 Glen Lyon (Footstompin' Records CDFSR1714) |
When do you lay aside the trappings of commercial success to concentrate on your art? That’s the question I pondered on whilst listening to this intriguing CD. For Martyn Bennett it would appear the time is now. I mean, the idea of using his mum Margaret (acknowledged as a fine singer in the traditional style herself) as the main vocalist isn’t the first idea that springs to mind. But here, he does just that and in a cock-eyed way it works at least at one level. Unfortunately, as I don’t understand the Gaelic language this makes uncomfortable listening for me. Not unpleasant, just uncomfortable and possibly the richer for it. At least it makes me more aware of the mood Martyn is trying to convey. The recording has obviously been crafted with a certain ‘feel’ in much the same way a well made documentary on say native Indians or indeed crofters would be utilised. This is an ambitious project, which I’m sure Martyn feels he can express to a wider audience. As the press release states this is a reflective album whether it is a commercial reflection we will have to wait and see. |