Reviewed by Robin Thompson

If there is a category of music known as hard rock, is there also a category called hard Celtic? If there was, I'm certain that this album would fall into that category. Isle Of Light are four US-based musicians, with Mary Kay Wilkinson taking most of the lead vocals. Don't expect a contemporary take on Irish music here, this is the real thing. This collection of nine songs features some traditional Irish tunes with the band's own compositions. It's obviously not until you hear their own songs that you realise that they are a Christian group, which I liked on first hearing because I could appreciate the musicianship inherent in this recording. Coupled with that, it's nicely packaged and well recorded - an absolute credit to them given that this is an independent recording. Of their own songs, "Glory And Honour" and "Bird Of Heaven" are the two that stand out for me. They contrast nicely, the former being an uptempo, "let's all join in" number with the latter being more reflective but equally as catchy. I wouldn't advise buying this unless Irish music is your thing, but if it is, you will not be disappointed.

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