The Wheels of Life Dolphin Records****: There's a cool fermentation process informing Liam Clancy's first solo CD in 10 years.

He's jettisoned the polished performer persona that characterised his duo performances with the late Tommy Makem, leaving an emotional honesty that's compelling. Amid the nine studio tracks and three live outtakes here, standouts include a cover of Shane MacGowan's The Broad Majestic Shannon, and Ambletown, a quiet, subtle alternative to the chest- thumping version of Home Boys Home, so beloved of balladeers throughout the 1960s. Shenandoah is given a particularly sympathetic treatment, too, but it's Clancy's duet with Gemma Hayes on Roseville Fairthat whispers of Clancy's continuing musical curiosity. Duets with Tom Paxton, Donovan and Mary Black, and superb musical accompaniment from members of Danú, add further colour to the mix. www.liamclancy.com

Download tracks: Shenandoah, Ambletown