Abbreviated Quotes

‘Capturing moments in life where emotion and nature intertwine to create memories is not easy.  For Carey this seems to come naturally, as sunlight, sound and the wind that blows off each season brings with it melancholic moments of sadness and love.’

Tony Lawless, Tradconnect

‘North Star is infused with a reverential honesty and comforting warmth that so many musicians in the same genre simply fail to master and, for the benefit of those in the cheap seats, I state once more that Kyle Carey is the real thing.’

‘There is a delicate sensuality in her delivery that, combined with her songwriting skill, should soon see her at the forefront of contemporary Celtic music.’

‘North Star is lilting collection of originals from a gifted Scottish folksinger who also proves to be a strong writer. If you like such artists as Nanci Griffith, this is sure to please.’

‘North Star is a quiet triumph.’

‘US born singer-songwriter Kyle Carey has a pleasing voice, which she wields with deft assuredness and gentle charm. Her music, a hybrid form that she describes as Gaelic Americana, owes its special qualities to Carey’s life-long study of Scottish Gaelic music, language and culture.’

‘North Star is a lovely, gentle, slow-grower of an album with enough edge to maintain the interest from start to finish. I’m off to track down a copy of her first album: no greater praise.’

‘The twelve tracks on North Star have a light meditative character and connect exactly with the beautiful landscapes that adorn the folding cardboard sleeve. Immigration and desire are predominate themes.’

‘On her recording North Star Kyle offers graceful and thoughtful storytelling on her original songs, tales which range from a spooky story of emigration in Wind Through Casper to a song of love gained and lost through changes of season and heart on Northern Lights.’

‘With her lovely, soft voice Kyle sings lyrics as if they are fragile porcelain figures. In some songs on North Star Kyle makes me think of the Irish folksinger Mary Black and her sister Frances, who navigate similar musical waters in their work.’

‘A voice to die for.’

‘I had a chance to listen to North Star in one sitting this morning, and I’m as much in love with it as I was Kyle’s first album!’

‘Kyle Carey is delicious!’

‘Kyle Carey is in fact–great.’

‘North Star is great CD.’

‘I’m in LOVE with Kyle Carey’s North Star–just in time for my ‘best of the year’ list.’

‘North Star has a brilliant sound. A very well-balanced CD.’

‘Lovely stuff—really.’

‘North Star is a superb new album.’

‘Love the new Kyle Carey’s North Star. Lots of good songs, it’s not hard to play great music.’

‘Fabulous. Absolutely outstanding.’

‘Beautiful songs, beautiful sound, beautiful voice, beautiful emotions… the more I listen– the more I’m in love.’

‘With beautiful vocals, masterful accompaniment, and a far-reaching vision, Kyle Carey is making songs that look forward to the next hundred years of American and Celtic tradition.’

‘The songs on North Star are all very beautiful, as are the arrangements. Moreover, the songs are made even stronger by the fantastic contributions of guest musicians.’

‘North Star is a superb effort and sure to be one of the best releases of 2014. It picks up where Monongah left off and takes on another musical journey that Kyle so capably directs.’

‘Kyle’s latest album North Star is one of those special albums that offers its own inherent magic. Once heard, you’re captivated.’

‘Carey’s voice is a thing of great beauty and gentle power, and her songwriting goes from strength to strength.’

‘I just love her voice.’

‘North Star exceeds Kyle’s highly successful debut Monongah…the instrumentation and vocal harmonies are superb.’

‘North Star is a must-have album from a must-hear singer. ‘

‘Kudos to Kyle!’

‘Just Lovely.’

‘Kyle’s music is superb.’

‘North Star is a lovely album to listen to.’

‘Carey’s songs follow exactly the right tone and take us on a wonderful journey through a fictional Celtic American landscape where elements of Irish and Scottish folk perfectly blend with americana elements.’

‘Kyle sings in a beautifully clear voice and the accompaniment of fiddle, banjo, mandolin, dulcimer, viola, cello and guitars help to lift the songs onto a higher level.’

‘Carey merges two traditions well in her recording North Star, drawing on hints of folk tales to create contemporary stories and staying true to intent while adding to interpretations of traditional and contemporary covers.’

