Irish vocalist Karan Casey and guitar virtuoso John Doyle were founding members of traditional supergroup Solas, a band known for its striking renditions of traditional songs. On EXILE'S RETURN, the two former bandmates re... more »unite to create a stripped-down CD that showcases the power of the songs. Since Solas, each has carved out a niche in the folk world: Doyle's rhythmic guitar chops are in demand as producer and sideman; he's played with Kate Rusby, Linda Thompson, Joan Baez and Liz Carroll.« less
Irish vocalist Karan Casey and guitar virtuoso John Doyle were founding members of traditional supergroup Solas, a band known for its striking renditions of traditional songs. On EXILE'S RETURN, the two former bandmates reunite to create a stripped-down CD that showcases the power of the songs. Since Solas, each has carved out a niche in the folk world: Doyle's rhythmic guitar chops are in demand as producer and sideman; he's played with Kate Rusby, Linda Thompson, Joan Baez and Liz Carroll.
"An excellent paring is Karan Casey and John Doyle.
However - beware - all is not equal!
John takes the vocals on only 3 of the 12 songs (Sally Grier, Madam I'm A Darling, The Shipyard Slips). Karan takes the vocals on 7 and they duet on two. Not to comment negatively on Karan's singing (which is, as always, first rate) but for those John Doyle fans out there, you will probably feel short-changed here.
All told, the 12-song selection is excellent and John's guitar playing remains the best there is.
With the one proviso, as mentioned, this is a recommended album.
"
Wow!
Judson R. Aston | Tennessee | 02/08/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Phenomenal! Really great duo. I remember when they performed with the band Solas so this is a really exciting and long awaited CD. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED."
The best of 2010 already!
C. Funk | OH USA | 04/18/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)
"While I will agree, that there could have been more vocal representation of the great John Doyle in Exiles Return, I still think that this may be the best traditional Irish album to be released this year! If John is not taking the vocal lead on quite as many tracks, he certainly is letting his elegant guitar work speak for him. Karan Casey is wonderful as always, and the whole album is a true delight!
If you are looking to buy an album of traditional material, sung and played by the best in the business....do not hesitate! Buy this!
"
Sublime Celtic ballads and duets
Joe Sixpack -- Slipcue.com | ...in Middle America | 04/07/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Karan Casey & John Doyle
"Exiles Return"
(Compass, 2010)
--------------------------------------
An outstanding collaboration between singer-guitarist John Doyle and vocalist Karan Casey, two of the founding members of the Celtic-trad supergroup Solas, who reunite here for a gloriously rich, stripped-down acoustic set. Casey takes the lead on most of the songs, with Doyle singing lead on three tracks (while harmonizing on several others, and providing typically strong, sympathetic accompaniment throughout...) The repertoire is a fab collection of traditional and traditionally-oriented songs, delivered with the soulfulness and depth of understanding we've come to expect from both these artists. Old-timey scholoar Dirk Powell and flautist Michael McGoldrick add subtle support on a tune or two. Beautiful stuff: you can't go wrong with any of these artists. (DJ Joe Sixpack, Slipcue Guide To World Music)"