How To Make Gravy
Paul Kelly
Featured on his 1996 EP, How To Make Gravy
Written by Paul Kelly

Paul is a prominent name in Australian music and has so many great songs to his name - he is a great songwriter and performer and has collaborated with so many people and has written successful songs for so many too. This song is so well structured and is catchy and thoughtful and has become a traditional song for Christmas time. I lov the melody and the great use of slide guitar and the emotion of the lyrics. Just a classic song.

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A Rainy Night in Soho
Pádraig D'arcy (featuring Pa Reidy)
Featured on his 2013 EP, A Rainy Night
Written by Shame McGowan in 1986

This is one of Shane's best songs - so much in it and such a well-written. There have been a few versions released but I really like this one - there is so much emotion and feel in it. It is slowed down and layered and allows them the space to make it special. It is a tune that stays in my head a long time after hearing it - just a great song.

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My Love is Like a Red Red Rose
Eva Cassidy
Featured on the 2008 album, Somewhere
Written by Robert Burns in 1794

Though the poem was written in 1794, it's music took time to set in and ended up using the tune of a traditional song called "Low Down in the Broom". There have been some great version - a favourite being by Eddi Reader, but I like Eva's version too and chose that to share as Ilike her guitar playing on it too. It is a beautiful poem and song.

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Island Home
Christine Anu
Featured on her 1995 album, Stylin' Up
Written by Neil James Murray (Warumpi Band) in 1986

This song references Warumpi Band lead singer's (George Burarrwanga) home up at Elcho Island off the coast of Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory - and I love their version of the song. Christina (a Torres Strait Islander) changed some lyrics to reflect her circumstances and though it is more poppy, it is still strong and is the better-known version. I could have gone for either version, but this one popped in my head first.

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Dark River
Hazmat Modine
Featured on
Written by Leonard Cohen in 1971

Hazmat Modine is a musical group based in New York City and led by multi-instrumentalist singer/songwriter, Wade Schuman. Their music is rooted in blues and also touches on folk, jazz and World music. I came across this as it was being played whilst I was in a record shop and I love the pace and feel of it. Simple and well-crafted.

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First Class Man
Imogen Clark
Featured on her 2021 album, Bastards
Written by Imogen Clark and Colin Hay

Imogen is an Australian born performer who is now based in Nashville. She has 3 albums to her name and has a style that it hard to categorise, though I've seen her described as soft rock and that sort of fits. This was written about her friend and mentor, revered guitarist and award-winning producer Glen Hannah who lost his fight with depression in 2019. It is a collaboration with Colin Hay, both in the writing and performance. It's a well constructed song with good lyrics and strong vocals.

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High Hope
Glen Hansard
Featured on his 2012 album, Rhythm and Repose
Written by Glen Hansard

Glenn is just a genius songwriter and a great performer. He's only released 5 solo albums, 7 albums with The Frames, and 2 albums with The Swell Season - as well as featuring in other collaborations. I couldn't really pick a favourite song of his as so many are good, but this one works for me.

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Without You
Janis Ian
Featured on her 1974 album, Stars
Written by Janis Ian

I have liked so many of Janis's songs, and chose this one from the first album of hers that I bought. A lot of her songs are stripped back and are delicately balanced - this one has more arrangement to it - but it still allows the lyrics to be central. I only saw her live a couple of times - just her and a guitar - two fantastic shows.

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Unbreakable
Jess Hitchcock
Featured on her 2023 album, Unbreakable
Written by Jess Hitchcock

Jess performs a lot with other people (including Kate Miller-Heidke, Tina Arena, Lisa Mitchell, Archie Roach and Paul Kelly) and has gained a good following and is praised for her talent as a performer and also a song-writer. This is the title track from her second album and it talks of overcoming obstacles and letting those trial and error situations really shape the person that you get to become as an adult.

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Secret Little Garden
Lior
Featured on his 2010 album, Tumbling Into the Dawn
Written by Lior Attar

I have seen Lior a few times and he rpoduces some special and intimate shows wher his gentle songs and story-telling capture an audience and create an occasion. He's just released his 6th studio album and has also performed with other performers - most recently as a duo with Domini Forster. I like most of what he does and this track is a good demo of his style.

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There comes a time
Martin Stephenson
Featured on his 1988 album, Gladsome, Humour & Blue
Written by Martin Stephenson

This track is from Martin's 2nd album, but the first I heard of his. I used to go and see him fairly often and every show was a pleasure and different - he is not interested in reproducing the same thing over and over, but is always updating. I have 14 of his albums and had the pleasure of hsanging with him when he visited Melbourne a few years ago. I am sharinf this track as it was the first track that came up when I shuffled his albums.

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Mana Takatāpui
Jen Cloher
Featured on her 2023 album, I Am the River, The River Is Me
Written by Jen Cloher

This is a delicate slow-burner, for the most part. Jen's vocals take prominence against a soft arrangement of guitars and percussion. This track comes from Jen embarking on a journey of reconnection to her Māori heritage, and is an embrace of pride in both heritage and queerness - a creative weaving of traditional and contemporary artistry, brought together with ease.

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You Are My Sunshine
Bryan Ferry
Featured on his 1974 album, Another Time Another Place
Written by Oliver Hood in 1933

This is an American standard of old-time and country music and one of the official state songs of Louisiana. It's a classic, but Bryan's version is a favourite of mine and is tied into some memories that make is special. It's a simple song and Bryan doesn't do much with it, but it works and does build and has good backing-vocals.. I like it.

