Escaping Reality with Esotero

Fraser and Graeme

Traditional Scottish and Jazz. Those are the two styles that define the new album Esotero by Fraser Fifield and Graeme Stephen. It is a work layered in intricate textures. I encourage you to give it more than twenty spins before you say anything what the album.What I am saying here does not even define the whole album because, Esotero has MORE to offer as part of your listening experience. But we can agree that it is an impressive album with loads of surprises.

I like the how space is given emphasis between instruments and tracks. It is almost like stepping into this white room and seeing a few instruments on display. It is easy to get lost in the passion behind the making of tunes like the title track Esotero, The Bank of Time and Immigrant eyes among others.

These two artists go all the way back with an impressive  array of albums to celebrate. I would like to unlock the secrets to the melodic alchemy of Fraser Fifield but it is hard. His approach is always unique and sometimes the way he plays with scales is uncanny. His delivery gives a sense of atmosphere and mystical qualities to each track. And yes, the guitar works of Graeme Stephen completes the alchemy, giving Esotero a timeless and satisfying listening experience for all.

Buy Esotero here: http://www.fraserfifield.com/shop/

Enda Seery & John Byrne on Geantraí

For years now I consider Geantraí  as one of the most important sources of traditional live performance in Irish music. For this week comes a surprise. I was going through my youtube stream when I found this upload of the latest performance featuring Enda Seery & John Byrne. These two made a tight breath-taking performance by making their two acoustic instruments feel like a full set. In most of Enda’s performances, there is that distinctive, delicate way of playing-his love for expression and texture over speed. The style where he shines. John Byrne compliments the tin whistle with his rhythmic guitar strumming  and making sure that their sounds merge seamlessly.

He and John will be playing for Gael Linn ‘Siamsaíocht @6’ concert series next Tuesday, 19th November from 6-8pm in the Central Hotel, Dublin. His latest second studio album ‘Síocháin na Tuaithe:Peace of the Countryside'(2013) is available on http://www.endaseery.com/buy-albums.html

Video info:

Geantraí, TG4-Programme 3, 2013.
Enda Seery (Eb whistle) & John Byrne (guitar).
Reels: Day Trip to Galway (comp. Enda Seery)/The Golden

What Happened to the Website?

Some of you might be asking what happened. Why the sudden change in the design. Well folks, first, thank you for taking notice of the changes that happen here, and for  complimenting my fashion sense (@#$R%G!). I was thinking since summer is here, it is time to appreciate the warm colors of nature. A great Monday to you all. I am several hours ahead because I am in Asia. I want to urge you to take time to read the blog of this harpist by the name of Amy. I used some of her ideas in my Got Harp Blisters article. Apart form the great thoughts she has written, I love the header design.

http://amykortuem.blogspot.com

Got Harp Blisters? Part II

Ray Pool is a world renowned harpist from Tulsa Oklahoma. He has interesting tips in how to deal with harp blisters. Click the thumbnails to enlarge.

Original source: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.440002226552.210336.617686552&type=1

 

http://www.raypool.com

Crapshooters are Making Good Music in Germany

This video reminds me of old photographs. These guys take their late 19th century fashion seriously!

Despite the title, the Crapshooters play a good blend of Traditional Irish, American Bluegrass and German folk. The introduction of bodhran, tin whistle, concertina, banjo, acoustic guitar, bass and various percussion will make you realize that they are very serious with their musical direction. There are slow airs that will move you. The harmony vocals are good. After four songs you will be convinced that these guys are actually shooting great music! Eire is one tune that I consider captivating.

http://www.myspace.com/thecrapshooters

You can fine them in facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Crapshooters/233770759981989