What’s up? I have two interviews coming up. I have to admit I have concentrated on other projects for the past few days so the update here was slow. But everything will resume next week. I have been listening to Foxlight by Iarla once again. That little chest of magic he always puts in his sound is really something. His music is with me today and this is my little tribute to him for getting me back to my old spirits!
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The Kilkennys
I want to thank my friend Christi for bringing this group to my attention. The Fields of Athenry has been covered by great Irish bands. And no arrangements are the same. This one also shows that a song will always be fresh when handed over to artists who not only respect the essence of the music but also builds it to reach immortal heights. The Kilkennys are a group that I will check out from now on.
New Album out in June by Montreal based band, The Bombadils!
Fans will be delighted to know that The Montreal based Celtic fusion band The Bombadils has finished their most anticipated album. This video is an example of the kind of music you will be hearing if you get this album. I want to commend Sarah Frank’s temperamental playing. Her fiery stage performance is like like a beacon of light, guiding the band’s path. You can support the release of their new album by pre-ordering the CD athttp://www.indiegogo.com/the-bombadils
Aulaga Folk, A Menos Cuarto(Album review)
I received the album inside a parcel. I was surprised to find that it is a box containing 3 discs. One is the album, the second a collection of rarities and the third, a DVD.The motiff is black and white with a clock . Inserted is a liner note of the band’s music including lyrics and pictures. I must say that it is one of the most beautiful CD packaging I put my hands on in years!
The Music.
The album opens with Los Motiladores. The distinctive vocals of Juan Carlos can be heard which reminds me of those ancient Greek songs in mixolydian mode. Ambient sounds like crickets, percussions and an explosion of festive instrumental playing somewhere close to the middle of the track, the all like butterflies in the stomach.
My personal favorites are: the first track of course, and then Quitate with that amazing female vocals and belly dancing rhythm. La Cautiva is very energetic , a combination of Jazz, and Latin melodies. Los Carnavales is very haunting as it reminds you haunted carnivals however the songs picks up tempo in the middle. Extramairlandura is an instrumental piece that moves in different styles. Here the driving sound of fiddle, bodhran and other instruments make themselves proud. La Uva is a showcase of guitar, percussion and vocals. Reeguedoble calls for a beautiful movie with its visual melody and stunning comic singing. The title track A Menus Cuarto closes this album with the sound of winding clock and infectious latin beats which combine all the beautiful elements of Folk, Jazz and World Music.
One can play this CD anytime again and again. I is a kind of music that is at home anywhere in the world. Juan Carlos and the rest of Aulaga Folk made a wonderful album that not only sounds good but looks good as well!
Irish Band Led by Baz McSherry”The Lookin’ Drawer”(album)
I was chatting with my friend Jimmy last night. He was the one who recommended this band led by Baz McSherry from Northern Ireland. We were discussing how important showmanship is in establishing an artist’s musical career. I totally agree with him because the music business is a very competitive world. To quote from him ” The bar is already high and anything less just doesn’t stand out.”
Baz McSherry and the rest of his band have both the talent and showmanship as obvious in this video. Enjoy!
Live Lineup… Baz McSherry-Acoustic Guitar, Lead vocals
Jonny Toman-Acoustic Guitar,5 string Banjo Bouzouki, Lapsteel
Rachel Toman- Backing vocals / Fiddle / Percussion
Alison Crossey- Bodhran / Percussion
Darren Crossey – Upright & Electric Bass / Acoustic gtr / Vocals .
Celtic Music Fan 