PIPELINE – The Red Line

Many years ago I had the pleasure of working with the Hyde Brothers (then based in Scotland) in the short-lived band Malin Head. In a moment of “…I wonder what happened to them…” I was browsing the internet and came across the name Dermot Hyde working with a chap called Tom Hake as the duo Pipeline and based in Germany. And what a fine duo they are! Using their skills as multi-instrumentalists; Hyde (uilleann pipes/whistles/smallpipes) and Hake (bouzouki/guitar/harp/bass) pack quite a wallop with excellent instrumental set-pieces and vocals to match. Dermot’s flair for traditional tunes is still obvious including a majestic “Rodney’s Glory” but he also comes into his own as a song-writer of note particularly on “The Sweatshops Of Chicago” where the Bothy Band/Planxty style backing is juxtaposed by some quite stunning lilting reminiscent of something Christy Moore would have done in the ‘good old days’. Just as comfortable with Airs and ballads this personable twosome really does strike the right chord with those of us of a certain age. On another subject…Hyde’s copious sleeve-notes convey (more than most artists I can think of) a true insider’s knowledge of the (musician’s) world he inhabits and should be required reading for those youngsters trying to establish themselves in the ‘folk’ world…at this point rose tinted glasses should be dispensed with. If, like me you enjoy stories that can also stretch the imagination coupled with real showmanship I suggest you buy the CDs. You won’t be disappointed.

PETE FYFE


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