MAEVE MACKINNON – Once Upon An Olive Branch (MM02)

It must be a difficult decision for any performer…in this case by Maeve MacKinnon…to relinquish control of their latest recording to the skills of a producer but in Angus Lyon I think she has made the right choice. In using the additional services of Innes Watson (guitar and fiddle), Signy Jacobsdottir (percussion), James Lindsay (bass), Fraser Fifield (whistle and saxophone) along with Lyons own skills on Fender Rhodes, piano and accordion he certainly brings a fresh approach to the tried and tested including an intriguing version of “Kind Friends And Companions” with its disconcerting, almost discordant use of jazz tinged backing. Probably this will either conversely be seen as too outrageous by the ‘folk police’ or a bold step into nearly uncharted territory. I must admit that although not every track sits well with me (call me prejudiced if you like but I still can’t get into Gaelic songs…just the rhythms and arrangements) but there are at least many interesting moments to sustain the interest of the listener. From a general consumer point of view (I’ve played it to my partner and she’s not sure about it) it might possibly be viewed as something of a curiosity but only time will tell if this CD is well received with its presumed ‘folk music’ audience. Finally, I’d like to say how refreshing it is to come across an artist who has given some thought in utilising their website to provide information (including translations of some of the lyrics) and notes on the songs etc that would otherwise take up too much space in a small booklet.

PETE FYFE


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