Search - The John Renbourn Group :: Live in America

Renbourn Group Shines In Live Setting

Steve Vrana | Aurora, NE | 12/02/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"It had been eight years since the breakup of the original Pentangle (which featured the equally gifted British folk artist Bert Jansch)) when John Renbourn released this album featuring original Pentangle vocalist Jacqui McShee. This was the John Renbourn Group's second album with this lineup (the other being the lovely A Maid In Bedlam) and it contains many of the elements of the Pentangle sound. The music is firmly rooted in the English folk tradition, yet it also incorporates elements of jazz, blues and classical music.Each member of the group is an accomplished musician. "The Month of May Is Past/Night Orgies" features a dulcimer solo (provided by John Molineaux) enlisting the use of a phase shifter. McShee adds her clear-as-a-bell vocals to "The Cruel Mother" and the drinking song "Ye Mariners All." The 11-minute instrumental "Sidi Brahim" showcases the group's jazzier side with solos from Renbourn (guitar), Molineaux (dulcimer) Tony Roberts (flute) and Keshlav Sathe (tabla, an intrument which adds an Indian influence on many of the tracks). My favorite track, however, is "John Barleycorn Is Dead." And, of course, Renbourn's playing throughout illustrates why he is regarded as one of the best fingerstyle guitarists today. This album was recorded live in April of 1981 at San Francisco's The Great American Music Hall. This live, intimate setting is a perfect forum for the John Renbourn Group. If you are unfamiliar with Renbourn, this would be an excellent introduction. If you're already a fan, this is a necessary addition to your collection. RECOMMENDED"

Wonderful music, a true delight

Colin R. Glassey | Bay Area, CA USA | 01/12/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The opening track "Lindsey" and the next to last track "So Early In The Spring" are two of the best "folk songs" I've ever heard. In between these are some wonderful tunes, and some not so perfect songs (Sidi Brahim being one that I don't much enjoy).Renbourne is a major figure in the world of folk music and he is a very capable guitarist (though not very flashy). His backing band here is very high caliber and the tabla (Indian drum) is a great addition to the group.If you like Altan, Willian Ackerman, and Niel Young (like me), you should give this record a listen. It will be worth your time."

This is a must for FOLKIES ------1-23-99 --T.Meadows -Va.

Colin R. Glassey | 01/24/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This Cd has timeless folk songs that have been rendered by John Renbourn. This music master can create so many different sounds from the guitar, that it sounds like two or three people playing. He is accompanied by Jacqui Mcshee(also ex-Pentangle singerw/ John. Jacqui's voice can take you to euphoric heights while John gets lost in a musical journey. There are also two musicians playing with John and Jacqui that play various types of wind instruments, dulcimers, fiddles, tablas and more!!! This Cd is highly regarded for it's LIVE feel, if not more mind expansion. Todd Meadows 1-23-99"