Jennys wail on their roots (From Stroud News and Journal)

Jennys wail on their roots

CRITICALLY acclaimed Canadian rootsy threesome The Wailin' Jennys are to hit Stroud next week as part of a national tour celebrating the UK launch of their debut album, 40 Days.

The band have become darlings of both the Canadian and American roots scene and have been compared to the likes of Be Good Tanyas and Po'Girl, who played in Stroud last autumn, with their sweet, harmonic approach to their work.

The Jennys are soprano Ruth Moody, mezzo Nicky Mehta, and alto Annabelle Chvostek. They play an informed mix of original and traditional tunes that visit a variety of roots styles, focusing on harmony but grounded by a moving and intricate instrumental base.

Nicky is a folk scene veteran (her debut album, Weather Vane, was nominated for a 2002 Canadian Music Award for Outstanding Roots Recording), as is Ruth, who had been a member of the Juno-nominated roots act Scruj MacDuhk. Annabelle joined after the departure of founder member Cara Luft

The trio are a bona fide Canadian sensation. In February 2002, they showcased at the North American Folk Alliance to shoulder-to-shoulder crowds. Artistic directors from festivals across Canada came knocking, and the Jennys suddenly found themselves looking at a jam-packed summer tour schedule.

When 40 Days was released in America last year, it was an instant hit with critics and fans alike, being hailed across the States as one of the finest roots records of the year, full of sparkling original compositions and delightful traditional jaunts.

The Wailin' Jennys play at Stroud's Subscription Rooms on Friday, February 4 at 8pm. Tickets, priced £8.50, are available from the box office.