Harry Bradley: The First of May

Precise, driving rhythms characterise the flute playing of Harry Bradley, this year's TG4 Traditional Musician of the Year. Here is another slew of fine tunes showcasing both Bradley's northern flute style in all its uncompromising glory, and his rich store of tunes. The solo pieces are a treat: running the gamut of jigs, reels and hornpipes, with ample space for the listener to get beneath the skin of each tune, with the pair of reels ( The Hare's Paw and Mama's Pet ) a standout. Bradley's choice of fellow musicians is telling: James Carty on fiddle weaves with the ease of a musician whose sole concern is mining the delights of the tune. Bradley's interest in the music of the 1920s and '30s is palpable in his playing, and is finely complemented by fellow flute player Seán Gavin and Colm Gannon on accordion and melodeon. claddaghrecords.com