MATT MOLLOY – Matt Molloy – CD

Description

CD

Matt Molloys first solo album came after hed had more than ten years experience as a founding member of bothPlanxtyand The Bothy Band. He subsequently took flutist Mick Turbridys place inThe Chieftains, where he has remained ever since while continuing to produce solo albums on a regular basis. This is one of his finest and most focused recordings; the minimal accompaniment from guitaristDonal Lunnykeeps the spotlight on Molloys finely crafted, virtuosic playing style. Apart from his remarkable dexterity and speed, two things set him apart from other Irish players: the very advanced degree to which he has integrated piping technique into his flute style, and his astounding breath control. The latter is particularly noticeable on “The Humours of Ballyloughlin,” on which he produces more ornaments with his lungs than many flute players can execute with their fingers. A sharp, reedy tone in the low registers is another hallmark of Molloys playing; the tonal definition he achieves on the gorgeous “Lament for Staker Wallace” and the midtempo reel “The Templehouse” is a wonder to hear. But no matter how important his playing is from a technical standpoint, you never get the feeling Molloy is showing off. Theres such an unaffected, joyous quality to his virtuosity that its impossible not to be swept along with his playing.
-Rick Anderson, All Music Guide

Tracklist:

1 Boys Of The Lough / Tarbolton (Reels)
2 Maud Millar / Poll An Madra Uisce (Reels)
3 The Lament For Staker Wallace / The Green Gowned Lass (Air/Reel)
4 The Gold Ring (Jig)
5 Patsy Tuohey’s / The Maid Behind The Bar (Reels)
6 Willie Coleman’s / Pull The Knife And Stick It Again (Jigs)
7 Josie McDermott’s / Martin Ainsboro’s (Reels)
8 McDonagh’s / Toss The Feathers (Reels)
9 The New Policeman / The Dunmore Lasses (Reels)
10 The Homours Of Ballyloughlin (Jig)
11 The Templehouse (Reel)
12 Travers (Reels)
13 The Groves (Hornpipe)
14 The Humours Of Drinagh / The Mist On The Mountain (Jigs)
15 The Bucks Of Oranmore (Reels)