ROOTS

Latest CD releases reviewed

JOSE GONZALEZ
Veneer Agenda Records
****

It's amazing the sound that one man and his guitar can make. Sneaking in while no one was looking, Jose Gonzalez, the Swedish-born son of Argentine parents, commits his inner thoughts and feelings to posterity on a debut that is impressive proof that less is often more. But Veneer grows with each listen, its whispered sadcore passions, multi-tracked vocals, odd tuningsand percussive finger-picking building an intense and compelling soundscape. Comparisons to early Elliot Smith are inevitable but could be useful for anyone trying to reference this elusive talent. Check out the bitter Lovestain, the lovely Heartbeats or the closing Broken Arrows, the only track with another instrument -- a predictably lonely French horn. www.josegonzalez.com Joe Breen

THE NIALL TONER BAND
Mood Swing Avalon Records
***

In his extensive and informative sleeve notes, Niall Toner makes a passing reference to the "Prophet in his own land syndrome". He doesn't dwell on it, but Toner has carried the banner for all things country in Ireland for some time - playing, writing, singing, DJing - without gaining any great reward. I doubt if Mood Swing, a lively and varied selection of country's many shades, will change that situation. Equally, I doubt if that will faze Toner, who defies his advancing years with boundless enthusiasm and love of country. He can also write a great tune, such as The Blues Overtook Me, which guitarist Clem O'Brien sings in a wonderful, high, lonesome voice. There are many other highlights among the 15 songs, not least the title track, which underline Toner's wide knowledge and skill. www.nialltonerband.ie Joe Breen