Latest CD releases reviewed

KIERAN KANE, KEVIN WELCH AND FATS KAPLIN
Lost John DeanDead Reckoning/Compass

Anybody who knows the pedigree of these three US musicians will not be surprised that this little gem is packed tight for the most part with fine singing, great playing and memorable songs. Kaplin is an acclaimed multi-instrumenalist whileWelch and Kane are noted singer-songwriters; the heady combination of all three is the hallmark of this album, especially the taut, edgy duet on Postcard from Mexico, the flying fingers of Mr Bones, and the sublime beauty of I Can't Wait. The music is steeped in the folk-blues tradition, though only the title track is actually a traditional tune (and what a pumped-up version it is). Both Kane and Welch offer memorable tracks, while their covers are right on the money. www.deadreckoningrecords.com   Joe Breen

HACIENDA BROTHERS
What's Wrong With Right Proper

Close your eyes and wander into a dimly lit bar, smack out in the wilds somewhere near Tucson and let your ears do the walking. And there, playing their honky tonk country and western soul are the Hacienda Brothers. It could be the late '60s/early '70s. The style is unhurried, the music heartfelt but understated. There is no straining for effect, but they can also be a little too laidback for their own good. Veterans Chris Gaffney (vocals and accordion) and Dave Gonzalez (guitar and vocals) are the principals, with support from steel guitarist David Berzansky, his lonesome notes colouring most tracks. Songwriting legend Dan Penn produces with a characteristic light touch, ensuring that nothing clutters Gaffney's weathered vocals and the primitive sound behind him. www.haciendabrothers.com   Joe Breen