Compilations are a tricky thing. Some complain that they're always hit and miss affairs, whilst others like me embrace them for the chance of getting to know artists you normally wouldn't come across by.

BEARDED LADIES is such a compilation: with highs and lows but always interesting to listen to. Put together by Jane Weaver (she also features on one track) at the behest of indie label Finders Keepers Records, it's a female-singers-only record that tries to find a kind of ethereal quality both in the styles and voices of these acoustically based songs. Perfect for rainy nights like this one I'm having over here. Let Susan Christie sing you about a Rainy Day.