Kevin Bryan delivers his verdict on some of this week's CD releases Martin Barre,"Live in NY" (Wienerworld)- Martin Barre's fortunes have been inextricably linked with those of Ian Anderson ever since he joined forces with the flute playing frontman for the recording of Jethro Tull's second album in 1969, but he's begun to branch out as a solo performer since his old band finally gave up the ghost in 2012, and this excellent live set captures Barre's show at Daryl's House Club in New York in April 2016. The wide ranging set list showcases Tull crowd pleaers such as "Teacher," "Sweet Dream" and "Locomotive Breath," alongside covers of legenday bluesman Robert Johnson's much recorded "Crossroads" and Messrs Lennon and McCartney's "Eleanor Rigby."

Steep Canyon Rangers/Asheville Symphony,"Be Still Moses" (Yep Roc Records)- North Carolina's most innovative roots music practitioners are always eager to embrace any new opportunities to expand their creative horizons which come their way, and "Be Still Moses" is certainly a far cry from the orthodox bluegrass fare which helped to make their name a decade or more ago. The contents find them collaborating with their hometown's symphony orchestra in some memorable re-workings of the cream of their back catalogue, with Philadelphia soul legends Boyz II Men adding their exquisite vocal harmonies to the sublime title track.

Graham Parker and the Rumour,"Live at Trent Poly Sports Hall, Nottingham 1977" (The Store For Music)- The perenially intense Graham Parker and his muscular musical cohorts were operating at something approaching the peak of their performing powers when this gig was captured for posterity at Nottingham's Trent Poly in March 1977. Those discerning punters who were fortunate enough to be present were treated to typically vibrant renditions of trademark Parker creations such as "Black Honey," "Soul Shoes" and his minor Top 40 hit and unofficial signature tune,"Hey Lord, Don't Ask Me Questions."