MICHEAL DARBY O'FATHARTA: BOSCA BIDEACH - TRADITIONAL MUSIC ON THE MELODEON FROM CONNEMARA
The simple one-row melodeon, which had fallen out of favor when more complex two-row instruments became available, is apparently on the come back. At least, several players have been recording lovely music with it lately, especially in Connemara which is also the home of Johnny Connolly. O'Fatharta plays at a relaxed pace, charming the listener with the wonderfully warm, reedy sound of his instrument and with the apparent simplicity of his tune settings. Restrained accompaniments by Brian McGrath (piano), Padhraig O'Broinn (bouzouki), and Peter O'Hanlon (guitar), contribute beautifully to the mood, while the participation of Luisne Ni Neachtain (fiddle) and Seamus Mac Conaonaigh (flute) on a couple of tracks brings variety to the sound. A most enjoyable listening experience.
Rating: *** 1/2
Price: $18.99
