New Reviews: July 19, 2001

The Music Of Ed Reavy
Ed Reavy
Rounder

Following his Irish roots, Ed Reavy was a remarkable fiddler from Pennsylvania, USA. The Music Of Ed Reavy captures his skillful playing abilities from the early 1970's. 23 toe-tapping instrumentals comprised of fiddle, guitar, mandolin, accordion, piano, tin whistle and uilleann pipes showcase Ed Reavy's traditional musical style. Mick Moloney, Billy McComiskey, Eugene E. O'Donnell and Liz Carroll are some of the guest musicians included on this recording. Vocals are not present. A 38-page booklet details Ed Reavy's life and music, Irish music in America and information on other musicians heard on this incredible anthology. Fans of traditional instrumental Irish music will thoroughly enjoy The Music Of Ed Reavy.

Traditional Irish Music: The East Coast
Various
Rounder

Traditional Irish Music - The East Coast, was made possible from various field recordings made during the mid 1970's in the larger cities of the Eastern United States. Musicians include, Brian Conway, Mick Moloney, Sean McGlynn, Tim Britton, John Fitzpatrick and Jack Coen. The instrumentals include music from the guitar, accordion, concertina, banjo, mandolin, flute, fiddle, piano and uilleann pipes. Vocals are not present. Overall short, but catchy Irish jigs and folk tunes appropriately describe the musical context of this album. A 26-page booklet is included. Highly recommended for persons interested in traditional Irish music and historical ethnomusicology.

Traditional Irish Music: Chicago
Various
Rounder

Traditional Irish Music - Chicago, features field recordings made during the mid 1970's in the Chicago, Illinois vicinity. Interstingly, Chicago was one of the most vibrant Irish musical centers in America. Musicians include, Liz Carroll, Jim Thornton, Joe Shannon, John McGreevy, James Keane, Sr., Terry Teahan and Maida Sugrue. Traditional Irish jigs are performed on uilleann pipes, concertina, fiddle, piano and flute. Solo vocalists James Keane, Sr. and Maida Sugrue, perform on two separate tracks. Their traditional style of singing is called "sean-nos." A 34-page booklet explains, in great detail, the Irish music scene in Chicago, as well as, musician biographies, translations, historical notes and song information. Highly recommended.


Reviews by Matthew J. Forss.