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Little Bird
Lisa Hannigan
Featured on her 2011 album, Passenger
Written by Lisa Hannigan

I initially heard Lisa as she was in Damien Rice's band and her voice stood out. She started her solo career in 2007 and this is from her second of 4 albums. It's a beautiful song and stems from her looking back over her time with Damien and using his imagary to tell her tale. I love the softness of her voice, but it still delivers what needs to be heard. Great song.

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Up to the mountain
Crystal Bowersox
Featured on her 2010 album, Up to the Mountain
Written by Patty Griffin in 2005

Not sure how I came across Crystal, but she did win American Idol back in in 2010, so maybe she infiltrated at that time. Her style is country, which isn't always my thing, but a good singer/songwriter is all I need. She has a great voice, with an edge to it, and she has power when needed - just a very talented performer with four albums behind her.

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I Will Follow You into the Dark
Death Cab For Cutie
Featured on their 2005 album, Plans
Written by Ben Gibbard

This is from their 5th album and as most of ther songs are goopd, tough to pick one, but this is one that sits well with me when it comes on and stay in my head (in a good way) after listening. It is their most successful song to-date and has won various awards. It is a cheery sounding song, but the lyrics aren't cheery - but it all ties together well. It doesn't sound complicated, but it is very well crafted.

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Let her go
Passenger
Featured on his 2012 album, All the Little Lights
Written by Michael Rosenberg

Passenger is an English indie folk singer-songwriter and he wrote this song whilst based in Australia. He is prolific having released 14 studio albums to date and has a style of his own and an interesting voice. I like him and what he dsoes - he is a talented chap.

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Follow the sun
Xavier Rudd
Featured on his 2012 album, Spirit Bird
Written by Xavier Rudd

As with so many of Xavier's songs, this is a laid-back affair. It is a very positive song that talks to taking the time and outlook to help navigate whatever you are going through. He writes a good melody and this has a great feel and flow to it.

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First Scar
D'arcy Spiller
Featured on her 2020 album, Little Demons
Written by D'arcy Spiller

This is an atmouspheric track from a very talented Melbourne based singer songwriter. She wrote it whilst living in the New York and it stems from an earlier relationship and this song was her letting it go. It's well constructed and is very well balanced.

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Too late for lovers
Gin Wigmore
Featured on her 2009 album, Holy Smoke
Written by Gin Wigmore and Mike Elizondo

This song doesn't really fit in an era - it could be from anytime in the last 40 years. I like her voice and delivery - great musical background - such a full sound. She released 4 albums, the last being in 2019 and is another great New Zealand artist. This is a great sound.

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Colours
Grace Potter
Featured on her 2010 album, Grace Potter and the Nocturnals
Written by Grace Potter

Grace has released 5 albums as a solo artist and 4 with The Nocturnals that she formed in 2002. Other than being a strong singer, she is proficient on guitar and keyboards. Her work is varied but always noticeable - I like lots of her stuff but this is the last one that came up when listening to a shuffled play list. It is a good one to share.

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Show Me The Place
Webb Sisters
Featured on their 2013 album, When Will You Come Home?
Written by Leonard Cohen

The Webb Sisters were the backing vocalists on Leonard Cohen's tours and albums between 2008 and his passing in 2016. They are talented performers in their own right, and I have four of their albums and I like the variety of music they put out. It's a great version of a great song.

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Say I do
Liam Gerner
Featured on his 2013 album, Land Of No Roads
Written by Liam Gerner

Liam has lived and worked around the world and now lives in Melbourne. His songwriting and melodies are great, and he captures a great emotions in his songs - the way story-tellers do. This song is well structured and came on his first album released back in 2013. There's only been a couple of further albums since, and they are much more recent.

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Only a woman's Heart
Mary Black (featuring Eleanor McEvoy)
Featured on 1992's A Woman's Heart album
Written by Eleanor McEvoy

This song has Mary singing with the song's writer on what became an anthem on the album A Woman's Heart where a collection of Irish female performers were re-affirmed or introduced to a new audience. There were 2 further albums released and they make a great collection. I still enjoy this song and appreciate what it generated.

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The Snowman
Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott
Featured on their 2014 album, What Have We Become?
Written by Paul Heaton and Jonathan Noblett

There is very little that Paul Heaton has done that I haven't enjoyed. Since the Housemartins and Beautiful South and everything since, he hits the mark. He's done quite a bit with Jacqui Abbott and they share the load well and have done some great stuff. This song is simple but has a great feel to it and it stays in my head whenever I hear it.

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Lipstick Sunset
John Hiatt
Featured on his 1987 album, Bring the Family
Written by John Hiatt

John is so prolific as a songwriter in many musical styles and has recorded 24 albums from 1974 onwards. He's always been around my senses, but I've never seen him live or been that dedicated a fan, but I like him, and this is a great song that features Ry Cooder on guitar. The album this is on was recorded in 4 days with John just recently sober and looking for a way to continue his career. It very much shows John's talent as a singer and songwriter.

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The sound of white
Missy Higgins
Featured on her 2004 album, The Sound of White
Written by Missy Higgins

This track comes from Missy's debut studio album, and she's released five more albums since then. She's a great songwriter and plays piano and guitar as required but seems happiest on piano. This is a strong song and is a great example of what she can do - my like of this song hasn't faded over the years.

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It Ain't Cool
Will Kimbrough
Featured on his 2010 album, Wings
Written by Will Kimbrough

Will is Alabama-born blues-country singer who has a similar style to J.J. Cale - which isn't a bad thing. This is a laid-back song that rolls along with its cool groove and positive lyrics. This track features on his 7th of 9 albums released since 1999, so he knows what he is doing.

