TRAIL WEST - Rescattermastered
Tyree Records TYREE08CD
This is the second release from the youthful quartet that originally comes from Tiree and South Uist, and who is now part of the blossoming Glasgow Gaels community. The band comprises Alain Campbell, guitar, whistles, vocals; Andrew Findlater, drums, percussion, vocals; Ian Smith, piano accordion, midi bass, vocals; and Seonaidh MacIntyre, bagpipes, tromb, guitar and vocals. There are no less than eight guest musicians, including the likes of Malcolm Jones and Kathleen MacInnes, and six extra backing singers on the Sing-along Gàidhlig Waltzes, so there is scope for a whole range of subtle variations between the tracks.
This is a band that was made to play for dancing, with arrangements which drive along at a great old pace, yet still allow you to appreciate the talent of each musician, which is outstanding, both at an individual level and in the interaction with the rest of the band. The overall result is dynamic and gripping, with really good percussion which enhances rather than overwhelms the overall sound. I would challenge any feet to stay still with this music playing! The songs are varied in both sources and styles, with an especially fine intertwining of the traditional lyrics of South Australia with West Coast riffs.
The band is showing a maturity beyond its years and, with their infectious approach to their music, they must surely be one of the ‘ones to watch’, not just for event organisers, but for the wider public as well. All in all, an excellent release.
www.trail-west.co.uk
Gordon Potter
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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 116 of The Living Tradition magazine. |