Tompkins Square has released today the startling debut of Irish blues singer and guitarist Muirreann Bradley, and it’s certainly a late contender for album of the year.

Bradley breathes fresh new life into a bag full of classic folk and blues numbers from Elizabeth Cotton’s “Shake Sugaree” to Blind Blake’s “Police Dog Blues” with her fluttering, crystalline-like vocals and fluid fingerpicking. The nimble but precise fretwork Bradley displays is nothing short of awe-inspiring, and reflects a deep appreciation of the original blues pickers and the revival artists of the ’60s that were initially inspired by them. For instance, her version of “Candyman,” sounds like an evolved amalgamation of Mississippi John Hurt’s initial recording of the tune, as well as Donovan’s version, from his pre-pop days.

What’s also awe-inspiring is just how utterly dazzling of a guitarist and singer Bradley is for someone of her age. Tompkins Square first signed Bradley when she was just 13, after the founder, Josh Rosenthal, happened across a YouTube video of her playing. Due to delays from the pandemic, the album took three years to complete and couldn’t come out until close to her 17th birthday. Furthermore, each track on this album was recorded completely solo and live, often in just one or two takes. Regardless of her age, the Irish musician proves herself on every single cut to be one of the most proficient and soulful fingerpickers and blues singers of our current era. The press release for the record even features a flattering quote from picking legend Stefan Grossman, stating that “the torch has been passed.”

The legacy of blues and folk guitar is in very good hands. We’re all excited to see what great things Bradley ‘s musical future has in store.

Click here to get your copy of this wonderful album on vinyl, digital or cassette.

-KH