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PHIL HARDY - Revisited

PHIL HARDY - Revisited
Hobgoblin HOBCD1008

Hardy is well known for his work with Chieftain and Kerry whistles; this is something of a farewell to all that as he intends to focus more on working with vocalists in the future.  Some of the tracks have been on earlier CDs but that’s no bad thing as he looked for memorable tunes for this one.  (One thing I liked was his tribute to Susato whistles. They’re not just ‘great whistles for the price’, but great whistles for an amazingly low price.)
 
For devotees of the low whistle – and those who’ve struggled with it – this CD is a good illustration that it has found its place in traditional and related music. It includes a good selection, largely of Hardy’s own tunes, ranging from straight-down-the-middle Irish traditional to semi-Kwela via Arabic influences. Maybe this really is ‘world music’?  I’ve struggled to understand that phrase for years; maybe this is an example.  Hardy covers himself on various Chieftain, Kerry and Susato whistles, making a really pleasant mix.
 
I particularly liked the Morning Dew Set, but then who could quibble with The Morning Dew for a starter of a set of reels?  The Mouseskin Shoe and Dancing in Allihies follow it very neatly, making a change from The Woman of the House and Rakish Paddy.  Track 5, Cun Ana, is a serene tribute to a small harbour near his Kerry home and, listening to this, I can understand his feelings; we all need places like that in our lives.
 
After just a couple of hearings, I haven’t decided on any outstanding track.  I don’t think that’s necessary, every one is good in its own way.  There’s definitely something here for everyone, and I don’t mean that in a slighting way.  I liked every track; some people will plump for one above another. Maybe the best thing is to think of Revisited as a whole and leave it at that.  I don’t mean treat it as a continuous work, just let it wash over you.  You’ll feel refreshed after it.

Mick Furey
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This album was reviewed in Issue 82 of The Living Tradition magazine.