Review: “Secret Signs” by The Bow Triplets
Artist: Bow Triplets
Album: Secret Signs
Year produced: 2010
This new CD by the Bow Triplets does not disappoint. “Secret Signs” is a joy to listen to, and I must say, I have always enjoyed the sound that this band puts forth. Brendan Wade plays the flute, guitar, whistles and uilleann pipes, Heidi Sigfalk is on fiddle, viola and guitar and Stef Sigfalk plays mandolin, banjo, guitar, concertina and fiddle. All three contribute to the vocals, which lends a nice mix to the arrangements. You’ll also hear Joe Eisenburger on bass—a frequent contributor to the band’s efforts.
Favorite tracks here include the first, “The Blacksmith”, which is full of emotion, “Be Like The Sea”, a melodious tune, and “Icarus”, which is a simple song that reflects on the popular myth. Truth be told, I just loved the album, and with 17 tracks, there is plenty to listen to. One of my favorite things about this band is that they manage to always sound like themselves without being predictable. Each track offers an interesting glimpse into the talents these musicians have; sometimes featuring one of them, sometimes blending them all together. It’s a lovely mix.
This is the band’s fifth album, and with each new release I have liked them more. While some bands deteriorate and get lost trying to find themselves, the Bow Triplets only get better and more focused. Mixing traditional songs, contemporary music and original compositions, it’s a satisfying blend to listen to. The CD itself is described as “Irish meets Norse”, which is an able description. It also lends a unique thread to the music that sets it apart from your average Celtic fare.
I’m always happy to give this band a listen. And I’m never wanting afterward. See for yourself.
Catherine L. Tully specializes in writing about the arts, lifestyle and travel. She is the Owner of 4dancers, a blog for those who love dance, and Editor for Freelance-Zone, an award-winning site for freelance writers. Catherine also reviews music for Celtic MP3s Music Magazine.
Review: “Sands of Aberdeen” by Jed Marum(with Hugh Morrison and Mason Brown)
Artist: Jed Marum
Album: Sands of Aberdeen
Date: 2008
I had never had the pleasure of listening to Jed Marum prior to this assignment, but the words of the title track “kiss my cheek and I awaken” are metaphoric of the inspiration that touched me while reviewing this collection of works sung by the poetic balladeer.
Singer/songwriter Marum is truly a wild emerald of the American West with family roots in County Kilkenny, Ireland. His ability to capture moments of beauty from his own experience and express them poignantly through song is the very definition of talent.
“The Way Your Earth Moves” is a loving embrace for a full three moments of solace. This beautiful song was the result of Marum driving through a New England dairy farm at sunset. Traditional songs like “Broom of the Cowdenknowes” showcase the skill and musicianship of Hugh Morrison, Mason Brown and the five Lonestar Stout project players contributing their instrument talents. Brown’s banjo makes cowboy lore of “Flora, the Lily of the West.” The ethereal flute intro to “Willie Coleman” is met with a happy-go-lucky accordion soliloquy tempered by violin mastery.
If you love American folk music with a twist of Scots and Irish, it’s right about time for a sound walk through “The Sands of Aberdeen”.
Dionne Charlet is a freelance writer based in Greater New Orleans. She is a contributing writer for Where Y’at Magazine and reviews music for Marc Gunn’s Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. Dionne runs the Cast Aways Open Theatre Troupe and performs with her fellow Cast Aways volunteers at Ren faires, sci-fi cons, charity venues and festivals throughout the Gulf Coast and beyond. Mrs. Charlet also works as an Outreach Coordinator for the Humane Society of Louisiana. You can contact Dionne at SHIATARA@AOL.com.
Review: “Waken The Echoes” by Locklin Road
Artist: Locklin Road
Album: Waken The Echoes
Year produced: 2009
I’m a fan of any CD that has “Raggle Taggle Gypsy” on it, I must admit. So this album was off to a good start for me once I saw that on there! The best part is that the other songs were also excellent. Sheri O’Meara’s rich vocals add a lot to the tracks here, but the arrangements and musicianship are also top notch. The band is a trio, but on this CD there are two other musicians who contribute, so you’ll hear a number of different instruments, such as the bass guitar, mandolin and bodhran.
You’ll hear “Danny Boy”, “Amazing Grace” and other heartfelt songs. O’Meara even contributes some originals to the mix, which add a bit of depth and interest. I would classify the band as Celtic Folk, and they stay pretty squarely within the genre on this CD. Favorite tracks include “Johnny I Hardly Knew Ye”, “Sing Cecilia” and the band’s rendition of “Black Is the Colour”.
