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51 of 68 people found the following review helpful:
3.0 out of 5 stars
Been there, done that!, September 26, 2003
The title of Gaelic Storm's latest CD reminds me of an amusing story I read once upon a time. It dealt with a certain unscrupulous tavern keeper who would go around the room after closing and collect the leavings from the tankards. Wine, mead, ale or hard liquor -- it all went down the drain into a special holding tank. The resulting notorious, somewhat noxious brew was known as the "Special Reserve", available to any of the regulars brave enough to ask for it.And that's just what came to mind when I discovered the contents of this new CD, fortunately before I bought it. To say I was disappointed was an understatement. Frankly, I was disgusted that the recording industry once again has had the chutzpah to foist mostly recycled music onto us, for a hefty premium, and then wonder why their precious CD sales are steadily declining. Don't get me wrong: most of the music on this CD is fine, and would warrant four or five stars if only it were new. The only Gaelic Storm track I've ever heard that I actively dislike -- even loathe -- is "Johnny Tarr". I think I've actually listened to it all the way through exactly once. The rest are mostly old favorites such as "Tell Me Ma" and "The Beggarman". And, of course, there are the three genuinely new tracks, "Courtin' In The Kitchen", "The Schooner Lake Set" and "Nancy Whiskey", which I got to hear this evening at the local music store. They're all fine music, with the lively rhythms and harmonies which are the hallmark of this group. As a bonus, they've added a bagpiper to their lineup; his playing is featured in "Schooner Lake", and a little in "Nancy Whiskey", and it's quite good. If Gaelic Storm ever comes out with a truly new CD with the pipes on it, I'll be ecstatic. I had so hoped "Special Reserve" would be it. So, should you buy this CD? That depends. If you're new to Gaelic Storm and want an overview of their more popular tunes, spanning the past five years or so, this is probably a good choice. If you're a Gaelic Storm fanatic, you've already ordered the CD for the three new tracks, and probably aren't even reading this review. But as for me, a more casual fan, I already have their other three CDs, and hundreds of others cramming my shelves. I was tempted, but only for a moment. I have neither the room nor the money to buy just anything, unless I think it has significant value. I'm also not inclined to try downloading this music, legally or otherwise. I'll just take a pass. For equally good or even better bagpipe music than Gaelic Storm has to offer, I'll stick with my two favorite groups: "Deaf Shepherd" and "Battlefield Band". Here's hoping the folks in the recording industry come to their senses -- before it's too late!
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by Gaelic Storm 
