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1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
This CD is a treasure! A must for lovers of Old World Music, January 12, 2002
Arlene Faith - Spirit of the Celtic ViolinFrom the very first note, this album moves me. The opening track, "East Of River Shannon" is a touching, tranquilizing piece that really does give one the feeling of floating down a river - perhaps a magical river, that exists somewhere between actual places in old Scotland or Ireland, and a gorgeous fantasy dimension. Every song on the CD is excellent, but there are many highlights. "Night Amongst The Elves" is a playful, eminently danceable adventure to a realm that many (including myself) would love to visit often. The incredible "Jacky Tar" is a lively, joyous, upbeat song that compels me to return to the woods and revisit the magic, spiritual power and fulfillment that is there for all of nature's children. The mesmerizing sounds of the violin and other instruments on the amazing "If I Had A Boat" are so beautifully rendered and arranged that they make me swoon with a feeling of inner peace and harmony. Arlene's beautiful, masterful violin playing, accompanied by her fabulous band's old-world sounds and instruments, truly creates a rich tapestry of images and feelings that transport me to an exquisite place that I love to visit frequently. As this is an all instrumental album, it frees my mind totally from the confines and limitations that language inherently creates, and I can just let go and sail away from the modern world with all of its decidedly non-spiritual goings-on. I heartily recommend this disc to anyone who loves Celtic, Irish, Scottish, Welsh and Old World music. It is a nice mix of fast and slow numbers, all of which obviously come straight from the heart of Arlene and her fellow musicians. It is such a powerful set of recordings, and always leaves me feeling renewed and invigorated. The blend of mandolin, flute, violin, guitars, keyboards, whistles and Arlene's inspired, heartfelt, lovely songwriting will, in my opinion, have a profound effect on all who listen to it. James Galusha January 2002
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