I never quite know how to approach records like these. Records by great, revered artists coming towards the end of their days. I sometimes expect we're all supposed to bow down before them without even listening to them in order to get instant cred from others in the music fraternity. We understand it and deserve an instant badge of cool. Reflected glory.
These are silly, unworthy thoughts of course. Just listen to the music and see and say what you think of it. The record in question here is Archangel Hill, the latest album from Folk Legend Shirley Collins .Collins has become with the passing years one of those legacy artists. Someone who represents more than she is.
Like Pharoah Sanders, Aretha, Johnny Cash, Bowie. She represents a pure state and somehow seems beyond criticism. Fortunately Archangel Hill on playing it over the last few days, seems effortlessly to be just that. It's joy itself.
Named after a hill near Collins' home in Lewes, Sussex, it's a walk in English countryside. Making her way steadily towards her nineties, Collins voice is cracked and veined now, but in the wonderful way that Cash's was in his late years.
Some traditionals. Some variations on Folk favourites, this is testament to experience. A 'third act' as Mojo's review aptly puts it. Slot her next to Cale and Eno as great artists who still have it and from whom we can learn.. A wonderful record.
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