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review by Bill Binkelman Hammered dulcimer player Maggie Sansone can always be counted on to deliver superb musicianship on her recordings. On her latest CD, Mystic Dance, she does not disappoint. Besides her usual Irish/Celtic acoustic music, she introduces Persian and world music elements on certain tracks, courtesy of her talents on the instrument known as the santur (a Persian predecessor to the dulcimer but possessed of a different sound) as well as assorted percussion instruments as well. The result is wholly satisfying, whether the music is spirited or gentle. Also as is usually the case, her recording is a mixture of traditional interpretations and original compositions, showing she is not just an inspired performer but a talented composer as well. On the CD, she is joined by a host of other performers, e.g. Sue Richards (Celtic harp), Bobby Read (assorted wind instruments, keyboards, and percussion), Sarah Read (fiddle and cello), Robin Bullock (cittern, mandolin, guitar), Karen Ashbrook (Irish flute and whistle), Paul Oorts (accordion and guitar) and Ian Lawther (Northumbrian pipes). Some of these names are familiar to followers of the label which bears Sansone's first name, of course. Others are less so, but all of the above-named comport themselves admirably, contributing on various tracks. As with past recordings, most "songs" are actually two or three pieces that are united into a "whole." So, the opening "Medieval Set" is comprised of the lilting but somber "Maienzit ane nit (Maytime)" and the more rhythmic and cheery "Douce Dame Jolie." Some tracks sit "alone" such as the exquisitely beautiful "Give Me Your Hand," a romantic blend of hammered dulcimer, harp, flute, accordion, clarinet and guitar. The title track (an original composition by Sansone) is the first occasion where you'll hear the Persian santur, and it lends a decidedly exotic Middle Eastern air to the song, as do the hand drums that are used. Likewise Bobby Read's wind instruments also impart a definite sound of world music to the cut as well. Heady yet enjoyable stuff, the song is sensual and filled with a vivid sense of desert marketplaces and spice caravans. Yet, it's the traditional Irish music that enchants my soul the most on this album, such as the two part "Northumberland Set" ("Bonny at Morn" and "Goddesses") or the uptempo "Celtic Reels" collection featuring three toe-tapping tunes ( "South Uist Reel," "Hunter's Purse," and "Otter's Holt"), showcasing the accompanists throughout the three selections. The album ends with the lovely five-part thirteen-minute "Celtic Wedding Set" which moves from the gently swaying soprano sax and dulcimer on "March of the King of Laoise" to the rollicking dulcimer and guitar-led "Bridal Jig" and ending with the stately "The Waterfall Waltz." I have been reviewing albums on the Maggie's Music label since the first days of Wind and Wire, the magazine. I can state that I have never been less than delighted at a recording from them. Mystic Dance continues their tradition of outstanding acoustic instrumental music recordings, this time featuring the introduction of exotic non-Irish elements for some extra "spice." It's a given that Maggie Sansone is regarded as one of the preeminent artists on her instrument in the world today. She also is a superb interpreter of traditional Irish music and an outstanding leader of her ensemble. For fans of this genre, Mystic Dance will be a valued and treasured addition to their collections. The album comes highly recommended. |
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