Jimmy Gunn & Providence - Reach Out Your Hands

Thursday 1st February 2001
Jimmy Gunn & Providence - Reach Out Your Hands

STYLE: Celtic
RATING 7 7 7 7 7 7 7
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 858-3329
LABEL: Independent
FORMAT: CD Album
ITEMS: 1

Reviewed by Steve Best

Jimmy Gunn is a colourful character from the very northernmost tip of Scotland, who, after a career with the Royal Navy characterised by drinking, then with a marriage on the rocks and a spell in hospital to dry up, had a major encounter with 'God which has inspired his subsequent musical career and resulted in this, his first release. From the lyrics to many of the titles, and from the cover, it is clear that South America is very much on Gunn's mind - witness the opening cut "The Rio Kids", but elsewhere the music is principally acoustic in nature and distinctly Celtic in style. Jimmy himself possesses the kind of folk voice that goes perfectly with the music, whilst vocalist Donalda Stewart bears more than a passing similarity to Maire Brennan. Self-penned songs alongside Garth Hewitt's "Trailing Clouds Of Glory" and the traditional "Jesus Is Living", which is beautifully sung with accordion accompaniment, make for a pleasingly relaxing sound which is very easy on the ear.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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