Album Notes

Jodee James sings the ancient tales and timeless themes of love, longing and mystery. Jodee's earthy vocals have been described as touching and intimate, beautiful and flowing, achingly romantic; conjuring the very essence of tradition, whether of this century or ages before us. Nobles, shepherds, lovers and inspiring heroes all come to life in Jodee's music.

Always fascinated by ancient legends and family lore, Jodee says "it was my father who suggested I sing Welsh folk songs and that held for me a key. It unlocked something inside me. I was able to combine my love of times past, with all the mysteries of lore, tradition and emotion. In reaching through from this side of the sea, I see my ancestral land from a different place, from a different perspective, yet with no less pride or emotion."

Her new CD "Two Shores", brings together Welsh traditional and original songs, in a mix of solo and guest-accompanied tracks. The listener will find a 6th century nursery rhyme, birds as messengers and champions, a love song inspired by a magical courtship, the story of Rhiannon and her husband Manawyddan the giant from writings of the ancient Mabinogion, a girl much too lazy to be bothered with love, and songs of hiraeth - that unquenchable longing in us all. Jodee is joined by Clarence Ferrari on fiddle (tks 2, 5, 8, 11) and lap steel guitar (tk. 7); Mike Hemberger on bass (tk. 6); Don Jennings on acoustic guitar (tk. 6); Tom Lenahan on percussion (tks. 2, 5, 8); Dave Leszcznyski on harmonium (tk. 12); Arlene Muzyka on percussion (tks. 6, 9) and Gina Tlamsa on flute (tks. 2, 6, 8).

Jodee tours solo singing and accompanying herself on guitar, as well as with Cady Finlayson on fiddle and Arlene Muzyka on percussion and vocals. Other recordings include Dreams (2005) and Little Birds and Quiet Places (2001).

For more information, please visit: www.jodeejames.com