REVIEW FROM www.livingtradition.co.uk

 

 


 

 

 
JOHN KIRKPATRICK - The Dance of the Demon Daffodils

JOHN KIRKPATRICK - The Dance of the Demon Daffodils
FLEDG’LING FLED3075

Every now and then a cd comes along for review which makes me step back and feel totally inadequate to do the job. What right have I, whose only musical ability is the CD player, to make comments about the work of one of the true great musicians?  Do I go all technical and copy info about the 7 or 8 squeezy things played on “The Dance of the Demon Daffodils” or do I just use the publicity material to offer useful quotes like a splendid collection of his tunes recorded by the master (not a Dr Who villain but John Kirkpatrick himself? I could lift a selection of bits about the tunes provided by John in the excellent booklet provided with this cd-making myself seem very knowledgeable? It would be too easy to do that.

But I do know what I like and dislike and what is good or not. I know a reviewer should try to be objective but what the hell.

Quite simply this is one of the best truly solo instrumental albums you are likely to hear for many a day, or have done for quite a while. If the thought of 70 minutes of instrumental featuring some 32 self composed tunes frightens you, then forget it you needn’t worry. John is a true master who through modern wizardry and pushing the instruments, especially the bass concertina, to the limits, changes the mood frequently. Good use is made of John’s experience in the theatre so there is great variety whilst keeping continuity.

John describes himself as a lolloper-look it up if you don’t know what it means- but there has to be fun in dance music whether you are dancing or just listening.  I once watched John play to a set comprising entirely of young during a packed dance at Sidmouth. The sense of fun he instilled in them was a joy to behold. That sense runs throughout this cd. Favourite tracks? Whichever is playing at the time.....

But don’t take my word for it, buy “The Dance of the Demon Daffodils”. I don’t think you will be disappointed.

Just one final thing... If they are looking for a title for a new Wallace and Grommitt then how about “The Dance of the Demon Daffodils”

Dave Beeby

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This album was reviewed in Issue 84 of The Living Tradition magazine.