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Lilac Wine
Jeff Buckley
Featured on his 1994 album, Grace
Written by James Shelton in 1950

Jeff's version of this song was on his only Studio album deom his short career before dying at the age of 30. This song has been covered by many people, but Jeff's version has so much to it - he seems to be invested in it and gives it his treatment making it stand out. He gives the song so much respect and feel - it feels like it is his song.

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I Really Don't Want to Know
Broads
Featured on their 2014 EP, Broads
Written by Kelly Day and Jane Hendry

This band arrived and then seemed to disappear - not sure if they are still around but can't find any news if they are. It's a shame as I liked them and got to see them a couple of times. I enjoy gentle harmonies in a song and these two (Kelly Day and Jane Hendry) worked well together. Though they just briefly passed through my world, I'm glad that they did, and I'm glad that I got their 1 EP and 2 albums.

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All of my days
Martha Marlow
Featured on her 2021 album, Medicine Man
Written by Martha Marlow

This is from her debut album recorded with a 17-piece string ensemble and there are some great tracks on it. She is a talent and I look forward to what will come from her. This track has poetic lyrics, and the music lifts the song and create the movement that the words tell.

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Back to the Beginning
Aaron Espe
Featured on his 2017 album , This Time of Year
Written by Aaron Espe and Eric Knutson

Not sure how I first came across this song - it talks of what we would do differently if we could start again and what we wouldn't take for granted. It's a greatly crafted song with the music and lyrics fitting so well together to create a melancholy feel. I am not sure whether the song reminded me of something, but there was a familiarity I felt that made me warm to the song.

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God Bless The Child
Gregory Potter
Featured on his 2012 album, Be Good
Written by Billie Holiday and Arthur Herzog Jr. in 1939

I first came across Gregory on a Jools Holland show and loved what he did. I thought he was a soul singer, but I went to see him live and he was more jazz orientated. He's released 7 albums to date and there are some great songs and covers in there. I love this acapela version of this song - he puts his spin on it, but the magic of the song remains.

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Don't Cry
All Our Exes Live in Texas
Featured on their 2017 album, When We Fall
Written by Hannah Crofts, Georgia Mooney, Elana Stone, and Katie Wighton

This Sydney band features Hannah Crofts, Georgia Mooney, Elana Stone, and Katie Wighton. They don't really fit with a time or place - they seem to be built on a variety of elements. I enjoy their harmonies and they make simple melodies have a lot of character. Though they have been going for 10 years, they have only released 1 EP and 1 album. I like when people don't overdo a song but allow it to stand for itself. This is a great example of their talent and a lovely song.

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Dark clouds
Áine Tyrrell
Featured on her 2015 album, Queen of Swords
Written by Aine Tyrrell

Áine is a strong deeply principled person whose songs usually have a message. Seeing her live is enjoyable and also confronting as you hear her stories and learn her stance. She plays solo and creates a good atmousphere and always delivers something special. This song is one that stays in my head when I hear it, so I chose this one to share.

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I Need Something
Newton Faulkner
Featured on his 2007 album, Hand Built by Robots
Written by Newton Faulkner

Another act that I go and see when he heads over here every 2 or 3 years. He has his own style and knows how to generate a great sound without needing a band around him. He has released 7 albums thus far. This track was the one that made me turn my head and pay attention - it is a great sound.

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Boots of Spanish Leather
Rebecca Barnard
Featured on her 2006 album, Fortified
Written by Bob Dylan in 1963

I have seen Rebecca many times and she does a great Joni Mitchell show and she used to have her Rebecca's Empire band, plus she collaborates with a lot of folks, and runs a choir. She is very active. Each year there is a Bob Dylan tribute show and she often does this song with Shane O'Mara on guitar. I love the song, her version, and Shane's playing.

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I Remember You
Van Walker
Featured on his 2020 album, Ghosting
Written by Van Walker

I've seen Van a few times and he has a few styles he performs. He's a good song writer and for me, he is better live than on record. He doesn't seem to do as much nowadays, or maybe it is out of my sight. To date, he's released 8 albums and, from what I have listened to, they are all strong. When I first heard him perform this song, I thought it was a cover as it seemed familiar - but I liked it then and it still works for me.

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Tomorrow is a new day
Khristian Mizzi
Featured on his 2017 self-titled album
Written by Khristian Mizzi

Kris is a local singer-songwriter who has written some stunning songs. Not sure how I came across him, but I had an album of his before I got to see him live. He's a shy man but manages to hold an audience as he delivers his well-crafted laid-back stories through songs. He's released 3 albums to date and is working on another. This is a lovely song and shows what he does.

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Elmira
East Pointers
Featured on their 2019 album, Yours to Break
Written by Jake Charron, Koady Chaisson, and Tim Chaisson

The East Pointers are an award-winning Canadian band who I saw once doing a great gig at a crap venue. They formed in 2014 and originally consisted of guitarist Jake Charron, banjoist Koady Chaisson, and his cousin, fiddler Tim Chaisson. Unfortunately, Koady passed away in 2022. They have released four albums and there are great songs on each of them. I think this song is a great demo of what they do.

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Mac's Boogie
Dr John
Featured on his 1981 album, Dr. John Plays Mac Rebennack
Written by Mac Rebennack (who is Dr. John)

This takes me back. I remember ordering this album soon after it came out, and it took 3 months to arrive from the US. I remember the excitement I felt when I got it home and had my first listen. It was what I was hoping for, and I loved this track most. I love his style of boogie woogie - played by a man who was born and grew up in New Orleans. He started out as a guitarist before making the piano his instrument of choice. His style shifted over time, but it was always good. I only got to see him live once and it was superb.

