Daniel Martin Moore and Joan Shelley

Farthest Field, Ol Kentuck Records ****

The gossamer-like monochrome beauty of Farthest Field demands quiet attention and repays handsomely. American poet Marianne Worthington speaks of the album's "sense of deep stillness and reverence, a matching of physical landscapes to inner moods" in her note on the label website. She could also mention the longing for love and friendship, for community, that permeates these 10 tracks. Kentucky-born Moore has long been a favourite, but his sharing of the stage with singer- songwriter Shelley creates something special. Their harmonies are natural and organic as they ghost each other's respective lead vocals, while the minimalist old-time instrumental settings carry real weight. Worthington contributes four songs, including the mysterious opener First of August, while the achingly lonely To Be Lost Again carries his imprint. A duo to remember. olkentuck.com

Download tracks: To Be Lost Again, First of August