The latest releases reviewed

GREEN ON RED BBC Sessions Maida Vale Records ***

"Sometimes we showed up for history and sometimes we really just couldn't be bothered." Dan Stuart, one half of the pivotal duo who masterminded Green On Red's steady path to oblivion in the late 1980s/early 1990s, is dewy-eyed in his sleeve-note reminiscences of this US west coast band who could have been, and should have been, but never were, a major force. But they clearly had an eventful time and even made some very notable Neil Young(ish) country rock during their torrid time together. The other half of inspiration was guitarist Chuck Prophet, who has gone on to a reasonable solo career. These 19 tracks were culled from various sessions for the BBC during their frequent visits to Europe; while some way short of a hidden gem, they reveal the twin sides of the shambolic and the brilliant. www.greenonred.net JOE BREEN

Download: Fading Away, Zombie for Love

MOONSHINE First Run Secret Records ***

This welcome album of American and Irish roots music comes laden with a ringing endorsement from renowned folk-rock producer Joe Boyd: "I have always welcomed music that rescues me from old- codger-they-don't-make-records-like-they-used-to crankiness. This music is made like they used to. I love the grizzled heart of it." He's right. There is nothing remotely noughties about Moonshine's collection of Old Timey and Irish - its live feel and simple, rough arrangements of string and bow convey a refreshing authenticity. First Run is also remarkable for coaxing Johnny Moynihan, a genuine Irish folk legend (Sweeney's Men, etc), onto an album for the first time in 30 years. Indeed, more of his signature gravelly singing would have been apt, but typically he shares the spotlight with Lena Ullman and Frank Hall, neither of whom match Moynihan's distinctive character - although Ullman does come close. JOE BREEN

Download: Johnson, Ain't Gonna Work Tomorrow