Karine Polwart has always been an adept folk artist, and This Earthly Spell is a perfect example of the capability of its creater. With a perfect balance of traditional and innovative music, it is an album that sells itself and will not disappoint any listener looking for a melodic folk album from a female artist. The songs are reminiscent of early Rusby, and display an extensive talent for a variety of different instruments, never failing to catch the attention and stay there - even my boyfriend, not particularly interested in folk music, has found himself borrowing this CD and singing along in the car! This is an album for everyone, and is recommended for all, even at the £15 price label I paid for it, it is worth every penny. There is certainly more to come from Karine and this album shows surely what is to come in the future.