JAMIE SMITH’S MABON – Windblown Review

I must admit that I was pretty blown away by Mabon’s last CD and my thoughts haven’t changed much with this excellent follow-up. Jamie Smith’s accordion pyrotechnics are still there joined by band members Oliver Wilson-Dickson, Adam Rhodes, Matt Downer and Iolo Whelan. Opening with the bouzouki driven, triplet heavy “Huzzah!” along with guests Calum Stewart on flute and Tomas Callister on banjo they go straight for the jugular bringing to mind halcyon days of The Bothy Band at their fiery best. The surprising thing about this album is the decision to add vocals to the mix thereby extending their choice of material even further and although perhaps not exactly a ‘real’ marriage as such with almost everyone lending a hand they certainly make a fair stab at it. I get the impression that this was more a case of taking a step from what was essentially a superior ceilidh band to full blown ‘concert’ band and fair play to them for their endeavours. I’m sure they will prove a hit on the festival circuit with an undeniable exuberance that will have their audience dancing in the aisles and finally credit should go to photographer Paul Michael Hughes and the sleeve design team of Adam Rhodes & Grainne Joughin for tying everything together. A very impressive album and I look forward to the next one.

PETE FYFE

Artist Weblink: www.jamiesmithsmabon.com