Kan
Album: Sleeper
Label: Kan Music
Tracks: 8
Website: http://www.kan-music.co.uk

The first outing from Celtic folk supergroup (sorts) fronted by Flook flautist Brian Finnegan and Lau's fiddle wizard Aidan O'Rourke is a stirring musical tour de force that leans heavily on old fashioned qualities like melody and harmony without sacrificing the sense of urgency that fuels the finest folk music.

Guitarist Ian Stephenson and drummer Jim Goodwin prove generous and sympathetic in creating the space for the two lead players to shine, although playing this well crafted can never be held in the shadows.

What emerges is a collective will to let all four members shine, both separately and in unison. It's a progressive sound that knows its history and weaves an at times spellbinding course through a world of musical inspiration from Central American groove paths to misty Irish traditions and delicate Breton dance figures. And just when you think you have it pinned the group stirs the pot again to reveal deft touches of avant garde or gypsy jazz and even a flash of klezmer.

Nick Churchill
www.thegranvillechambers.co.uk