Album:The Legacy of Stephen Grier Artist:Seamus McGuire & John Lee Label:Independent Release Genre:TraditionalThis collection is a remarkable celebration of resurrection and renewal, and of the invigorating influence of musical cross-pollination. Sligo fiddler Séamus McGuire and Leitrim flute player John Lee have dusted off and breathed fresh life into a wealth of tunes collected by Stephen Grier in the late 19th century in north Longford/south Leitrim. Far from fixing them further in aspic, they infuse each tune with the most delicate arrangements and, fittingly, invite harpist Floriane Blancke, fiddler Manus McGuire and mandocellist/pianist/guitarist Garry Ó Briain to colour and shade. The pair’s meticulous research has revealed that their opening tune, Planxty No 12, is a Carolan composition – a rare find, particularly when we thought we knew everything there was to know of Carolan’s music. This distillation of tunes written for big houses and intimate kitchens is a bounteous gift that keeps on giving.

Source: The Irish Times May 11, 2018 03:56 UTC