MARLA FIBISH & JIMMY CROWLEY – The Morning Star (MFM001)

Towards the end of the 1990’s the Celtic mandolin family seemed to explode on the ‘folk’ scene and one of the finest exponents in this regard was Gerald Trimble whose use of mandolin and bouzouki was to prove influential to a certain twin brother double act. Therefore it was with great pleasure that I came across this recording by Jimmy Crowley (who should really be found featured in an article of “…whatever happened to him?”) and Marla Fibish. These musicians are fine exponents of double strung instruments and display a relaxed and non-rushed approach that many of today’s whiz kids could well take note of. Technically speaking there are plenty of triplets and generous use of glissando particularly on the title track and the overall easy going pace would prove an ideal resource for many ‘session’ tunes. For those pondering whether the use of too many double strung instruments including dordan (bass mandolin), mandocello and mandola [and not a guitar in sight] is a case of overload, you can rest assured in the capable hands of Jimmy and Marla this is a refreshing and at times exquisite recording and is a credit to both performers.

PETE FYFE

Artist website: www.marlafibish.com


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