Album: The Staves, Dead & Born & Grown (Atlantic)

Three sisters, close harmony, a songwriting blend of Sandy Denny and the US West Coast (Joni, CSN&Y etc)… What's not to like?

Actually, for all the Staves' attachments to the English and American folk traditions, the most vivid tonal connection they make is with the early works of a pair of Canadian sisters, the McGarrigles. D&B&G is delicate and unaffected but clever and soulful – a balm and an inquisition. Refreshment for bruised ears.