Customer Reviews

Imagined Village Ep

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As of this writing, the Imagined Village album is only available as an import from England. Don't let that stop you from ordering a copy NOW. You'll be so glad you did.

To get a grasp of the ideas and concepts behind the album, visit www.imaginedvillage.com. In essence, this is a collection of traditional English folk tunes reinterpreted by modern British voices, including not only folk monoliths such as The Copper Family, but also such diverse UK talent as Billy Bragg, Sheila Chandra and "dub poet" Benjamin Zephaniah.

But make no mistake... this isn't a dodgy compilation or a cheesy "world fusion" experiment. Despite the wide range of voices and styles on display and the modern approach to the arrangements, these awesome songs retain all of the grit and authenticity of traditional folk tunes. The project was overseen by producer and multi-instrumentalist Simon Emmerson, formerly of the Afro Celt Sound System. Fans of the Afro Celts will rejoice that Simon has added his magic touch to this project, but critics of the Afro Celts should stand up and take notice as well. This project bridges the gap between "traditional" and "modern" perhaps more gracefully and masterfully than any of the ACSS albums. It's excellent from start to finish.

Standout tracks for me include the touching opening tune featuring narration by John Copper, the haunting "Welcome Sailor" with vocals by Sheila Chandra (this is reminiscent at times of something from a Loreena McKennitt album), and the incredible closing four-track suite including Simon Emmerson's instrumental original "Pilsden Pen" (a gorgeous duet between acoustic guitar and accordion), a cool update to the traditional "Hard Times of Old England" (complete with vocals and new lyrics by Billy Bragg), and the closing "English Ceilidh Medley" that combines that massive talents of two neo-trad bands, the Gloworms and Tiger Moth.

If you're fortunate enough to be in the UK in November 07, try to catch the Imagined Village on tour. If not, buy this album NOW and hope that it becomes available domestically so that you can afford copies for all of your friends.

Precisely what would happen if traditional English tunes were remixed with a world music sentiment? The Imagined Village set out to find out. You've got folk greats such as Martin and Eliza Carthy, The Young Coppers. Add some rock and world sentiment and you've got a new take on old tunes that is not to be missed. Well worth the investment.

My favorites:

Tam Lyn Retold -- with a reggae flavor, includes the old story and a message for peace

The Welcome Sailor -- lovely ethereal and airy sound gives the sound of the sea

Hard times in Old England -- adds some new verses to bring us up to date

Rebecca Kyle, July 2009

If you like Celtic music, then this is a must-have. ALL the artists on this CD are extraordinarily talented and the music selection is great!

This music is lovely. Perfect for a relaxing morning with a cup of coffee and the newspaper. Enjoy!