by Catherine L. Tully

Artist: Mabon
Album: "OK Pewter"
Year produced: 2007

Recorded in Wales--the place Mabon calls home--this energetic folk album gives more than a nod to its Celtic roots and can be happily added to any fan of the style's collection and fit right in. Helmed by accordionist Jamie Smith, the band has evolved to a seven-piece group. Their full sound can be compared to the pleasure one gets when listening to "big band" music--but Celtic style, and more modern.

The instruments are used well, and you'll hear a wide variety of them in addition to the accordion including the mandolin, flute, fiddle, acoustic guitar, bass and bodhran, among many others. The music tumbles and grooves, sometimes spinning wildly with its own energy, but it always settles back into a rhythm that feels good and right for the song. The mood of much of the music is that of barely contained enthusiasm, which spills over and affects the listener--in a good way! Make sure to give track 7, "A Hungarian in Brittany" a listen--the pacing is irresistible and although the song is over 10 minutes long, it holds one's attention effortlessly.

This is a very creative CD, blending cutting-edge style with tradition without being obvious or typical about it. The musicians are all skilled players that have blended their talents in a way that has moved the genre forward. It will be interesting to see this group grow and evolve--they are already at the top of their game--what's next?

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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 other magazines, and reviews music for Marc Gunn's Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. You can reach her through her website at www.catherineltully.com.

Labels: cd_review_2007

Posted by Marc Gunn, Sunday, November 25, 2007.
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