Latest releases reviewed

KEVIN BURKE & CAL SCOTT
Across the Black River
Loftus Music
****

If music is a release from the tyranny of conscious thought, as Kevin Burke asserts, then Across the Black River is the ultimate conduit to a zen state of being. Burke's past triumphs with The Bothy Band, Patrick Street and The Celtic Fiddle Festival weigh lightly on his shoulders, and this latest venture, where his pinprick precision Sligo fiddle style is embroidered by guitarist Cal Scott, is a masterclass in finesse. The wealth of originals reflect a pair of musicians who've imbibed swathes of tunes deep into their marrow, their leisurely gestation resulting in a gorgeous, swinging collection, reeking of live performance. Mike McGoldrick and Johnny B Connolly lend suitably refined flutes and accordion. Spine-tingling effervescence. www.kevinburke.com

Download tracks: Evening Prayer Blues. Minnie Foster

ARDELLIS CÉILÍ BAND
Golden Anniversary
Chart
***

Céilí dancing may not match the curtain-raising antics of Riverdance, but a glimpse at the throngs who flock to dances across the country hints at the rude state of health of this seemingly marginalised dance form. This Golden Anniversary collection may be a labour of love for Brian Lawler, founder, accordionist and bass player with the Ardellis Céilí Band, but the subtlety he applies to the tune mix, and Lawler's appreciation of the importance of a bass line, render this a collection that's eminently listenable both on and outside of a springloaded dance floor. Lawler's own slow air, Sadness and Joy, whispers of a musician whose ears are as finely tuned as his feet: a not altogether common faculty to be found among some céilí stalwarts. www.ardellisceiliband.net

Download tracks: Macs Rambles