JACKIE OATES – Lullabies (ECC Records ECC009)

JACKIE OATES LullabiesCovertly perhaps the ‘folk music’ world has taken out shares in Mothercare but then again, maybe it’s just had a case of the ‘January Blues’ as every self-respecting artist appears to have recently kidnapped lullabies and children’s songs with which to regale their listeners. Megson, Pauline Vallance and now Jackie Oates amongst others have decided that the art of the lullaby to gently coerce the ‘ahh’ factor from its audience is what is required to take our minds off the latest monumental government cock-up. On a selection which (quite rightly in my opinion) settles on lesser known poems etc introduces the seductive string tones of Barney Morse-Brown (cello) and the Reykjavik Sinfonia and Jackie herself on viola and octave fiddle. I was surprised and delighted that she included “Junk” by Paul McCartney (a song I first heard performed by John Denver many years ago) one that, as Oates states fits comfortably within the canon of lullabies. In my dotage I can safely say that the ‘folk’ scene…and those of a discerning nature…are well served here and if you’re looking for a soothing, non offending cosh in these politically correct times you’ve come to the right place.

PETE FYFE

Artist’s website: www.jackieoates.co.uk