Dubbed the “Queen of American folk music” by Martin Luther King Jr in 1961, Odetta Holmes was one of the most influential recording artists of the 20th century and an important voice of the Civil Rights Movement. A powerhouse vocalist who toured well into her 70s, often performing from a wheelchair in later years, she released some 25 albums over her impressive career. By the time she died on December 2, 2008, Odetta had amassed a vast catalogue of folk, blues and spiritual songs and it’s from all corners of this that the songs of Beautiful Star: The Songs Of Odetta are drawn.

Thankfully, unlike many a tribute album, the songs are treated with huge respect and delivered in much the same style and spirit that Odetta blessed them with, so there are no cringeworthy rap or RnB versions to try and excuse. It is an understated, respectful take on some of the most powerful, yet simple, folk music ever written and a perfect replacement for those scratchy old recordings which suffer badly at the hands of modern hi-fi.

Not only is this a perfect chill-out record it will also enrich your soul if you buy a copy as all profits from sales of the album will be split evenly between two charities chosen by Wears The Trousers in recognition of their incredible work on behalf of women. The Fawcett Society is the UK’s leading organisation campaigning for equality between women and men, making real differences in women’s lives by creating awareness, leading debate and driving change. The Women’s Resource Centre works to bring women’s organisations together, helping them to be more effective and sustainable.

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