‘The pure, warm voice of Kyle in combination with the beautiful acoustic accompaniment is inviting and most compelling, the melodies and writing far from superficial. Kyle effects me just as the sirens did Odysseus.’

‘North Star is an excellent example of trans-Atlantic music, featuring a talented vocalist and songwriter as well as stellar instrumentalist from the bluegrass, American folk and Celtic music scenes.’

‘I’ve been enjoying North Star immensely. So much so that I left the CD in my home player for Kyle’s on-air interview!’

‘Kyle’s new album North Star is beautiful. The singing, production, sound and songs are all superb.’

‘Brilliant.’

‘North Star, over its twelve tracks, focuses and pays respect to the folk tradition, maintaining story and spirit over and above musical dynamics, yet it is enticing and educational in equal measure.’

‘Carey’s distinctive vocals, provide a strong bridging point as they seem to effortlessly unite sound and style.’

‘Kyle Carey creates a trans-Atlantic bridge between audio influence with her self-described Gaelic-Americana style on North Star, her most recent release, guiding the music through both American and Celtic acoustic traditions.’

‘Each track on North Star is special in itself, whether it is the turn of phrase or a melodic twist, Kyle Carey has surpassed herself in bringing her thoughts and dreams to life through a soundscape that positively emphasizes the languid intensity within.’

‘Carey holds a storyteller’s line and gift in the singing of these as well as the writing, leaving space of the listener to make his or her own way into the stories.’

‘Kyle’s debut set a very high standard but she has leapt to the challenge and carried it off in her own unique way along with the support from a stunning guest line-up.’

‘North Star is one of the great releases of this decade. Everything works. Her vocals are more stretched and exploited as there are tracks where she lets those pipes loose.’

‘Endearing and enduring folk – highly recommended.’

‘Kyle’s lyrics flutter back and forth between aching sadness and sheer beauty. Her words are haunting, rich in emotional undercurrents, regional imagery, and folklore. Each song in her albums—the first titled Monongah, the acclaimed second North Star—move seamlessly from the hills of West Virginia to the cliffs of the Irish coast.’

‘Carey’s songs are the result of a thorough study of the roots of American culture and traditions, which included learning the old dialects of Scotland and Ireland.’

‘North Star is an album of deep resonance, of great thought and the perseverance to make it happen, Kyle Carey has seemingly pulled off and impossibility.’

‘Kyle’s songs have a lilting, haunting beauty that features and augments her vocals.’

’North Star like its celestial subject, glimmers in the distance waiting to touch you.’

‘A transatlantic fusion is quite the highlight of North Star in the way that Carey has been able to merge the influences into a blend of relaxed charm in the follow up to her 2011 debut Monongah.’

‘As astronomers will know, the North Star is the closest to the north celestial pole, a point by which travelers can chart their course. Musical voyagers should set their compass to Carey’s.’

‘North Star is a jewel, it even surpasses the quality of the excellent debut CD Monongah—the vocals being of exceptional quality. But also transcends the guidance of a largely mainstream product.’

‘Splendid vocals.’

‘A very successful symbiosis of Americana, traditional Irish and Scottish Gaelic folk-poetry. Highly recommended for fans of the material of ladies as Nanci Griffith, Laurie McClain and Diana Jones, if you ask us.’

‘Carey has made an impression with her albums, her qualities as a songwriter and her beautiful voice.’

‘Celtic songs and American country music are two different things that just do not fit together. Whoever is convinced of this opinion is now taught better by Kyle Carey.’

‘Alaska-born Kyle Carey’s debut alum Monongah was one of the best releases of 2011, and 2014’s follow-up North Star more than matched it.’

‘For those of you who like their music on the acoustic, folky side, North Star is a definite yes for your collection.’

‘Kyle’s music opens you up to dreams and pleasant fantasies.’

‘North Star is truly a beautiful album. Every track is serenely imagined, performed and pitched, leaving a lasting impression of tranquility, melody and beauty.’

‘Kyle’s music is beautiful, very beautiful. There is not the slightest obsequiousness or anything that annoys.’