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Red sails
Custom Kings
Featured on their 2007 album, At Sea
Written by Nick Vorrath

I first heard Custom Kings back in the early 2000's when they were trying to breakout. They were a different style to what was happening, and they do their thing so well. They stood out. I saw them live a few times and was disappointed that it didn't happen for them. They released a couple of albums and there are a few songs I like on those albums, but this one captures their style well.

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Julian and Sandy
Chris Difford
Featured on his 2008 album, The Last Temptation of Chris
Written by Chris Difford and Boo Hewerdine

Chris is a great storyteller. His lyrics have always stood out from the songs performed by Squeeze and his solo stuff. I don't know who the characters in the song are, but it doesn't matter - I just enjoy listening to Chris's stories. With Boo Hewerdine producing, writing, and performing with Chris on this album, it blends their two styles together very well.

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Purea Nei
Anna Coddington
Featured on the 2012 album, He Rangi Paihuarere (A Tribute to the Late Dr. Hirini Melbourne)
Written by Hirini Melbourne

Hirini wrote this song in remembrance of one of his students who died after going through some adversity. It contains lines from a well-known proverb and is sung in the beautiful Māori language. Anna Coddington is a New Zealand singer-songwriter who has released four albums as well as one with her band, Duchess. This is a simple but beautiful song.

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Still A Friend of Mine
MonaLisa Twins
Featured on their 2017 album, Orange
Written by Mona and Lisa Wagner

Not sure how I found this duo, but they do some great stuff. They have covered a lot of Beatles stuff, but they do all sorts and have a lot of songs that they have written themselves - like this one. They have done so much already - 12 albums, 175+ music videos, 100+ million YouTube views, and 235,000+ subscribers. I like a lot of what they do and am always interested to see what they do next. Hope to get to see them live one day.

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Sun Rises
Rob Snarski
Featured on his 2020 album, Song Gifts
Written by Rob Snarski

Rob is a brilliant songwriter and I like his voice. I've seen him quite a few times and with different supporting musicians - for this song, he performs with regulars Shane O'Mara along Graham Lee adding some steel pedal sounds. There are quite a few songs I could have shared to show Rob's talent, but this is the last one that came up when shuffling a playlist. During lockdowns, people sent their stories to Rob, and he would interpret those stories and then turn them into songs - and this track came about through that process.

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Let It Be Me
Ray LaMontagne
Featured on his 2008 album, Gossip in The Grain
Written by Ray LaMontagne

I was late to hearing Ray, despite him having released eight studio albums. He has a great voice and is a fine songwriter. I think that I knew this song but didn't know who it was by, and later became a fan. I've never seen him perform live, but hopefully one day. It is just a good soulful song.

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Song to the Siren
Rose Betts
Featured on the 2021 album, 'Zack Snyder's Justice League'
Written by Tim Buckley and Larry Beckett in 1967

This song refers to the sirens tempting sailors at sea stems from Greek mythology. Its lyrical style is an example of Larry Beckett's literary inspirations, and stands in direct contrast to Buckley's own more personal writing style. A good version of this song was by This Mortal Coil in 1983, but my favourite version is this one that was put together for the director's cut of Zack Snyder's Justice League. It has the right atmousphere and Rose has her own interesting style that fits so well.

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If It Be Your Will
Antony Hegarty (now known as Anohini)
Featured on the 2006 album, Leonard Cohen: I'm Your Man
Written by Leonard Cohen in 1984

Though Antony is now a female of the name Anohini, I write this about Antony as that is who existed and sang this song back then.
The pleasure of liking Leonard Cohen is that I get to enjoy so many people's versions of his songs. This one is from the 'Leonard Cohen: I'm Your Man' concert in 2005 where different folk performed different Leonard songs. Antony's version was really interesting and he made this very much his song - I love the vibrato in his voice and the interpretation - and the emotion as it builds and builds. A great version of a great song.

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Amen
Anita Lester
Featured on her 2020 EP, Erato
Written by Anita Lester

I have seen Anita perform in shows with others, plus a couple of solo shows - one of which, the below clip is from. She is a very creative person - her art is good, her films are interesting, and her music is mystical. She pours herself into what she does and it comes over when you see her. This song has a hypnotic quality and a mystique that works, and the arrangement is lovely, using the instruments and voices as great layers to build the performance.

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Fall Apart
Adam Cohen
Featured on his 2014 album, We Go Home
Written by Adam Cohen

Adam never really escaped being the son of Leonard, and after recording four albums, he called it quits. I have a couple of his albums and though his father's influence is strong, he writes a good song, and this one is from his last album and reflects where he was at. It is gentle and each note on guitar and voice is spot on. Under the song are parts of Leonard's "Suzanne" melody - which is fair enough, as that Suzanne was Adam's mother.

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Falling Slowly
Glen Hansard & Markéta Irglová
Featured on thie 2006 album, The Swell Season
Written by Marketa Markéta Irglová and Glen James Hansard

Most songs that Glen Hansard is involved in are worth listening too. He is an incredible songwriter and emotive singer. Markéta is a Czech-Icelandic singer-songwriter, musician and actress. Together they perform as The Swell Season and I picked up their album a while back. The album has great songs on it, and I love the way their voices blend together - this one stands out for me.

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I'll Sail This Ship Alone
The Beautiful South
Featured on their 1989 album, Welcome To The Beautiful South
Written by Paul Heaton and Dave Rotheray

I have liked Paul Heaton from the days when he was in The Housemartins (1983), then The Beautiful South (1988), then as a duo with Jacqui Abbot, and also his solo stuff. There are so many styles of song and so many crackers in there. This song is the tale of someone who, with their relationship falling apart, decides to shrug their shoulders and simply move on with life. Not a moping or emotional song - just accepting and how it is. It's a great song and his voice fills it perfectly.

