by Catherine L. Tully

Artist: NeidFyre
Album: "Waddles from the Sea"
Year produced: 2006

If you love the sounds that can be called forth from the fiddle, then this CD is a good choice. Mel Ginsberg-Stevens is NeidFyre, and the name is taken from the Old English--a word for ceremonial fire that is generated by the friction produced from two pieces of wood. She states, "I read that and the first image I saw was a bow furiously running across the strings of a violin in a jig or reel..."

Mel is no novice, having played the violin since she was 4 years old--and you can tell--she makes it dance. This CD is a collection of not only traditional Celtic, but also Russian folk music, making for a rich tapestry of sound throughout. The Russian songs actually fit nicely with the Celtic, and although it is perhaps an unconventional choice, it is interesting to note the similarities and differences as one listens to the songs.

Some tracks use vocals, but many are instrumental here as well, allowing for full concentration on the music. Her voice is interesting, full and almost commanding, very different than the stereotypical Celtic female singer, but in a good way. She isn't shy about serving up a nice helping of music either; the album runs 17 full tracks long. There is a nice mixture of music; some soft, some energetic and some, well, just good ol' fun!

Mel chooses to end on a fun note with "What Do You Do With A Drunken Duc," guaranteed to make you grin with the visuals you'll get as she delivers the lyrics. This is really an enjoyable grouping of tunes, especially for fans of the fiddle.

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Catherine L. Tully is a freelance writer and photographer who specializes in the arts. She has written for American Style and Classical Singer, among others and reviews music for Marc Gunn's Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. You can reach her through her photography website at www.moonbeamdigital.com.

Labels: cd_review_2007

Posted by Marc Gunn, Saturday, January 20, 2007.
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