Malinky
Album: Far Better Days
Label: Self Released
Tracks: 11
Website: http://www.malinky.com

Well then, it's like this.....this is a difficult review to write, nigh on impossible to be honest. Why? Well, there simply aren't enough superlatives in the English language to sum up this work, this collection, this experience, and though I'm sure there's numerous others that may slip easily from the Scottish tongue, well I simply don't have them in my locker.....this is Malinky then, this is magnificent from beginning to end.....and testament to the craft and passion of this fine collection of musicians whose credentials are for all to envy!

'Far Better Days' includes ten traditional songs, and also 'The Wild Geese' a 1915 poem from the hand of Violet Jacob, all given the Malinky treatment and all delivered with such honesty and clarity, an absolute pleasure to behold. Vocal duties are shared between four members Steve Byrne, Mark Dunlop, Fiona Hunter, and Mike Vass, though either one one of the four could happily have carried the entire album; all offering fine deliveries, accurate and assured....songs that have been rediscovered, revitalised, and re-energised.

Malinky, over the years, have earned themselves a fine reputation near and far as probably some of the finest purveyors of Scottish traditional song, and this album is sure to underpin this....publications around the world sing their praises, and it is little wonder, for, from the very first, to the very last note, to the last last hanging word, this is pure, unadulterated, folk treasure!

It would be nigh on impossible to single out any of the inclusions on this album for specific praise, so high is the standard throughout, and in fairness it's probably best to curtail this gushing review, for here is a writer utterly smitten with his muse! So, perhaps the introduction of a scoring system my suffice? So here goes, marks from ten of course.....song choice 11, arrangements 11, musicianship 11, production 11, vocals 11, presentation 11, and finally overall listening experience....yep, you've guessed it 11.

So,those who know the capabilities of Malinky can indeed rest assured that this band continue in their pursuit of excellence.....those new to Malinky, well, I defy you not to embrace this, to fall head over heels!....enough now! Just buy it....this is life changing stuff!

James Cosgrove