‘Immersive music, and so beautifully arranged and played so well that you always hear new details. Beautiful. An absolute must.’

‘Kyle possesses beautiful, evocative vocals.’

‘Kyle’s album North Star intricately binds together music from the USA, Ireland, Canada and Scotland in a striking way.’

‘North Star offers straight though tasteful proof of Kyle’s ability to merge together the American and the Gaelic tradition in a personal and elegant way.’

‘North Star is a lovely and relaxing CD is sure to please Kyle’s fans.’

‘North Star is a collections of beautiful music that makes the world a little nicer for me.’

‘North Star is a harmonious, fine-boned thing, just as melodic and melancholy as it is beautiful, with an acoustic, natural sound and relaxed atmosphere. Make your life a little more beautiful. You only have to close your eyes, and Kyle Carey will do the rest.’

‘North Star has a soft and nice sound. An interesting album for folk music fans.’

‘Carey has talent to burn as a songwriter, and a mature, clear voice in which to deliver her stories—more or less tales with some intriguing characters.’

‘America is no longer young, but it’s not ancient, either. With Monongah, Carey draws a cry from the collective roots of our nation and seems to span millennia with potent words and a uniquely tender voice.’

‘Kyle’s voice has the perfect amount of warmth, with no trace of artificial roughness. Though the lyrics have little to do with her life, the songs are genuine.’

‘Monongah is an impressive recording of principally Americana with the Gaelic influences that have crept into Kyle’s style. It has received recognition and awards in the US and rightly so. Outstanding.’

‘Kyle Carey represents an interesting crossroads of Celtic Americana (which she refers to as Gaelic Americana). In her gentle modest way she represents both a well traveled path, but also innovation.’

‘A bit like President Obama, I feel that Ms Carey is a ‘nice’ person. It’s not that I know her personally of course but judging her on the merits of Monongah I feel that all is right with the world.’

‘Monongah is a beautiful disc! Delightfully charming! ideal for entertaining the soul in the coming cold and dark evenings of late autumn with a good whiskey, or (why not?), a hot tea in hand.’

‘Monongah is a particularly captivating subtle folk CD with a special blend of American and Celtic (Scottish / Irish) folk. Beautifully sung and accompanied with a nice variety.’

‘A spell of true enchantment effortlessly pervades Monongah.’

‘Magical’ is the mot juste for Monongah. Assured, confident, charming and irresistible, it sticks to the CD player like glue, as does the finger to the repeat button.’

‘Superior American folk.’

‘Kyle Carey brought Christy Moore back into my life. Her album, a masterpiece, Monongah creates a deep journey for transcendance in a wounded world.’

‘Kyle is a talented singer/songwriter. Her beautiful voice, and melodic songs provided a most enjoyable evening.’

‘What is striking about Monongah, besides the beautiful and genuine voice of Carey, is undoubtedly the successful interplay between roots music and Gaelic tradition , a combination of ingredients full of charm that makes a significant contribution to the success of the various songs.’

‘An enchanting debut, young American Kyle Carey succeeded with Monongah.’

‘Monongah and fits very well with her rich, soft voice. Carey provides a very strong debut with Monongah. It will be interesting how this musician develops. More than a fine album.’

‘Kyle Carey possesses a beautiful voice, and passion emerges from the tracks. Monongah is folk particularly well done.’

‘Carey is a true storyteller, and takes its musical inspiration from the Appalachians, from American folk traditions from the Celtic traditions. Monongah is a gem of an album.’

‘Kyle’s charmingly delicate voice is the first thing that will capture your attention. Serious stories are transported in relaxed music that becomes an expression of a very tender love of life, especially in the darkest hours.’

‘Kyle Carey’s music and voice are soft, warm, soothing and calming.’

‘The largely self-penned songs on Monongah are all very beautiful, and Carey herself is a particularly sensitive singer.’

‘Ms Carey injects personable warmth into everything she does and, with that warmth, she defrosts the coldest of hearts (and reviewers have very cold hearts). Monongah is an album that compels you to listen, it’s as simple as that.’