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Tex, Don & Charlie
Whenever it snows
Featured on their 2005 album, All Is Forgiven
Written by Tex Perkins and Murray Paterson

Tex Perkins, Don Walker and Charlie Owen first recorded together in 1993, but I missed all that. Over my time here, I have seen them all indiviodually or in different configurations, but when they get together, it is a great experience - they really gel and make something special. This song gets in my head and stays for a while - it is the pace, feel and melody. I like Tex's voice on most things, and he puts the right spin on this song to make it a choice to share.

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My Friends
The Young Folk
Featured on their 2014 album, The Little Battle
Written by Anthony Furey

The Young Folk were a Dublin band formed in 2011 with a core of Anthony Furey, Paul Butler, Tony Mcloughin and Karl Hand. I saw them when they toured here back in 2018 and really enjoyed what they did. This song is so well balanced and flows beautifully with some lovely harmonies, guitars, and fiddle. I don't know what became of them, but I am pleased that I bought a couple of their albums on the day.

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Ruby Turner
Stay With Me Baby
Featured on her 1994 album, Restless Moods
Written by Jerry Ragovoy and George David Weiss in 1966

I first saw Ruby perform in the early 1980 in Huddersfield, and I became an instant fan. I've bought her stuff over the years and though I've seen her live since, it has been when she has performed with Jools Holland rather than her own shows. This song is such a tough one to take on - to do it well, there can be no weaknesses because this song will highlight them. Ruby does it superbly, and as it is a song I like, this is the version to share above any other.

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Nobody Gets What They Want Anymore
Marlon Williams (featuring Aldous Harding)
Featured on his 2018 album, Make Way for Love
Written by Marlon Williams

Marlon is a rare talent. From New Zealand, his early success was there before he moved to Melbourne in 2013 where he honed his skills and gained a rising following and he toured the world for about 3 years straight, supported many prominent acts like Bruce Springsten, did some acting e.g. featured in Bradley Cooper's A Star is born among other roles, and collaborated with many folk. He's won multiple awards and has releasedc 3 studio albums plus 2 lives ones. I love it when he sings in Maori, but I chose to share this song of his as it shows some of what he is about. And I like it.

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Roslyn
Dan Sultan
Featured on his 2006 album, Homemade Biscuits
Written by Dan Sultan

Dan is an award-winning artist who has been performing for 25 years and is admired for his voice, guitar and piano playing, and his song-writing. This song describes his mother, a member of the stolen generation, removed from her family when she was six or seven. The topics of his songs vary, but he is a proud indigenous man who ensures that the stories are told, and he stands up for his people and doesn't shy away from that responsibility. The styles of his songs varies greatly,and I chose this one because it allows his voice to lead the way as he accompanies himself on the guitar.

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Tied-up House
Jackie Leven
Featured on his 2003 album, Shining Brother Shining Sister
Written by Jackie Leven

I have no idea how I first came to know of Jackie. He was a Scottish folk singer who released more than 20 albums under his own name or his pseudonym, Sir Vincent Lone. He had a varied musical life covering a few genre's and his songs vary in style and delivery. This one, uses his voice in weird way, but I like it - it adds a lot of feel and mystery, and has a mood of it's own.

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Will You Remember Me?
The Milk Carton Kids
Featured on their 2023 album, I Only See the Moon
Written by Kenneth A Pattengale & Joseph Edward Ryan

The Milk Carton Kids are an American indie folk duo who began making music together in 2011 and have released six albums. I first saw them in 2023 on a recommendation and liked them straight off - entertaining chaps, and great song-writers and performers. Quite a few memorable songs from that night, but this one stayed in my head the day after and was the one that came to mind to share.

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I'd Rather Go Blind
Mary Coughlan
Featured on her 2002 album, Red Blues
written by Ellington Jordan, Billy Foster and Etta James in 1967

I love so much of Mary does, and that it made it tough to choose a song to share. I bought my first album of hers (Tired and Emotional) in the mid 1980s and have bought just about everything that she has done since. This is a well covered song and there are some great versions out there, but I love how Mary performs it - it seems more than just performing a song - there is more behind it, but I don't know what it is.

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Truth In Your Heart
Roesy
Featured on his 2010 self-titled album
Written by Alan 'Roesy' Roe

I have only seen this Irish singer/songwriter/painter once, and enjoyed the few songs that he performed. I bought a couple of albums and enjoy most of what he delivers. His debut album was in 2001 and during his career, he has performed with many famous folk as he travels the world doing what he enjoys doing. I know little about him, but I like this song.

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Oh Susanna
Ruthie Foster
Featured on her 1992 album, Stages
Written by Stephen Foster in 1848

This old minstrel song is so well-known, but this version stands out for me. I only saw Ruthie once, and she performed it at that time and it was electric. It has so much character and feel to it - so different to the many other versions out there. Just her and a guitar and all the expression she has for it. It's a great version of a lovely song.

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New Day
Kieran Goss
Featured on his 1994 album, New Day
Written by Kieran Goss

I first saw Kieran as the support act to Mary Black back in the early 1990s - he made a good impression and I bought the 2 albums he had on sale and enjoyed them then, and still do. He has a gentle style and great delivery. His voice is mellow, the picking guitar style is precise, and the gentleness of the melody all work together to produce some great tracks. This one was my initial favourite of his.

