Kieran Goss: "Worse Than Pride" (RTE)

It would be easy and wrong to dismiss the music of singer/ songwriter Kieran Goss as soft padding for an ageing generation. Goss is a keen lover of melody and understatement and the thoughtful, muted production values of this collection serve to place his style firmly in the late-night profound section. But there is a quiet, insistent spell to these 11 tracks that leaves them turning over in your head long into the night. That said, Goss is no great original. There are echoes of Mary Chapin Carpenter, Crowded House and others in his crafted songs of life's curved paths. Producer Pat O'Donnell presents these well-observed snapshots of a life marginally less ordinary in a rich setting of echo-laden vocals, gently jangling guitars and round reassuring bass. Check out accomplished tracks like Cast The Stone, Running For A Reason or Out Of My Head to catch his soft drift.

By Joe Breen

The Great Western Squares: "Almost Sober" (Independent Records)

The second collection from the best new country band in Dublin's northside builds on the promise displayed by their 1997 debut, Judas Steer. It is better recorded, has better songs and is better performed, but they are still some way short of the perfect pint. Gary Fitzpatrick's songs are growing in stature; Don't Tear Yourself to Pieces and the title track are both suitably drenched in lachrymose dissolute atmosphere. Guitarist Sean Erraught's two tracks are more interesting, particularly Small Town Reel; add Oona White's smoky vocals on I'm Not A Man (of Temperance) and a valiant attempt at Gram Parsons's Luxury Liner and the Squares have every reason to be pleased with their progress.

By Joe Breen

Jim Lauderdale: "Whisper" (BMG)

Jim Lauderdale has been something of a dilettante in Nashville terms, flirting with country and other genres while amassing a number of credits (and a few bob) for songs covered by others. Whisper is a fine album by any yardstick, pulsing with strong songs and sharp playing in the hard country tradition. While he is no slouch in the songwriting department, Lauderdale enlisted the help of a number of heavyweights just to make sure - Harlan Howard, Melba Montgomery and the awesome Buddy Miller were among those called upon - but two of the best songs, the hardcore tearjerker title track and the rough-edged seduction of You're Tempting Me, are solo offerings. It is a collection which whets the appetite for his show in Whelan's next Monday.

By Joe Breen