‘I’m in love with Kyle Carey! I’ve got her CD playing over and over again in my car. Can’t wait to share her songs on my program.’

‘Kyle came with Craig Werth and gave an outstanding performance. The songs selected were wonderful and heartfelt. Both Kyle and Craig are warm and generous with their discussion with the audience creating a nice connection.’

‘Monongah is a calm record, but one of a very high level and despite the Irish approach, one can also call several of the songs examples of American Singer/Songwriter music and thanks to the excellent vocal work of Kyle, this album is definitely highly recommended.’

‘A transatlantic mix that reminds me a bit of Mary Black re-located to Kentucky via Mayo. Monongah is an album with many great moments.’

‘Monongah has ranked highly among critics and it’s easy to see why. Coming on vocally in a manner not unreminiscent of Nanci Griffith at her peak (especially on the title track), Carey has crafted a debut release both rich and deep.’

‘Monongah is a lovely debut album I look forward to playing again and again.’

‘If you love original music that will stand the test of time then Kyle Carey’s Monongah is for you.’

‘From the moment Kyle stepped onto the stage, all talking ceased. Her songs were full of passion, evident both in her voice and on her face. It was an evening to remember.’

‘Kyle is at home with Scottish Gaelic, but mixes this effortlessly with American folk, reflecting the massive immigration of Scots to the American continent since 1650. Monongah is a debut that leaves a taste for more.’

‘An alluring voice, superb playing and haunting lyrics to hook any casual listener, Monongah is an album that must be experienced.’

‘Kyle Carey warmed the audience with the sincerity of her music, combining her authentic ‘roots’ compositions harkening back to an earlier day with a voice that is most beguiling.’

‘In Kyle’s music Irish influences that she was looking for, are evident, but there are indeed also American roots and country perceptible.’

‘Monongah is a grand CD!’

‘Sometimes I just like to listen to music while floating on a cloud. Kyle Carey offers just the right setting to do so, with her debut album Monongah.’

‘Kyle is a brilliant singer/songwriter and with these guys on her side Monongah has become one of my favourite debut albums of the year.’

‘Kyle Carey blends Celtic and Appalachian music to tell compelling stories with her alluring and mesmerizing vocals.’

‘Monongah features first-rate performances by Carey and a group of seasoned musicians, as well as some of the most imaginative songwriting you’ll hear anywhere.’

‘There are times, few and far between, when a singer’s voice is just perfect and when they’re building an album they do the sensible thing and leave themselves plenty of musical space to show it off. Kyle Carey’s debut album Monongah is one of those times. Carey draws from poetry and traditional American songs to bring an album full of contemporary folk songs that you’ll struggle to dislike.’

‘Quite an extraordinary lady and musician, with a firm grasp on all things Celtic.’

‘Carey’s vocals are calm and gentle, yet warm and rich. Mongonah is a very pleasant CD.’

‘Kyle Carey takes us, with this acoustic debut, on a dreamy musical road trip that shuttles with grace between folk and more celtic oriented influences.’

‘A bright new face to the Celtic music scene, Kyle Carey’s debut album Monongah is a refreshing collection of originals which blend Carey’s own Irish and Appalachian roots.’

‘Kyle Carey represents the true vision of a transatlantic artist.’

‘Monongah is a real gem of an album.’

‘Carey calls her marriage of Celtic and Appalachian, Gaelic-Americana. She may not have actually invented the genre, but she’s certainly one of its finest exponents.”

‘Monongah is a lovely treat, beautifully produced, with gorgeous arrangements, well worth checking out.’

‘Like discovered treasure, you’ll find Monongah a rewarding experience.’

‘Kyle’s lyrics are those of an accomplished poet with a love of history, and her gentle, clear singing relaxes into the songs with maturity and confidence.’

‘Lovely. A woman who has certainly followed her love of the language of music.’

‘Monongah is a sheer delight of an album, strong songs, great musicianship and a voice that delivers free spirit.’

‘Stand-out and already in rotation is Kyle Carey’s Monongah, a lovely album.’

‘Monongah is music as it’s supposed to be. Soothing music, and a sweet, enchanting voice. Well deserving of our Album of the Week feature.’

