Rachel Taylor-Beales is a multi instrumentalist (guitar, banjo, sax, keys) singer songwriter from, oh so many places. Currently based in Cardiff, but much travelled between the UK and Australia where she spent 4 years travelling the south east coast. Dust And Gold is the follow up to her Brilliant Blue, and Red Tree albums.

At the crossroads of folk, jazz, roots and blues, but dominated by Rachael's plaintive vocals and predominantly understated sound, it's an alt Welsh/Aus take on Americana.

Recorded by guitar virtuoso Dylan Fowler, the album was recorded mainly in 'live takes' and has a campfire storyteller feel that you can imagine playing out well under the stars.

Beautifully played and presented, Dust And Gold should appeal to those with an interest in Americana or the folk scene. A shimmering thing of beauty, but ultimately perhaps lacking in commercial appeal.

***

Review by Pete Whalley