The tone of the album is pretty even, and there is a tight feel to the songs that tell you these are not amateurs playing here. The songs ebb and flow naturally and with ease. The three part harmonies are actually almost unnoticed as they don’t announce themselves–they seem to just happen. You’ll occasionally hear bluegrass or country music underpinnings, but not so much that they pull your focus away from the Celtic sound. All in all, a lovely album that was obviously well planned.
Catherine L. Tully specializes in writing about the arts, lifestyle and travel. She is the Owner of 4dancers, a blog for those who love dance, and Editor for Freelance-Zone, an award-winning site for freelance writers. Catherine also reviews music for Celtic MP3s Music Magazine
Review: “Exodus: An ElectroCelt Journey” by John McGaha
Artist: John McGaha
Album: Exodus: An ElectroCelt Journey
Year produced: 2008
This was a very interesting album. Ambient Celtic music that is reminiscent of Enigma at times, yet completely its own style. A sprinkle of Gregorian Chant here, a lively Celtic melody there, all with a “dreamlike” haze over it so that it feels a little magical. This is perfect music to space out to, meditate to, or kick back and have on in the background. It can easily serve as a focal point or accompaniment, depending on your mood.
You’ll hear some flavors that are far from Celtic, as there are Arabic and Nordic influences present here; but this isn’t a mish-mosh of styles thrown carelessly about. McGaha instead manages to keep a current running throughout the CD that pulls it all together—despite the unusual stylings and mixture of sounds. There was flow.
The different tracks make it hard to pick out favorites, since comparing one to another is difficult. I loved the sleepy, sexy vibe of “Dervish”, but there are many tracks to explore here. I’d guess that it depends on your mood which one you would gravitate toward at any particular time. The CD wasn’t too “New Age” for me, and though it is somewhat experimental in scope, it doesn’t veer so far off the path that you find yourself in unfamiliar territory. On the contrary—it’s more like you are in a familiar place; but in a dream.
I’d have to say I really enjoyed this CD.
Catherine L. Tully specializes in writing about the arts, lifestyle and travel. She is the Owner of 4dancers, a blog for those who love dance, and Editor for Freelance-Zone, an award-winning site for freelance writers. Catherine also reviews music for Celtic MP3s Music Magazine.
Review: “The Music Of Scotland” by Two Men In Skirts
Artist: Two Men In Skirts
Album: The Music Of Scotland
Year produced: 2009
This is a very different album! I felt like I was at a musical about the Scots since the voice of Baritone Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews has such an operatic quality. In fact, there is an opera background there when you look at his history, so really it should come as no surprise. Even so, not too many artists in this genre hail from such a formal training ground when it comes to singing.
The vocals are backed by Pianist Jim Stevenson-Mathews, and the combination is a good one. Simple, yet quite entertaining. It just goes to show you that you don’t need a million instruments and compex arrangements to have a good CD. Sometimes less is more, and this is a perfect example.
The CD is a mixture of traditional tunes and other favorites. Anyone who loves to go and see live musical shows and who is into Scottish music and culture will no doubt find this one of their favorite albums of all time. Tracks such as “My Love is Like a Red Red Rose” and “Loch Lomond” show off how well the duo can infuse emotion into the songs, but there is a lively streak as well, with songs such as “Wee Deoch ‘an Doris” adding a bit of punch to the mix.
Catherine L. Tully specializes in writing about the arts, lifestyle and travel. She is the Owner of 4dancers, a blog for those who love dance, and Editor for Freelance-Zone, an award-winning site for freelance writers. Catherine also reviews music for Celtic MP3s Music Magazine.
Review: “The Bridge” by Marc Gunn
Artist: Marc Gunn
Album: The Bridge
Year produced: 2010
Mix American and Celtic, folk and blues, new and old–and you will have a peek inside Marc Gunn’s latest effort, “The Bridge”. The CD starts off with the title track, and it is heartfelt. I loved it–you can just feel the passion coming through. Next is “Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea”, and it’s such a departure from Gunn’s typical fare that I was genuinely surprised!
This made me excited to see what else the album had in store, and I must say, it was a tour through many different influences. I thought of it as Gunn’s musical history–even that of his current home. I enjoyed the fact that you could hear the impact of his move to New Orleans pop through here and there. It was fascinating to see the unveiling of what formed this artist, and although I am sure there are more ingredients than there was room for, it does give the listener plenty to think about in terms of Gunn’s background.
