Search - Mollys :: Moon Over the Interstate

Yet another splendid fusion of Bluegrass/Celtic/Country/Folk

John Kwok | New York, NY USA | 11/07/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Without question, "Moon over the Interstate" has to rank as one of the most important albums made by The Mollys during their nearly decade-and-a-half-long run as the best Bluegrass/Celtic/Country/Folk/Mexican/Rock and Roll band from my favorite city in the Southwest, Tucson, AZ. This fine album earned considerable praise from The Washington Post, which regarded it as among the ten best of 1997. Indeed, it still remains a favorite album played by folk and country music radio stations around the country. My own personal favorites from this album are two fine ballads written by band co-founder Nancy McCallion, "Rosie" and "Cash for Gold", but the rest sounds quite great too with splendid accordian playing from Kevin Schramm and fine performances on bass and guitar from Dan Sorenson, Catherine Zavala and of course, Nancy McCallion. On drums Gary Mackender did a great job pounding out Celtic, Country and Mexican beats on his kit. Without question, the chemistry and synergy I heard from The Mollys was absolutely superb, easily eclipsing anything I have heard here in New York City's relatively nascent bluegrass and country music scene (Indeed, The Mollys performed in New York City several times before there was an emergent, somewhat vibrant, bluegrass/country music community here in the Big Apple.).



During the approximately 14 years of their existence, The Mollys earned critical acclaim from the Washington Post and appeared frequently at major folk and country festivals throughout the United States. They made a successful tour of Italy back in 2000, and they also had successful tours of Australia, New Zealand, Great Britain, Ireland and Canada. Here in New York City they were invited to perform twice at Lincoln Center's Live-Out-Of-Doors Festival held annually in August, and made several visits too to the Rodeo Bar in Manhattan, which is regarded by some as the premier venue for country music in New York City. Those fortunate to be visiting Tucson on New Year's Eve this year will have the opportunity to hear the latest The Mollys' reunion concert at The Boondocks Lounge featuring its original lineup. Hopefully this may yield someday a more permanent reunion and future visits elsewhere around the country, including New York City."

The best Irish Mexican Polka band in the world

Timothy O'Brien | Chicago | 10/24/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I hardly know where to start. . . . I ran across this band at the Abbey Pub in Chicago a couple of years ago, and have been a big fan since. Anyone interested in Irish-New Mexican Polka music will enjoy this record, and that's just for starters. Nancy McCallion has become one of my favorite writers--not just songwriters, writers period. Check out Sierra Madre, Aqui Estaba Mi Casita, all of 'em. Wonderful musical storytelling sensibility. I've yet to hear Only a Story, but no reason to suspect it's not great. As a live act they are not to be missed. (Although sadly, the marvelous Catherine Zavala has left the band. Sniff.) Anyway, buy all their albums and see them live. You are unlikely to be disappointed."

More energizing than a pot of coffee!

ANNETTE S. | West Deptford NJ | 02/23/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Wow, this band brings music to a new level. The best (& maybe the only) Irish-Mexican band around. The song writing of Nancy McCallion provides defined images and evokes an array of emotions. You not only hear this music, you feel it and are happy you did. The masterful talent of Kevin Schramm on accordion makes this instrument sound and act like nothing you ever heard before!! This music makes you want to celebrate. Hats (I guess sombreros) off to a super band with yet another fantastic album."