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Something's Coming
The Waifs
Featuresd on their 2017 album, Ironbark
Written by Vikki Thorn

I have seen The Waifs perform many times and always leave feeling good about the world - they just have such great energy. I love Vicky's voice and harminica playing, Josh is a superb guitarist, and Donna writes and performs a good song. I often listen to a Waifs playlist and it was hard to pick one song that demonstrates the pleasure of them. I have chosen this one as it has all elements of them as a band and worth the share.

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Wash over Me
Teeks
Featured on his 2017 album, The Grapefruit Skies
Written by Te Karehana Gardiner-Toi

I was at a gig talking to somebody and she talked about this song as being one that was special and that I should check it out. I'd never heard of the song or the artist, but it captured me from one listen. Teeks (real name, Te Karehana Gardiner-Toi) is a Māori soul singer who has been a recording artist since 2017 and this is one of the first songs that he laid down. It has such a feel and depth to it - just a great song from a great singer.

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When it rains
The Ahern Brothers
Featured on their 2017 self-titled album
Written by Steve Grady and Josh Rennie-Hynes

I saw The Ahern Brothers once - when they were the support act for somebody - I bought their album at the gig. It appears that they only existed for a shortish time, so I haven't heard of them since. The duo were Josh Rennie-Hynes and Steve Grady, and they are a mix of the Everley Brothers and Simon & Garfunkel - great harmonies and gentle songs. I particularly like this one - it's a beauty.

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Meenak Bilya (Moon River)
Gina Williams & Guy Ghouse
From their 2018 album, Koorlangka
Written by Henry Mancini in 1961

This is a well known and often covered song, but a good song. I have heard many great versions, but what I love about this one is that it is mostly performed in the Noongar language of the southern corner of Western Australia. Gina (vocals) and Guy (guitar) are a multi award winning duo who are passionate about what they do. They describe it as "their mission to become agitators for a hopeful future, by rewriting the script through song. Because the only way to address intergenerational trauma is to bring healing and invite everyone back to the campfire". Gina has so a pure and beautiful voice, and Guy knows how to arrange and play a song.

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America
First Aid Kit
From their 2014 album, Keep Calm & Chillout
Written by Paul Simon in 1968

I have always liked Simon and Garfunkel and this song. And then I went to see First Aid Kit, who are a a Swedish folk duo consisting of the sisters Johanna and Klara Söderberg. They performed this song and I loved their phrasing and harmonies and their take on the song. Their version is only slightly different to the original, but it is their vocals that won me over. It is hard to like a cover of a song that you have enjoyed for so long, but this one did it.

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Into my arms
Nick Cave
Featured on his 1997 album, The Boatman's Call
Written by Nick Cave

How to choose one Nick song from the collection of stunning songs that he has created? It is hard to put anything before this one. He wrote this while in rehab, and its melancholic lyrics are related to the break-up of his long-term relationship with Viviane Carneiro and his subsequent brief relationship and break-up with English musician PJ Harvey. As a song, it has it all - superb lyrics, great melody, simple delivery, and an emotive performance.

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Asleep
Angie Hart
Featured on her 2007 album, Grounded Bird
Written by: Angie Hart

I have seen Angie a few tomes over the years in various guises. She is most famous for being in the band Frente, but that disbanded before I arrived in Australia - though I have seen the band perform a couple of songs once, but it has mostly been Angie on her own. She's written some good stuff over the years and has a gentle atmouspheric style to her voice and melody. This song is rolls along and carries you with it - it just sits well with me.

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Tua
Stan Walker
Featured on his 2020 album, Live with The Levites
Written by: Stan Walker, Ashton Parson, Michael Jade, Ryan Lewis

A great song, sung in Maori, and talks of Stan's self-reflection, resilience, and finding strength in his own journey to overcome obstacles. It talks of the importance of holding on to one's distant dreams and aspirations, regardless of current difficulties. I love the sound of the Maori language, but without knowing any of the meaning, I have to rely on what I read. The power, control and feel of Stan's vocals are always impressive and this song has all of that. Great melody and rhythm and a powerful performance. (featuring Ibanez Maeva)

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Carolina in My Mind
James Taylor
Featured on his 1968 self-titled album
Written by James Taylor

Written whilst he was in London recording at the Beatles Apple Studio, this is a song about him being homesick - the original recording had Paul McCartney on bass and George Harrison on backing vocals, but the most famous version was recorded in 1976. It has been part of his concerts ever since and is a country/folk classic. The great flow of the guitar, his voice being reflective, and nice backing vocals. It is just a great song.

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Feeling Good
Vika and Linda
Featured on the 1999 album, Two Wings
Written by Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse in 1964

I have enjoyed a lot of their shows over my time and they have so many songs to choose from and so many different styles. I was tempted to choose a gospel song as they do them so well, but then I went for Feeling Good as I like this cover and how they each of them use their voices, and the harmonies are great. And a great big-band sound to back them too. The album this is on was released soon after I had become a fan, so this has memories attached too.

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Shipbuilding
Elvis Costello
Featured on his 1983 album, Punch the Clock
Written by Elvis Costello (lyrics) and Clive Langer (music)

As I'm seeing Elvis later this week, here's an oldy, but a goody. This song was written during the Falklands War (1982) talking of the irony of the war bringing back prosperity to the traditional shipbuilding areas in the UK to build new ships to replace those being sunk in the war, whilst also sending off the sons of these areas to fight and, potentially, lose their lives in those same ships. It is sung with real feeling, and the music is underplayed to allow the lyrics to be the focus - and great piano and trumpet to add more flavour.

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Baptism by Fire
Tom Jones & Jools Holland
Featured on their 2004 self-titled album, 'Tom Jones & Jools Holland'
Written by Jools Holland, Sam Brown, Tom Jones

I was very happy when Tom and Jools released an album together as I am huge fan of Jools and I do like Tom too. The album is great, but I chose this song because it allows both of them to do what they do and the result is a great song. Tom's voice is used to great effect and covers a few shades as required. And good backing vocals in there too.

