Jacqui McShee’s Take Three – A Folk Gem That Still Shines (2013)
Alright, let’s talk about Jacqui McShee’s Take Three. Released in 2013 on JAG Records, this album feels like a warm cup of tea on a rainy day—comforting but with just enough spice to keep you hooked. Jacqui McShee, the legendary voice behind Pentangle, teams up with some killer musicians like Gerry Conway on drums and percussion, Alan Thomson on guitar, and her own unmistakable vocals to deliver an album steeped in folk tradition but with its own modern twist.
The genre? Folk, World, & Country—but don’t let that label box you in. This isn’t your average sing-along-at-the-campfire folk record. It’s deeper, richer, and way more soulful. Tracks like “Blackwaterside” and “Willow Weep For Me” stick in my head for different reasons, and I’ll tell ya why.
“Blackwaterside” is one of those songs that sneaks up on you. You think it’s just another traditional tune, right? But then Jacqui’s voice comes in, soft yet piercing, and suddenly you’re transported somewhere else entirely. The arrangement is simple—just her voice and Alan Thomson’s delicate guitar work—but it doesn’t need anything else. There’s something haunting about how she sings it, like she’s telling a story only she knows the ending to. And honestly? I’ve had it on repeat ever since I first heard it.
Then there’s “Willow Weep For Me,” which flips the vibe completely. This track swings between melancholy and hope, kinda like life itself. The interplay between Gerry Conway’s subtle percussion and Thomson’s guitar creates this gentle momentum that pulls you along. Jacqui’s delivery here is smooth as butter, but there’s an ache in her voice that makes it unforgettable. Like, you can almost picture her singing it late at night, lost in thought.
Other standouts include “Nottamun Town” and “We’ll Be Together Again,” both of which showcase the band’s tight chemistry and respect for the source material. But what really makes this album special is how it balances tradition with personality. These aren’t just covers—they’re interpretations, little love letters to songs that have stood the test of time.
Reflecting on Take Three, I’m struck by how timeless it feels. In a world obsessed with TikTok hits and auto-tune, this album reminds me that music doesn’t always need bells and whistles to hit hard. Sometimes, all you need is a great voice, solid players, and stories worth telling.
Oh, and here’s the kicker—I didn’t expect to enjoy “Factory Girl” as much as I did. Turns out, it’s got this quirky charm that kinda grows on you after a few listens. Who knew a song about factory life could sound so… fun? Go figure.
If you’re into folk music or just want something real and heartfelt, give Jacqui McShee’s Take Three a spin. Trust me, it’s worth it.
