June Tabor's first solo record is an understated triumph full of good songs, great arrangements, and a crack group of backing musicians led by the guitar playing of Nic Jones. Much of Airs and Graces is pure British folk, and Tabor has much fun with such ancient numbers as "While the Gamekeepers Lie Sleeping" and "Young Waters." The standout track, however, is her version of Eric Bogle's brilliant anti-war ode "The Band Played Waltzing Matilda." Sung a cappella, you can almost...   [ read more ]

CD $17.08

Anyone can argue whether or not something is "definitive" but this compilation does get it as right as can be. June Tabor's long career at the forefront of the U.K. folk movement has been a tenacious and innovative one. This set from Highpoint showcases the many different faces she puts on with style. Of the 15 tracks here, nine of them are traditional songs. Perhaps the most beautiful and provocative of these are "The Water Is Wide," the a cappella "Queen Among the Heather," and the d...   [ read more ]

CD $11.38

Listening to this, it's easy to believe that June Tabor was made to sing these old border ballads, tales of the uneasy coexistence of families in the marches between England and Scotland. Her dark voice is well-suited to the texts, which are often bloody and vengeful, and quite certainly epic -- in some respects, the very essence of British balladry, whether it's "The Battle of Otterburn," with its gloriously textured Kathryn Tickell arrangement, or the demanding {&"The Duke of Athole's Nurs...   [ read more ]

CD $15.18