Had a good week? Mine couldn’t have started any better….

On Monday night I went to the Concert Hall to see Randy Newman. He was on fine form. Higlights……Life Isn’t Fair, The Great Nations of Europe and Marie + a very funny rap on Toy Story. It broke my heart to be in London on Wednesday knowing that Randy was playing there and I had to miss it as I was interviewing some very special guests for the show. More of these fine women over the next few weeks.

However, there’s something about Mary…..

When I got the word that we were expecting a familiar visitor I had the warmest feelings of nostalgia. Last January there was a great run of artists in the studio during Celtic Connections. One particular day I was lucky enough to welcome Mary Gauthier. So it was a real joy to know that she was coming back to see us.

The last time Mary had told me she was writing and recording a concept album. Tricky to pull off. For some reason, whenever these two words are spoken I usually think of this.

Needless to say there’s no pomp here. If you want to know what Mary was forecasting back in January 09 you can archive the interview here. It’s nice when an artist promises you something then delivers it almost within a year. Mary’s new album……

……..is about to come out. She’ll be in session on Friday joined by her guitarist, Ed Romanoff and also by Barry Walsh on piano who had, apparently, never heard the songs before! However not only do we have Mary singing but I’ll also have a long chat with Mary about the huge emotional journey to make The Foundling as well as the physical trips north to Toronto to record the record.

Also…….. Avett Brothers, Local Natives, Bob Dylan, Phosporescent and George Jones.