CELTIC NOTS: Why Not?

Celtic Nots

Why Not?

© 2004 Celtic Nots (881131000066)

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This is a double album representing the two halves of Celtic Nots' work: Disc one is "Celtic", featuring mostly traditional tunes, while disc 2 has the funkier, mostly original work of this three piece acoustic-electric band.

notes

CD review by Mike Corrigan, The Inlander

When we last visited the Celtic Nots four years ago -- wow, has it been that long? - the band had just completed a live recording at the Shop (known alternately as Untied and Live at the Shop), adding to a discography which then included Deep Midwinter (1999), Not Music ('98) and Rope Tricks ('96). They were also considering their next move -- or, indeed, if a move needed to be made. Well, fate took the helm later that year when founding member James Hunter moved to Osaka, Japan, to study music. But as fans probably already know, the Nots are back together again and are [proud to announce] the release of the group's new CD, Why Not?

During the two years of Hunter's physical absence from the Nots lineup, they utilized the wonders of computer technology to work on new songs, sending digital music files back and forth across the Pacific, so that the three of them could continue to trade and flesh out new ideas.

In addition to studying Japanese bamboo flute (known as shakuhachi) with a master teacher in Osaka, Hunter kept his performance skills sharp by involving himself in Japan's Irish music scene (yes, there is such a thing). Meanwhile Alden and Elliott kept on gigging here, occasionally incorporating a fiddler into the band.

Hunter's return to the States and to the Nots roster comes at a time when the group finds itself not only with a larger repertoire, but with a more diverse sound as well, thanks to an expanded arsenal of traditional folk instruments from around the world. Elliott performs on drums, bodhran, cajon, djembe and tenor sax; Alden on cittern, guitar, bass, banjo, mandolin and er-hu; Hunter on flutes, whistles, pipes, diidgeridoo, trumpet, accordion and the Japanese shakuhachi. Why Not? is a two-CD set, showcasing the two sides of the Celtic Nots: their traditional Celtic side and the more creative, improvisational side that has grown out of their mutual love of a variety of forms. While the group has never claimed to be entirely "traditional" when it comes to anything musical, there is certainly a division of style and theme here that is well-served by this double offering.

reviews

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  • Incredible!
    author: Brian

    I think I am going to wear out my CD player playing these two CD's over and over again. This music has my entire family dancing all over the house. We all love the songs. We enjoy the traditional style Celtic tunes, along with the newer folk/world sounds. Excellent combination of styles. We can't wait to see and hear you guys live again as well! Thank you, and keep the outstanding music flowing.

  • Astonishing
    author: Shawn

    The Celtic Nots did a wonderful job with Why Not?. They have once again blown me away. With the various instruments and drum beats, it's amazing, and enjoyable.

  • These guys are way too good.
    author: Arlys

    I have an extensive celtic CD collection, but this CD is the one I have played on a regular basis ever since I got it. If I had a fire in my house I think I would grab it, along with my photos, on the way out the door.

  • Just amazing! Especially the whistle and flute work.
    author: Mark

    There's not much else to say...just a killer cd!!

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