This is the debut of young, born in 1976, Galician piper
Seivane. She gives a fresh face to this ancient tradition of northwestern Spain. Having honed her skills since the age of three, her playing is confident with a fine rhythmic sweep. The simple arrangements, though a bit dry at times, keep the spotlight on her performance. Since the nasal moan of Galician pipes is an acquired taste for many, this can be seen as a plus or a minus. Percussionist Beto Niebla and bouzouki player/guitarist/arranger Rodrigo Romani of Milladoiro drive things along nicely with their subtle yet inventive rhythms. Other members of veteran Galician band Milladoiro (Xosé Ferreirrós on oboe, Nando Casal on clarinet, and Laura Quintillán on violin) also guest. There's a good variety of tune types, from traditional jotas (dance tunes) to newly composed waltzes and rumbas. Tunes such as "Xota Dos 28 Puntos" and "Tres Muiñeiras" have the rollicking drive of a village revel, while "Maneo" and the introduction to "Pasacorredoiras de Ponteareas" are quietly reverential and medieval in spirit. A particular highlight is "Fonsagrada," a set of Muiñeiras. It's a spry, drony piece with lots of percussion.
Seivane shows a lot of promise. It will be interesting to watch her develop as an artist. ~ Peggy Latkovich