This is the second album Grace Notes album that I've had for review. I approached it nervously because I wasn't too keen on the previous one, something about the choice of songs - curates egg quotes apply, and the occasional faulty intonation. My overall feeling was that it was OK but nothing special and I'd prefer to hear them live.
Well here I am with this one. This time the feelings are reversed; the songs, without exception, are well chosen, the vocal work firm and well centred, harmonies close but not cloying. That latter is a strong point with me, I've heard so many good songs dragged down by over-leary harmonising.
Favourite tracks? I like their rattling good version of Gypsy Davey, the poignant "Lies" (Stan Rogers) and the gorgeous "Quiet Land of Erin". The title track aint bad either.
Overall, this is a mature and pleasing performance from three women who know what they are doing, namely Maggie Boyle, Lynda Hardcastle, and Helen Hockenhull. I still want to hear them live, in fact I look forward to it. But this will keep me happy till then.
Roy Harris
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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 27 of The Living Tradition magazine. |