This review is written by Kevin McCarthy, 9/06
"Kevin and Maxine’s Celtic & Folk Music CD Reviews"
The celtic diaspora, forced and voluntary, involved many
countries and continents. But is one likely to associate it with
Scandinavia?
Yes, if the Bow Triplets have any say in the matter.
This band of five--Stef Sigfalk, Brendan Wade, Heidi Sigfalk,
Andreas Aeppli and Joe Eisenburger sometimes changes membership, but
what remains steadfast is their solid musicianship. In fact, the Bow
Triplets more than hold their own against ANY celtic group or ensemble.
Based in Switzerland and presently including members hailing from
Ireland, Sweden, Germany and Switzerland (there's a European Union for
you!), it's this quintet's melodious sound that makes them distinct.
Utilizing tempos alternating among leisurely, intermediate and
breakneck, plus styles that bounce from Canadian to Irish to Scottish
and to the U.S., their music moves from dreamy and contemplative to
commanding and rousing. Fiddle play is prominently featured, along with
flute and whistle and uillean pipes.
The jaunty title cut, "Fair Play To You," is the best of the
songs. A philosophical track somewhat resembling the old Nike slogan
"Just Do It," songwriter Stef Sigfalk advises the listener to make peace with
all of his or her decisions--regardless of whether or not you succeed while attempting to
reach for the gold, or choose not to try.
Co-written by Wally
Page and Christy Moore, "The Fisherman" comes in as a close second.
Remarkably, Tom Waits' work, "The Briar And The Rose," appears and is given a slightly (wink, wink) different interpretation with the voice of Heidi Stigfalk.
"Follow The Heron" is especially touching and deserves mention.
It's more difficult to pare down the tunes for a favorites list. The opening cuts, "The Butterfly/Fermoy Lasses," with
uillean pipes, fiddle and percussion, will grab you immediately. The
"Northern Ontario Set" is as pleasing as can be found. "Butterfly
Dances" also deserves inclusion...oh heck, this band couldn't
play a bad tune even with hands tied behind their backs.
Plus, here's a challenge to all listeners of this release: try and stay quiescent while playing "Ragtime Annie."
There are 16 offerings here, seven songs and nine instrumentals, totaling just under 60 minutes of music. Enjoy.
Track List:
Copyright © 1998-2008 Kevin & Maxine’s Celtic & Folk Music CD Reviews. All rights reserved.
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