 Merchants' City (Lazy Mist Records BKDCD107) |
What better way to start the New Year than with the skirl of the pipes? Heady stuff I know but I’m sure this album will help kick out any remaining cobwebs you may have. Starting off with a set of tunes ‘The Pullet/Sandy Duff’ Calasaig prove they aren’t the shy, retiring type and although I wasn’t expecting it I’m glad to hear that lead vocalist Kirsten Easdale has an attacking edge that more than balances the band’s powerhouse backing. In fact, the performances by the rest of the members Celine Donoghue (fiddle), Keith Easdale (pipes), Andy Webster (guitar) and Keith Johnston (cittern) are dynamic and spirited – just the way I like it! As well as established traditional favourites such as ‘The Road To Drumleman’ and ‘The Bonnie Light Horseman’ the members of the band all take a part in contributing new tunes and songs and the diversity in their subject matter makes for interesting reading (and listening). Whether ripping it up with the banjo driven ‘Dinny O’Brien’s/The Shortcut’ or relating the tale of ‘The Lost Gardeners Of Heligon’ Calasaig are a refreshingly lively group whose reputation should see them at the top of the tree. Finally, and this is by no means meant to detract from their efforts, comparisons are inevitable and for those of a certain age I’d hedge a bet with Kentigern which I hope will be seen as a compliment. If you hadn’t guessed it already the album comes highly recommended and you can order copies from www.rowanarts.co.uk |