DAVE SWARBRICK – Raison D’etre (Shirty Records Shirty 1)

We are all, one way or another influenced by our heroes and much like Dave Swarbrick is one of mine, he is quite happy to share his with us. Unlike the heathen that I am ‘Swarb’ knows where each tune in this glorious set of merry melodies comes from gaining knowledge from what I can only assume is a vast collection of manuscripts in Swarbrick Towers. Surrounding himself with an array of musical talent including Simon Mayor, Maartin Allcock, Kevin Dempsey and the much missed sparring partner of many years Beryl Marriott the energy and exuberance in the performance are still there in that ‘cheeky chappie’ style we have all become accustomed too. As well as two self-penned compositions “Andy’s Waltz” and “Sweet Alban” in a sort of travels through time Dave has been influenced by the likes of triple hornpipe pioneer John Ravenscroft (a larger than life character in more ways than one) providing us with “Ravenscroft’s Fancy” and Thomas Augustine Arne’s Thomas And Sally” (he also wrote “Rule Britannia” don’t you know)? This is an album that continues in the tradition of Swarbrick’s earlier ‘solo’ recordings and will prove a ‘must have’ addition to collectors of fiddle music everywhere.

PETE FYFE


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