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Kieran McGee "Ash Wednesday" CD
Drunken Cow
Genres: folk-rock, country-folk, indie pop
Art Collins Management
66 New Street
Pine Bush. NY 12566
July 8 - 15 2002 |
Kieran
McGee makes country-influenced folk rock that appeals quite a bit
to me, and will surely be of interest to fans of the genre. At
times uppity, at times touching, McGee reels through a whole
number of emotions and influences on Ash Wednesday. Nods
are given to all sorts of folk and country musicians, including Woody
Guthrie, Johnny Cash and even some of the Beatles'
work. "Last Forever", for example, is a touching piece
of folk-rock, while "Wind Up In The World" is a more
traditional ditty, succeeding in being both upbeat and sweet. Perhaps the most notable about this album is McGee's
expertise for songwriting. Throughout the duration of these
twelve wonderful songs, he shows his skill for writing folk songs that
are both complex and catchy. Despite his young age, his
songs reveal a musical maturity that is unparalleled by many of the
older composers on the scene. Take "Blessing In
Disguise", for example. Two guitars combine to form a
beautiful, yet detailed instrumental layer. Then, in the
foreground, McGee is singing about the girl he loves. He
also incorporates seamless drumming and bass into the piece, all to
wonderful effect. Throughout the course of the track, it's
obvious that McGee knows what he's doing - and how to do it
well.
This, McGee's second release after 1997's Left For Dead
(which he recorded at age 15!), will appeal to those who want more of
his special brand of irresistible folk-pop. Fans of Bob Dylan, Paula Frazer, and Gram
Parsons will also find this to be quite enjoyable. From
start to finish, McGee had me walking through the halls of his
less-than-perfect world - full of both love and despair. Thank
you, Kieran - your album is an experience I will never forget.
90%
Matt Shimmer |
