to make music that is both studied and infectious. – Matt Fink
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