An upbeat version of “Black Velvet Band” and a crisp rendition of my favorite, “Wild Mountain Thyme” are among the standout tracks here, but each and every one of them is crafted expertly. Simple acoustic accompaniment fills the tracks, but I have never heard the likes of how he plays on ”Healy Pass”. It is tremendous. Gave me chills.
Gunn never does anything halfway, and this CD is no exception.
Catherine L. Tully specializes in writing about the arts, lifestyle and travel. She is the Owner of 4dancers, a blog for those who love dance, and Editor for Freelance-Zone, an award-winning site for freelance writers. Catherine also reviews music for Celtic MP3s Music Magazine.
Review: “The Angel’s Share” by Atlantic Wave
Artist: Atlantic Wave
Album: The Angel’s Share
Year: 2009
Nova Scotian fiddler Jerry Holland’s memory is honored with the entirety of this second album by this dual fiddle quartet. With ties to Ireland, Scotland, Cape Breton and Québéc, The Angel’s Share reflects a year well spent went upon the creation of these fifteen tracks. Original songs and what the band dubs “rediscovered classics” are included. Pianist Troy MacGillivray and accordionist Priscilla Skrade lend their talents for special guest appearances.
Four is more than enough, when it’s these four, as each plays an orchestral range of multiple instruments. Ed Paloucek and Kaitlin Hahn are a savory fiddle duo, as showcased on “Just Duet”. The complimentary styles of the two meld with a hearty chemistry that grounds the foundations for this well-paced, eclectically Celtic CD. “Black Eyed Gypsy” is where lead vocalist Barry Houlehen shines.
A live version of “Rosin the Bow”, recorded at Paddy’s Pub in Milwaukee, became an impromptu tribute with Holland’s sudden passing. Sung by percussionist John Karr, who musters bouzouki and bodhran throughout the song selection. “Rosin” is a poignant 2 moments, 10 seconds. The emotions and energy run high, equal to the range of talent this contemporary Trad four have poured into this inspiring tribute. With so much beauty and heart displayed through the entirety of this work, I have no doubt the angels are listening.
Dionne Charlet is a freelance writer based in Greater New Orleans. She is a contributing writer for Where Y’at Magazine and reviews music for Marc Gunn’s Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. Dionne runs the Cast Aways Open Theatre Troupe and performs with her fellow Cast Aways volunteers at Ren faires, sci-fi cons, charity venues and festivals throughout the Gulf Coast and beyond. Mrs. Charlet also works as an Outreach Coordinator for the Humane Society of Louisiana. You can contact Dionne at SHIATARA@AOL.com.
Review: “Scythian Live Vol. 1″ by Scythian
Artist: Scythian
Album: Scythian Live Vol. 1
Year: 2009
It’s St. Pat’s in “New York” direct to you from the soundstage. As this album was recorded in 15 different cities, your hometown may very well be represented. The audience participation vibe is so overpowering, you may find it next to impossible to remain sedentary while listening to anything Scythian (SITH-ee-yin), but that’s the point. It is, at least, on this time-travelin’ volume. The guys have a throw-down, jump-up-and-wail vibe that comes through proud and clear and makes for a fun spin through key holidays.
Did I mention fun? Next up is blue-collar-worker-on-the-roof original “Cubicles and Tylenol” that’s a little bit Charlie Daniels, if he were performing with some tempt-the-Devil Celtic musicians from the back of a gypsy vardo. Raucous!
You may even want to listen with a friend, as you and the recorded audience are encouraged to put your hands together and “use your neighbor” in the Irish jig-jam “Wisemaid Set”. Then it’s a TRIP to New Orleans with “Hey Mama Ya”. There is a nice lag to the beat that’s perfect for getting your swing-head sway on.
Celts, gypsies, and…pirates?! Oh, Scy! (SITH-ee-yin, that is.) “My Son John” is the stuff of knee-boot shenanigans on the gangplank. The self explanatory “Gypsy Fiddle” jams right into “The Devil Went Down to Georgia”, and eventually back to St. Paddy’s and the rip-roaring “Kesh Jigs” – remember the dance/spin scene from Cameron’s Titanic? You might not know the steps, but through the power of Scyth-gestion, your feet will make you dance.
Worn out yet? Alexander, Josef, Danylo and Mike aren’t! “Hava Nagila” is a Greek kegger throwdown that doesn’t quit and stays with you like good baklava. If you are hosting a multicultural green beer bash and want just the right AmeriCeltic Psychobilly tunes to get everybody moving all the way through the 4th of July, this long-running CD is sure to please!
