Reviewed by Oscar Hyde

This is part of a series offering Celtic arrangements of hymns and modern arrangements of traditional songs. Unfortunately, this particular compilation's more than a bit slipshod. A good number of songs, including opener "Come Thou Fount Of Every Blessing", feature singing that, though technically impressive, sounds far too American and clean for the gorgeous music behind it; other vocals, on tracks performed by the Ric Blair Band, are more traditionally Celtic, but sadly lack power. The album's production isn't top-notch - the guitar on "Just As I Am", the drums on "Nothing But The Blood" and the synth strings on the opener all feel particularly out of place. Interspersed among these earlier songs are much better instrumental arrangements of (originally very non-Celtic) hymns; "Were You There?" is a particular standout. Things pick up more decisively, though, when the album reaches Isle Of Light's rendition of "Crosses Of Annagh", which actually manages to blend modern and ancient instruments pretty well and is a total blast. Isle Of Light play most of the remaining tracks and are by far the most consistently excellent part of this CD, providing the sheer joy and invention essential to any Celtic celebration.

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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