Edel Fox & Ronan O'Flaherty

Introduction by Kevin Crawford
From the opening notes of Martin Wynne's reel, I knew that I was about to experience something very special. The magical sound of concertina, fiddle and bouzouki that I have adored since hearing Noel Hill, Tony Linnane and Alec Finn on their 1979 classic recording is evident throughout. But this is not merely an exercise in nostalgia.

Edel Fox and Ronan O'Flaherty two very young but very gifted musicians from Clare and Galway have gelled together effortlessly on this their first recording. Edel and Ronan have been a musical tour de force since hooking up at the University of Limerick back in 2004 where they were both studying for their BA degree in traditional Irish music. This was also a special time for Edel as she received the prestigious award of TG4 young musician of the year.

Since their stint at U.L., Edel and Ronan have traveled the length and breadth of the country playing and absorbing tunes with Mick McCague from Co Monaghan on bouzouki and guitar. Collectively there is a natural coming together of styles, skills and sensitivities. There is a respect not only for the, musicians whom they learnt from and admire but also for the music itself. From the tune selections they have chosen to the arrangements and use of accompaniment they exude maturity far beyond their years. Throughout the album they are joined by the hugely talented and highly respected Brian McGrath on keyboards, adding his trademark sound to a number of sets.

The interplay between Edel and Ronan shows great daring and portrays a sense of fun and devilment rarely heard on recordings these days. For me the key to making music is having the ability to listen to your fellow players, communicating on a musical level back and forth with tunes and ideas until ultimately it becomes as natural as making conversation with close friends. It is at this stage that real music is made highlighting the best attributes of all musicians concerned yet creating a sound unique to themselves.

Edel, Ronan, Mick and Brian are certainly able to make conversation, but more importantly what they have to say is well worth hearing!