Search - Robin Williamson :: Gems of Celtic Story: Two

The old gems rekindled by the Williamson spark

09/01/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"In the past few years Williamson seems to have veered towards true storytelling - before he incorporated a lot of stories and storylines into his music (he always had something interesting to tell), but now it's the story that comes first. Music plays a second fiddle, and just supports the stories. He's done a truly great job on this cd - all stories are well worth your attention. For me, the best way to listen to them is late at night, when all else has gone to sleep and only the moon provides a silvery light to add to the magic. The first story we encounter is "The dialogue of the two sages", also featured on the cd version of "Songs of love and parting". At first, I preferred the older version (as you do) but as this newer version is much more complete it is, in the end, more satisfying. To me, the second story on this cd, "The voyage of Mael Duinn" is easily the best story - great atmosphere and full of the most wonderful images.I haven't been convinced by all of Williamson's recent output, but there can be no blame on his storyteller's work - whether it's a retelling of ancient stories or his own life's memories. I'm eagerly looking forward to new voyages into the Realm of Story !Hans Wigman"