Dionne Charlet is a freelance writer based in Greater New Orleans. She is a contributing writer for Where Y’at Magazine and reviews music for Marc Gunn’s Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. Dionne runs the Cast Aways Open Theatre Troupe and performs with her fellow Cast Aways volunteers at Ren faires, sci-fi cons, charity venues and festivals throughout the Gulf Coast and beyond. Mrs. Charlet also works as an Outreach Coordinator for the Humane Society of Louisiana. You can contact Dionne at SHIATARA@AOL.com.
Review: “Metamorphosis” by Stonecircle
Artist: Stonecircle
Album: Metamorphosis
Year: 2009
Quality is present in soulful musicality, even when the lyrics aren’t there. Imagine the soundtrack of a woman’s soul pursed in the chords of her hair, winds blowing the silks of her skirts across a field of heather in bloom, and you’ve only begun to discover the secrets to Metamorphosis. When left to the exploration of the treasures of this compact disc, the listener is met with the Traditional “Maid on the Shore” beautifully animated through the vocals of Mary Johnston-Coursey. Her signature lilt resonates as an a capella intro to “Factory Girl”, where there is eventual communion of instruments with such exquisite deliberateness. Guitar accompaniment eventually leads to flute, and later, violin, ever enriching the melody.
George Schoemaker, founder, band lead, 6 and 12 string guitarist, lends his vocals to a fable about the Mexican-American War in “Santy Anna”. “Moped in the Sky” plays as the theme of some great legend, unspoken through the lore of the ages, where violin and guitar lead an ensembled chorus of melodic reflection tempered through uplifting paces. An inspiring flute solo is just one of the many outstanding elements of the ending “Lamentations” which include “Gaeta’s Lament”, a tribute to the Battlestar Galactica series.
Listen for excellence in musicianship, including the fiddle of Bronwen Beecher, Irish flute, bodhran, low and hi whistles of Tiffany Draper, flute and percussion of Nina Cooley. Celtic fusion is truly art in sound on this sixth offering from Stonecircle.
Dionne Charlet is a freelance writer based in Greater New Orleans. She is a contributing writer for Where Y’at Magazine and reviews music for Marc Gunn’s Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. Dionne runs the Cast Aways Open Theatre Troupe and performs with her fellow Cast Aways volunteers at Ren faires, sci-fi cons, charity venues and festivals throughout the Gulf Coast and beyond. Mrs. Charlet also works as an Outreach Coordinator for the Humane Society of Louisiana. You can contact Dionne at SHIATARA@AOL.com.
$1 Irish Drinking Songs Never Sounded So Good
by Marc Gunn
Back in the late 90s, my step-dad gave me a CD by an Italian musician named Angelo Branduardi. It was a fantastic album. It had one of the cutest sounding Italian folk songs I ever heard, called “La Pulce D’acqua”. I loved it so much I decided to translate this upbeat gem… It was about the Black Plague! Or so I thought…
Years later, I realized I mistranslated the song, but not before I came up with the idea to write a bright, upbeat song about death. In a conversation with my Brobdingnagian Bards‘ music partner, Andrew McKee, it developed into a whole CD concept. In 2009, I recorded the CD, Happy Songs of Death.
The album was a huge hit once people realized that many of the great Irish songs out there are also about death. So I guess you could say it’s really a CD of Irish drinking songs with a death theme. In fact, it’s a joyful juxtaposition of the morbid and the comic that celebrates murder ballads, the Black Death and starving to death. It’s a fresh look at all things mortal.
I want you to own the album!
So from now until March 17, 2010, the album is insanely on sale…
It is yours for ONE DOLLAR!
That’s right. I will send you a link to download the entire album when you make a $1 donation. Of course, if you want to make it $5, $10, $20, $100 donation, I won’t complain. If you would like to hear the album or buy a CD, you can head over to CDBaby and pick up your copy today.
Thanks for your interest. This special offer is over. Stay subscribed for more offers in the future. Slainte!
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Marc Gunn is an acoustic Celtic folk musician, called “The Godfather of Celtic music online” for his steadfast support of indie Celtic music, free Celtic music downloads, and his award-winning Irish and Celtic Music Podcast, one of the most-popular music podcasts on iTunes. He has helped 1000s of musicians save and make money with their musical groups through The Bards Crier Music Marketing Ezine. Now you can get FREE “how-to” music marketing and promotion advice, plus tips on how to sell more CDs when you subscribe today. Subscribe at www.bardscrier.com!
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