Kami Thompson

You could accuse the Thompson family of an embarrassment of riches when it comes to musical talent. Richard and Linda Thompson are bona fide English folk icons, son Teddy continues to impress and now daughter Kami enters the spotlight with this debut release. The instantly recognisable silvery tones of Richard's guitar are often heard, while Teddy, Sean Lennon, Matt Johnson and Lucy and Martha Wainwright are also featured. Nine self-penned compositions are joined by a fine cover of George Harrison's "Don't Bother Me." The standard is generally high, though "Gotta Hold On" is lyrically banal. "Nice Cars" is witty and catchy, and was actually recorded by Linda for her 2007 album, Versatile Heart. Thompson's voice may lack a little of the gravitas of her folks, but it's an appealing instrument that's nicely showcased by the full but never fussy production. This is a promising beginning.