(Friday 06 July 2007)
"DON'T sing love songs, you'll wake my mother" is the gently ironic refrain from Maeve Mackinnon, the young Celtic singer stepping out here with an accomplished first album.
Mackinnon's artful blend of Scots, Irish and US ballads around an eclectic core of traditional Gaelic songs is backed by musicians who range easily from folk to jazz and even classical moods.
She also finds room for some Gaelic puirt-a-beul - mouth music.
As a Scot with political as well as musical roots, Mackinnon credits Dick Gaughan as an influence, which is clearly heard on her version of Child ballad The Cruel Brother.
And the album's cool, modern feel is emphasised with a refreshing take on hackneyed pub chant The Wild Rover.
MALCOLM BURNS
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