This was a very interesting album. Ambient Celtic music that is reminiscent of Enigma at times, yet completely its own style. A sprinkle of Gregorian Chant here, a lively Celtic melody there, all with a “dreamlike” haze over it so that it feels a little magical. This is perfect music to space out to, meditate to, or kick back and have on in the background. It can easily serve as a focal point or accompaniment, depending on your mood.


You’ll hear some flavors that are far from Celtic, as there are Arabic and Nordic influences present here; but this isn’t a mish-mosh of styles thrown carelessly about. McGaha instead manages to keep a current running throughout the CD that pulls it all together—despite the unusual stylings and mixture of sounds. There was flow.

The different tracks make it hard to pick out favorites, since comparing one to another is difficult. I loved the sleepy, sexy vibe of “Dervish”, but there are many tracks to explore here. I’d guess that it depends on your mood which one you would gravitate toward at any particular time. The CD wasn’t too “New Age” for me, and though it is somewhat experimental in scope, it doesn’t veer so far off the path that you find yourself in unfamiliar territory. On the contrary—it’s more like you are in a familiar place; but in a dream.

I’d have to say I really enjoyed this CD.
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In recent years, the line between Celtic music and New Age music has been blurring more and more rapidly. Oft-times it is a case of a New Age artist being under the impression that a few notes of fiddle music equals Celtic music. After years of disappointing albums, by ever more disappointing artists, things have finally changed. Exodus, by John McGaha crosses the lines between multiple genres so effortlessly that the listener doesn’t care about classifications and can just enjoy the music. This album isn’t Celtic, nor is it New Age or ElectroCelt. Instead it simply transcends being pigeonholed into a simple niche.

 

The album has a strong beginning with Ritual of the Dawn, an ethereal and haunting song that brings to mind ancient celtic celebrations in hidden glades. The track is a perfect introduction to the CD and sets a solid tone and pace. The easiest comparison made here is to early Enigma albums such as MCMXC a.D. Soothing and yet inspiring, this strong track is one of many.

 

Each of the tracks on the CD unfolds with its own surprises. While Gravel Walk has a strongly traditional Celtic  sound, Ancient Song manages to conveys a Bauhaus styled tone that could almost be called Celtic Goth. With each and every track standing out with such unique stylings, one would think that the final product would be jarring or discordant….but this is not the case. With a mixture of varied musical styles, themes and sounds this CD is as easy to sit and listen to as it is to dance, groove, or even meditate to. It is rich and complex without being pretentious or over done. John McGaha manages to express a host of musical inspirations by combining them into something that is so far beyond the sum of its parts as to be impossible to define.

 

As an artist, John McGaha is no stranger to Celtic music. As a founding member of Boru’s Ghost, he has proven, time and again, his mastery of instruments wide and sundry. What he brings to this project is a sincere love of his craft, and an understanding of music that is seldom paralleled. Don’t worry about trying to classify this CD. Don’t worry about labeling the styles. Simply embrace this for what it is, a phenomenal CD without a single “throwaway” track.

 

The CD is available for purchase from CD Baby with the CD costing $14 and a digital version selling for $12. No matter what variations of Celtic music you enjoy, you’ll enjoy this album.
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I love blends of Celtic and Mediterranean music with a little bit of an African beat!  It is very reminesant of such groups as Afro-Celt, Enigma and others.  What a great album this is!  I was not surprised to see who the artist is and was so totally thrilled that he has shared his love of music with everyone!  I just hope that he becomes so very well known around the world as he deserves!  Way to go, John!!  We, of the Celtic community here in Oklahoma City, will be waiting for your next album!!
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