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Down In Mississippi
Mavis Staples
Featured on her 2007 album, We'll Never Turn Back
Written by J. B. Lenoir in 1970

I think that Mavis Staples has one of the best voices out there. Whenever I have seen her live, I am moved by what she does with her voice. Whatever she does, it is uniquely her sound, richness and tone that results in that voice owning everything it touches. This song demonstrates the style of her vocals - an old song, but a goody. It was tough to pick just one song, but this is the one that came to mind. I've been a fan of hers since I first heard The Staple Singers back in my youth.

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Emma's Song
Sinéad O'Connor
Featured on her 2000 album, Faith and Courage
Written by Sinéad O'Connor

So hard to choose a favourtie Sinéad song. My favourite album of hers is Faith and Courage, so I have chosen Emma's Song from that. I don't know who Emma is or whether she is an amalgamation of people - it certainly describes a complex relationship from maternal to romantic and blurry between that. It has nostalgia, love, loss, regret and hope. It has the sweetness of Sinéad's voice and the emotion that she brings to a song - particularly one that is special to her. It is a simple and haunting melody and it is a great song.

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Cry to Me
Solomon Burke
Featured on his 1962 album, Rock 'n Soul
Written by Bert Berns in 1961

I consider Solomon's voice as one of the all-time best, and I love a lot of his songs - though knowing that he released 38 albums in his 55 year career, there are a lot I haven't heard. I never got to see him live, much to my dismay, but have seen plenty of clips.. Though most of his famous songs were in the 1960s, he was finally inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2001. I was tempted to share Fast Car from his 2002 album ‘Don't Give Up On Me’ but I then landed on ‘Cry To Me’ as I have liked it for so long.

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Bell, Book & Candle
Boo Hewerdine
Featured on his 1999 album, Thanksgiving
Written by Boo Hewerdine

I first encountered Boo when he was playing in Eddi Reader's band. She has recorded a number of his songs, and he tours with her and does solo shows too. He is an incredibly talented songwriter and his poetic lyrics paint great pictures - he has a great gift that he has put to good use. The fact that I like his version of songs I first heard Eddi sing, is not something that I'd expect to say, but he has a level of vulnerability to his voice and sings a great story. This is a beautiful song.

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Ae Fond Kiss
Eddi Reader
Featured on her 2003 album, Sings The Songs of Robert Burns
Written by Robert Burns in 1791

Eddi Reader is one of my favourite performers to see live - I saw her once before I left the UK and several times since being here. She creates a special atmousphere that you can lose yourself in. There are so many songs of hers that I like but when thinking of which to share, this one came to front of mind. It is her take of the Robert Burns poem 'Ae fond kiss and then we sever'. The lyrics are fantastic, the melody fits the mood of the words and the delivery enhances it further. It is a beautiful song.

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Saying Goodbye
Ondara
Featured on his 2019 album, Tales of America
Written by J S Ondara

The first thing to grab me about J.S. Ondara was his unique voice - it is a strong instrument. In this song, his voice has a slight echo applied to it as he sings of parting ways with a loved one. It is a striking piece of work and a catchy song. Not sure what style it is, maybe Americana with a soul layer. I am off to see him for the first time this week - it is a solo show, so I am looking forward to his intepretation of this and other songs.

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Naima
Angelique Kidjo
Featured on her 1996 album, Fifa
Written by Angelique Kidjo

I first heard the sound of Angelique in a record shop in Southampton in 1996. The album playing was Fifa and I loved it then and I love it now. The final song on the album is Naima that she had written to her daughter of that name - who was 2 at the time of writing. I don't know what the song means but I have always liked it - it has a lot of beauty in its delivery. I've seen Angelique perform live on 3 occasions - and that becomes 4 tomorrow. I could talk about how much of her stuff I enjoy, but this post is about songs - and this is one that, though it doesn't reflect the energy of Angelique, it has a great feel.

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Sister Goodbye
Emily Barker
Featured on her 2017 album, Sweet Kind of Blue
Written by Emilie Barker

Emily Barker is a great song-writer and a great interpreter of the songs of others. This song was written by her from the point of view of one of Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s best friends, Marie Knight. The two of them would take off in a big, fancy car, set up their own stage equipment, do each other’s hair and makeup, and then put on a blinding show. Sister Rosetta on the guitar, Marie on the piano, their two voices interweaving in the most fluid and playful way. When Sister Rosetta died, it was Marie who prepared Rosetta’s hair and make-up, for the final time, before she was buried. The thought of Marie saying goodbye to her friend for the last time was the inspiration Em ily to write this song.

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Best Part Of Me
Busby Marou
Featured on their 2017 album, Postcards from the Shell House'
Written by Thomas Busby & Jeremy Marou

I first heard this duo when they did the support for Elton John. They have a very attractive style - laid back, great and catchy melodies. I have seen them a couple of times since and I just enjoy the pace and energy of their sound and their seemingly effortless way. This song is simple and enjoyable, and the video was filmed on Great Keppel Island up in Queensland - where they wrote and recorded most of the album.

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Waiting For My Real Life To Begin
Colin Hay
Featured on his 1994 album, Topanga
Written by Colin Hay

Colin has written many songs and they are mostly crackers. This is a favourite of mine, and having seen him a few times live, this song always gets a great reaction - it's a beauty. He wrote this song after Men at Work had ended and his career wasn't going as he had hoped. He was hoping for a big break to kick-start things, but then realised that this was his life and he should stop looking back, but embrace it and be free of the past. The song is written about the version of him that existed before this realisation - while he was determining what to do with the rest of his life.

