Goitse
Album: Tall Tales & Misadventures
Label: Self Released
Tracks: 11
Website: http://goitse.ie/

Traditional Irish music has changed dramatically since the 1960s. The body of work that has been built up from Planxty to Kan and everyone inbetween, demonstrates how this Tradition has evolved in a reactively small space of time. With so much still happening, the question of, "How do we keep it fresh", is a very reasonable. I was recently given an album by a band called, Goitse. Anie McGeeney, Colm Phelan, Conal O'Kane, James Harvey and Tadlhg O'Meachair are the musicians that form Goitse and they seem to have their own take on Traditional Music.

The first track on the album is a very strong opener. The first tune, (a traditional one), certainly lets the listener know that this band means business. The second tune in the set is one by the Banjo maestro, Damien O'Kane and serves as some light relief from the first rollicking melody, providing some unusual melodic shapes and intricately executed syncopation. The third and last tune in the set is a reel by Tania Elizabeth. The change in metre and tempo gives the set a fast and furious finale.

The third track is the first song on the album. Carrick-a-Rede by Cathie Ryan is sung by Anie McGeeney who also plays the fiddle in the band. McGeeney has a very sweet voice which is complimented by the sensitive yet firm Piano, Guitar and Bodhran accompaniment of Tadlhg O'Meachair, Conal O'Kane and Colm Phlean. James Harvey interjects the vocals with tasteful and cleanly played lines.

There are elements of Beoga and subtle hints of We Banjo Three, however, the band make the music they play their own. This album is a very strong collection of music and I'm looking forward to the next one.

Matt Tighe