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Stellar first release by giants of the New Celtic Thing

Jan P. Dennis | Monument, CO USA | 11/05/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This band's debut studio disc, if not as absolutely accomplished as their sophomore effort, Rubai, is nonetheless a recording of remarkable subtlety, drive, and musicianship, providing the hearer with nearly unending listening pleasures. It takes musicians of not only consummate skill but also penetrating aesthetic discernment to produce a disc of this weight and consequence.



For shear rhythmic intensity and melodic/harmonic joie de vivre, this band sets an astonishingly high bar. Listen. It's really difficult to conjure such burning cadences and still sound natural, not wildly--let alone unpleasantly--frenetic. Yet these people handle it without missing a beat, so to speak.



In some ways, I like this disc even better than Rubai. There's a certain freshness, an innocence, a naiveté shining through these digital bits that, although not entirely lacking on their second offering, nevertheless defines this disc in a way that it doesn't Rubai. Consequently, it's nearly impossible to choose between the two: Do you want sophistication or intensity? Subtlety or strength (not that each doesn't participate in both; we're just talking emphases here)? Mature reflection or youthful enthusiasm?



If I were you, I'd opt for both. If I HAD to choose one over the other, I think I'd take Rubai. But it'd be an awfully close call."

You will listen with your mouth open...

Jan P. Dennis | 03/25/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is what I call a brilliant CD. Great musicians, awesome music."

Simply excellent.

Jan P. Dennis | 10/23/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Probably one of the most creative young irish/english band.
A nice selection of tunes (compositions, Breton music, Balkan colours...), inventive arrangements and a very lively flute style
by Brian Finnegan. I just loved it."