Reviewed by Paul Keeble

With very few exceptions (one being - of course - 'Burning Daylight' made 25 years ago with fellow 'Eh! Geoff Mann Band' members), I have to confess at the outset to not being a fan of instrumental albums. Live is different because you can experience the music being made in the room, but recorded, well. . . That said, don't let me put you off! El McMeen is a very skilful guitar player, and as track one got going I was reminded of Phil Keaggy's 'Wind And The Wheat'. Yes, Mr McMeen is that good. As the title suggests, these are Celtic tunes and the sole instrument is acoustic guitar. Apart from a few such as "Danny Boy", "Skye Boat Song" and "Greensleeves" the melodies were new to me but all are well played and recorded. I found 25 tracks of instrumental guitar a bit wearing, but such is Mr McMeen's extraordinary skill and the fact that there is a well-known market for instrumental Celtic music this compilation could well find a niche and as background music to chill to on a warm summer evening, this could be just the thing for you.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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