‘One of the most gifted singer-songwriters I’ve come across in a long time.’

‘A lovely tone of voice and songwriting style.’

‘This CD is easily one of the best works of acoustic music in 2011. Few artists have struck this type of chord with me with their debut release, but Kyle Carey has put together something very special with Monongah.’

‘Monongah’ is a delicate disc that won’t tire the ears, and will delight those who appreciate sweetness and melancholy.’

‘Mesmerizingly beautiful.’

‘Kyle Carey is a modern folk artist, with just the hint of an Irish accent. Her arrangements feature her beautiful alto voice and her fine guitar playing.’

‘Monongah is a graceful disk to listen to, supported by Kyle Carey’s lovely voice, with melodies that get stuck in your head. Anyone that loves traditional Irish music will appreciate this album.’

‘Kyle Carey has very cleverly synthesized two different styles into her own musical language, which likely over time, will also become her trademark. Both the innovation, and respect to tradition found in Monongah compliment each other perfectly.’

‘Kyle Carey is drawn to stories, ones that may come from people who stand a bit at an angle to the immediately obvious.’

‘Produced by Donogh Hennessy (Lùnasa, Lumiere, Sharon Shannon Band), Kyle Carey’s Monongah liberally mixes Appalachian, Cape Breton and Scottish influences, and features a stellar supporting cast.’

‘Kyle’s voice is compelling and her songs have a strong narrative style, drawn from her knowledge of literature. There can be few debut releases to rival Monongah. Kyle Carey has made her mark.’

‘Kyle’s voice is soft but strong, and her original songs are uniformly excellent. Here’s hoping for more from her before too long.’

‘Monongah is a lovely album from an Irish American who draws influences from the Yupik of Alaska, Cape Breton, and Ireland which has been a big part of her life.’

‘Monongah is a classic and historical folk record from an interesting and promising artist.’

‘Suffice to say North Star is superb. Superb production of Seamus Egan, the musicians who back Kyle are great, and it’s beautiful to see that she is slightly reminiscent of Kate Wolf.’

‘It is the beautiful voice of Kyle that unites the whole of North Star, sometimes approaching the Americana folk singers. A gorgeous voice, varied songs, those who appreciate folk music will enjoy it.’

‘Kyle’s songwriting is strongly influenced by Irish and Scottish tradition and her themes revolve around emigration and longing. Her gentle voice is kept well up in the mix throughout while the delicate accompaniment is first class. North Star is an impressive second album.’

‘Kyle Carey has one of those distinctive voices of old and mezzo-soprano, that touches you and permanently makes a home in your ears. Mrs. Carey sings not only sings wonderfully, she also writes excellent songs on this her second album–North Star, recorded by Solas producers Seamus Egan and with the aid of a whole squad of excellent guest musicians.’

‘Gaelic Americana singer and songwriter Kyle Carey shows her love for Appalachia in a new music video for her song “Let Them Be All Reprise.” Inspired by the movie, O Brother Where Art Thou, Kyle’s video shows imagery of the open fields, white dresses, and baptism to go along with her gospel-like melody. Her background in folk music and Gaelic blended to form her unique genre of music full of lyrical-like poetry and Americana melodies.’

‘Kyle Carey’s second album – North Star follows and builds on the great success of her debut album – Monongah. Having cut herself a niche styled as ‘Gaelic Americana’ a mix of Gaelic and Applachian influences, this new album is clever mix of songs in both English and Gaelic.’

‘After her debut Monongah Kyle Carey confirms her prowess as singer and songwriter in North Star with 9 original songs, supported by some of the finest musicians and singers from Scotland, Ireland and the United States. She excelled my high expectations.’

‘Produced by Irish-American musical legend Seamus Egan of Solas, North Star is a must for any fan of Loreena McKennitt, Gràda or Gaelic Storm.’

‘North Star is an album that is genuinely, in my view, little short of sublime, a simply wonderful album rich in melodic master-touches and delightful lyrics – even if you don’t understand the language at times. The feel, the ambience, the beauty carries through and Carey carries it off with confidence, poise and power.’