Dance of the Celts (CD) by Various Artists

0083616393223. New condition. CD. Dedicated to Celtic dance and the lively music that accompanies it, this collection may give even the most rhythmically challenged the momentarily illusion that they too can have a go on the old wood floor. The album begins with a nod to Lochshore, one of Scotland's finest record labels; Anna Murray's reel set on the less piercing small pipes, and Tabache's Irish reels featuring the impressive fiddle playing of Aidan O'Rourke, are indicative of the superb quality of artists recording for Lochshore. Green Linnet's vast Celtic catalog is well represented here (six tracks), and the most enjoyable cuts are possibly the least predictable. From the pre-Patrick Street group Buttons and Bows, accordionist Jackie Daly and the fiddling McGuire brothers perform the poignant slow waltz, "Inisheer." John McGann's impeccable skill on mandolin and six-string guitar shine on his original jig medley, and Deanta's reel "The Flight of the Termite" provides an unusual soundscape as didgeridoo and harp busily engage on parallel levels without intruding upon or clashing with one another. Pat Kilbride's cittern and six-string reels and Mary Bergin's tin whistle hornpipes further illustrate the possibilities and diversity of Celtic dance. ~ Dave Sleger, Rovi