THE SHOE STRING BAND
Private Label
The remote West Cork village of Ballydehob has, since its days as a “hippy” centre in the 1960s, had the highest number of “blow-ins” in Ireland, and much of the music there reflects this. The musicians on this excellent CD are long term residents of the Mizen peninsula, and their music is mainly old-time American rather than Irish, but delivered with a sympathy born of years of playing together. It’s been put together to raise funds for the local Clonakilty animal welfare group, and there is no pretence here, just straight, simple stuff, well played, and much more enjoyable and genuine than many an Irish music “seisun”!
Some of the highlights are Arthur Barham’s lovely version of Doc Watson’s classic Handsome Molly with tasty accompaniment from Jane and Jeff, and also another American classic – Farewell Polly, with a tune familiar to Scots listeners as Farewell To Tarwathie – again sung by Arthur, a lad from Suffolk - this is a real ethnic mix, and no harm! There are also some excellent tune sets, notably another ethnic twist in the lovely French Waltz and the lyrical Hewletts on track two.
The band have played to local acclaim at the Schull Sunday market for some years, where sleeve designer Tory Joyce sells her handmade woollens, and it’s hoped that this CD will sell there and to the wider public. You’ll enjoy this CD, and if you were in any doubt about its aims, the last track Quit Kickin’ My Dog Around should make things clear – it’s complete with dog growls! Available from www.theshoestringband.com or 00353 (0)86 883 7009
Irish Charity Ref: CHY 13767
Jim Bainbridge
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this CD online from The Listening Post The Listening Post is the CD mailorder service of The Living Tradition magazine. This album was reviewed in Issue 88 of The Living Tradition magazine. |