Fairport Convention: The Wood & The Wire (Woodworm Records)

I was pleasantly taken aback recently when, on entering a shop, I heard the beautifully painful voice of Sandy Denny on the PA. The late, great, former Fairport singer was with the band during its 1970s heyday - and though the names have all changed many times, with the exception of bassist Dave Pegg and guitarist Simon Nicol, the show goes on for their hard core of fans such as those who turn up at their annual Cropredy Fair every August. This pleasing collection of mostly original songs owes much to the English tradition. There's not much of a rowdy element; it is all very polite, but there are warmth and melodies that tug at your memory and the playing remains as solid as ever.

- Joe Breen

Doc and Richard Watson: Third Generation Blues (Sugar Hill)

The burnished baritone is a little frail now, still strong but subject to a little flutter here and there. The legendary Doc Watson is, however, still picking at 76. For this collection of simple and honest versions of mostly blues standards he is joined by grandson Richard, who is no slouch when it comes to racing off a nimble acoustic guitar solo or six. Richard is the son of Merle, Doc's musically accomplished son, who died in 1986. It is clear that picking is bred in the bone, because Richard provides resolute support for his grandad as he rolls his 1950s/1960s folk style over songs such as the wonderful, spiritual, Precious Lord Take My Hand.

- Joe Breen

More CDs reviewed in tomorrow's Weekend supplement.