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Live in Seattle

Green Linnet

List price: $16.98
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Martin Rochford's
Green Gowned Lass
Port Na BPucai
Kilnamona Barndance
Ship In Full Sail
Jer The Ragger
The Old Blackthorn...
Carraroe
Out Of The Ocean
Mary McMahon Of Ballinahinch
Miss Lyon's
Dowd's No.9
Come West Along The Road

Average customer rating: 5 stars

It doesn't get any better than this

I own (and love) Hayes' two previous CDs, so I was rather ambivalent about purchasing this one, given that too many "live" albums are just a rehash of previously recorded material punctuated with applause. Fortunately, I sent for the CD anyway, and it's a revelation. Irish music arose in an environment that fostered an intimate connection between performer and listener; while tradition was respected, spontaniety and the imprint of the musician's personality were equally valued. Working within traditional Co. Clare fiddling style, Hayes teases out the nuances of each tune, from thoughtful to lighthearted to downright raucous; Cahill is a perfect ally, providing both support and (at times) contrast in his solo passages. What I find remarkable about the 27-minute set is that it doesn't SEEM that long: it's a drama in a dozen acts, and although the emotions cover a wide range, the tension never flags. (Contrary to my expectations, most of the CD is new material; I recognized only a few tunes from Hayes' earlier recordings.) The performances are so polished that I was surprised at times to hear applause; in general, the audience was so in tune with the performers that they didn't whoop and holler at inappropriate moments. This is Irish fiddling at its finest, and the recording is generally very well done. (My one complaint: whatever possessed them to fade out at the end of the last track? It destroys the concert "feel" and doesn't do justice to the tune.)

Moving playing of the highest order.

It takes quite a CD to get me to go to the effort of writing a review. However, having noticed that most of the well-deserved positive reviews received by this excellent CD come from fans of Hayes and Cahill, I decided to provide an outsider opinion. I am primarily a classical musician (a pianist) and I certainly wouldn't consider myself expert in Celtic fiddling. In fact, I'm not sure quite why I bought this CD in the first place. Sure am glad I did. This is music making at the very highest level. The 27+ minute medley of 11 tunes should be required listening for anyone who has ever tried to play, for example, a Bach Partita. This is truly playing which moves the listener, both physically and emotionally. Very highly recommended!

Bravo!

This CD is, by far, my favorite and I own tons of Celtic music CD's. I've seen Hayes and Cahill many times in person, and this CD captures the thrill and excitement of a live performance. I've been a friend and fan of Dennis Cahill from his days at Shannon's Landing Pub and other Chicago area venues. When Martin Hayes joined him as Midnight Court, I knew there was something special going on, even if they didn't realize it right away. Don't pass up an opportunity to see them in person, but buy the CD - you won't regret it.

At the Tractor Tavern

I just happened to be in Seattle the night of the release party, and I elbowed my way into the Tractor Tavern to hear Martin Hayes, one of my favorite performers. I wasn't diappointed with the concert, and I certainly am delighted with the album. Hayes and Cahill are a legendary duo: their performance is a wonderful blend of creativity and musicianship, and both musicians perform equally for the good of the music, not solely to highlight themselves or each other. And while there is much music to be enjoyed, there is much to be learned from this album too: if you are a musician, you will appreciate the flawless technique and inclusion of tradition and non-traditional elements in chording and ornamentation. It was a great personal joy to be at the Tractor Tavern for the release party, and an even greater joy to relive that night every time I play this album.

One Of The Best Live Albums Ever

Perhaps I am bias since I was at this concert at Seattle's Tractor Tavern but I must say that this CD aptly captures the magic that was in the room that night. In fact, this recording captures the passion and energy of their live performances better than any of Hayes' excellent studio albums. Check out the hair-raising nearly-30 minute suite. Elements of jazz & classical music can be detected in the complex, undefinable interpretations of traditional Irish music. Any music lover should give this a chance. Simply breathtaking!