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Both Sides Now
Seal
Featured on the 2019 album, Joni 75: A Birthday Celebration
Written by Joni Mitchell in 1966

Joni Mitchell has written so many great songs, but this one stands almost at the top of the pile for me. It is appreciated by many and has been covered and used multiple times. When I watched the concert put on for her 75th birthday (2019), Seal came on and performed a version that feels faultless to me. He's got the intonation and feel and he allows the song to shine. It was hard not to pick Joni singing it, but a good cover is worth a listen.

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Think about you
Sam Burke
Featured on her 2008 album, Sam Burke & The Wifeys
Written by Tiffany Eckhardt in 1998

I can't remember whether I saw Sam Burke perform as a busker or she was supporting somebody - it was a lot of years ago. I bought one album and it featured a couple of songs that stood out to me, but I selected this one because it stays in my head after each listen. It has great harmonising (starting half way through, during the chorus) and it always makes me stop what I'm doing to listen and sing along (in my head). Not sure why this song gets me, but I love it.

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Tennessee Whiskey
Stan Walker & Parson James
Featured on their 2018 single release
Written by Dean Dillon & Linda H Bartholomew in 1981

I like a lot of what Stan Walker has delivered, and last year I came across this single that he recorded with Parson James, and it blew me away. Such great voices and harmonies and the song is gorgeous anyway. Stan always surrounds himself with great musicians and creates some fantastic sounds that cover a few genres. Stan is a proud Māori who has done many songs in his native tongue. I don't know much about Parson James - other than he does a great job on this song.

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Dublin Rain
Gallie
Featured on his 2023 album, Dublin Rain
Written by Darren Gallagher

I have seen Gallie many times - lots of venues, lots of lineups - every show a classic. The man has so much talent as a songwriter, guitarist, arranger, and singer. He is the complete deal and it amazes me that he isn't bigger than he is. His songs tell good stories - captivating and real - he captures tales with the right words, great melodies and a lot of feel to them too. He has written about many things, and this is one is about missing home - though he loves it here, Ireland is in his heart.

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Thorn in My Heart
Kim Richie
Featured on her 2013 album, Thorn in My Heart
Written by Kim Richie

I first heard Kim when she was the support for Eddi Reader a few years ago. I've seen her a couple of times since when she's visited, and it was beautiful on both occasions. She is a great songwriter with a wonderful feel for music and melody. Her sweet voice makes songs roll along and she adds the required emotion to any song. She is simply a delightful performer and I love this song, though there were a couple of others than tempted me, but this won out. In second place was 'Once in your life'.

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Love Like Blood
Mollie O'Brien
Featured on her 1998 album, Big Red Sun Blues
Written by John Hiatt in 1983

Not sure when I first heard Mollie O'Brien, but she is a rare talent - love her voice, song writing, and song choices. Picking a song to share was tough, but I love her version of this John Hiatt song - it shows what her voice can do for a song and it is so well produced. Always happy when she randomly comes up when I shuffle my music selection. This is a great cover. I just shuiffled through some Mollie songs online, and there isn't a bad one there - what a talent.

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Took The Children Away
Archie Roach
Featured on his 1990 album, Charcoal Lane
Written by Archie Roach

This song is very moving as it tells the story of Archie's experience of being forcibly removed from his family and moved across the country and put in the home of a white family - as happened to thousands of indigenous kids. I saw Archie perform this song several times, the most moving being when he sang it in Federation Square on Sorry Day (2008). So a great song and an important song - it will remain with people and be a reminder, and I've already heard it covered a couple of times.

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Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)
Melanie
Featured on her 1970 album, Candles in the Rain
Written by Melanie Safka

Following news of her passing today, I want to share my favourite Melanie song. She was a hippy to the core and was quirky and interesting and remained authentic throughout her time. This song captured me when I first heard it and I loved the choir (the Edwin Hawkins Singers), the rhythm of the verses and the power of the chorus. The song describes what she felt as she looked out at the sea of people in the audience when she played Woodstock in 1969.

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You Will Surely Love Again
Chris Wilson
Featured on his 1994 album, Live at the Continental
Written by Chris Wilson

This week marks the 5th anniversary of the passing of one of my all-time favourite performers, Chris Wilson. Fantastic harmonica player and singer, played a few instruments well, good song writer, and a top bloke. I have seen him perform more than anyone else, and every time was a pleasure. He just created the best experiences and I miss having him around. Recordings don't do him justice, but this is a live recording of a gentler number and a favourite.

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Jersey Girl
Andy Cowan
Featured on his 2001 album, 10:30 Thursdays
Written by Tom Waits in 1980

I've always liked this song and in 2001 I heard Andy Cowan do a version that has become my favourite. Andy used to be performing quite a lot in Melbourne as he drifted between the blues and jazz scenes. He was temperamental, but that is because he cared about the music and it being heard. I used to enjoy when he'd stop a song to tell somebody to shut up asnd then start again. I haven't heard mention of him for a few year, but regardless,he did a great version of a great song.

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What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?
Alma Zygier
Featured on Paul Kelly's 2021 album, Christmas Train
Written by Frank Loesser in 1947

This is a beautifully crafted song with a graceful flow to the melody. I've liked it since hearing Ella Fitzgerald do a version back in the 1980s. I found myself humming it the other day and I think that is due to hearing Alma perform it in her Christmas show with her dad, Willy Zygier, on guitar. I love most things that Alma does, and this captures some of her magic and vocal control. She is also one of those talents who is better live than on record, so see her if you can.

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