CD Review - Chantan "Primary Colours"

Chantan inhabit the musical archipelago that is the demesne of the Fallen Angels in Ireland. A mix of traditional and contemporary folk songs, sung by ladies who have had a lifetime absorbing the tradition and learning how to make a song work. Chantan are Christian Kidd (vocals and guitar), Elspeth Cowrie (vocals and percussion), Corina Hewat (vocals and clarsach). Kleptomaniac folk singers, with an ear for acappella will find much of interest on this recording.

Chantan offer three mature voices, able to adopt and adapt the tradition with blues and jazz overtones, making it both appealing and acceptable to those who prefer their malt without fizzy-water. Each member is totally committed and absorbed in their culture and all have extensive work in progress in other bands and music projects. Of the sixteen tracks on this CD there are personal favourites and some I wouldn't given a wink of a laser to. The Dowie Dens of Yarrow has surely been doneso many times, it has lost any chance of crispness. To contradict that sentiment, the opening track, Gloomy Winter's Noo Away' adds a splendid

harmony to the primary palette, and is certainly a contrast to the dripping cadences and glockenspiel reverence of the version on the Tannahills' Old Woman's Dance. There's much on this CD worth giving an airing at the Goilín or Bradshaws. With alll the words on the liner, you have no excuses, extra points to Culburnie I think.