I've followed Altan from the very early days and have watched with fascination as they've matured. That may sound condescending but it's not meant to be. For those of you that get a copy of the CD will know what I mean from the opening track 'Daily Growing'. For a start there's the lead-in of subtle keyboard (who else but Donal Lunny) and who's that joining Mairead on vocals, none other than Paul Brady. So, already a musical nirvana. The following track 'Uncle Rat' with a melody leaning heavily on 'Follow Me Up To Carlow' the band prove beyond a doubt that not every jig, reel or song has to be performed at break-neck speed to achieve the desired effect. The album at times reaches parts that I suppose verge on 'new age' in the construction of the chords and the delicacy of the instrumentation. Particularly effective is the backing on the track 'Pretty Young Girl' with guest vocalist Dolly Parton. It's a surprise element that shocks in a nice way. Needless to say the tune sets are… more »
I've followed Altan from the very early days and have watched with fascination as they've matured. That may sound condescending but it's not meant to be. For those of you that get a copy of the CD will know what I mean from the opening track 'Daily Growing'. For a start there's the lead-in of subtle keyboard (who else but Donal Lunny) and who's that joining Mairead on vocals, none other than Paul Brady. So, already a musical nirvana. The following track 'Uncle Rat' with a melody leaning heavily on 'Follow Me Up To Carlow' the band prove beyond a doubt that not every jig, reel or song has to be performed at break-neck speed to achieve the desired effect. The album at times reaches parts that I suppose verge on 'new age' in the construction of the chords and the delicacy of the instrumentation. Particularly effective is the backing on the track 'Pretty Young Girl' with guest vocalist Dolly Parton. It's a surprise element that shocks in a nice way. Needless to say the tune sets are immaculately executed. OK, so the band don't exactly push the boundaries anymore but while they still turn out quality albums like this, who could ask for more?
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