Kate Rusby & Kathryn Roberts

Originally released in the U.K. in 1995, this album captures the duo just after they'd won the prestigious Young Tradition folk award. They bring a freshness and fire to the mostly traditional, familiar songs, which is no mean feat, Roberts's sweetness tempering Rusby's roughness well. It's Kate Rusby who emerges as the more distinctive voice here. Her version of "Recruited Collier" is a joy, and, both solo and with the Poozies, her star continues to rise, while Roberts has settled for less. The knowledge of what's happened since doesn't lessen the enjoyment of this record, however. If anything, this glimpse into the past shows two people laying a solid foundation for the future, and when you consider they were only 20, it's a remarkable achievement of youth. --Chris Nickson