This is the first of
Dan Ar Bras'
L'Héritage des Celtes albums, in which he explores the similarities and differences between the Celtic music of France and the United Kingdom. He accomplishes this by performing traditional songs from both countries and employing folk musicians and singers from France, Scotland, and Ireland. Sharing lead vocals in English are singers Elaine Morgan from
Rose Among Thorns and
Karen Matheson of
Capercaillie fame. Notable instrumentalists include
Donal Lunny on bouzouki, Nollaig Casey on fiddle, Ray Fean on drums, and of course the electric and acoustic guitar playing of
Ar Bras.
Dan Ar Bras does a judicious job of allowing all present to showcase their talents; however, he also excels in large-ensemble arrangements. While much of this album focuses on traditional pieces, the actual performance leans toward the contemporary, not unlike
Capercaillie, especially when
Matheson and Morgan sing. ~ Dave Sleger