Album Notes

Brian Donnelly and Jack Bartley have performed in pubs and at festivals throughtout the Philadelphia area and in Ireland over the last 20 years.

Brian is responsible for most of the vocals.

He also plays tin whistle, harmonica and, when necessary, can put a mean hammer-lock on a button accordion.

Jack plays 6 and 12 string guitars, banjo, and manages to throttle a few songs on his own.

Susan Bartley adds a touch of decorum by smoothing out the mix via viola.

Vince Brennan, a long-time staple (and paper clip) of the Philly folk scene, adds mandolin and vocals, and increased the size of the band by 20%, if not the quality.

Wendy Fuhr's fiddle (in addition to Wendy herself and her harmonic vocals) enhances the instrumental attack.

She also provides a distinct counter-point to Vince's appearance.

Whenever possible, Cheryl Prashker joins the band to lay down a rhythmic array of percolating percussion.

Known for their renditions of traditional, contemporary, and original Irish folk songs, SYM's repertoire now includes a complementary selection of American folk songs.

The subjects of these songs touch on humor, social commentary, the problems of aging and the workplace, and drinking.

So's Your Mom has appeared numerous times on the Gene Shay radio program and at the Philadelphia Folk Festival, the country's premier folk music event.

So's Your Mom's recent appearances at the 2001 NorthEast Regional Folk Alliance conference, Godfrey Daniels in Bethlehem, and the Bethlehem Musikfest were extremely well-received.

Reviews: From Tune-Up, the newsletter of the Philadelphia Folksong Society
"I have waited for years for for a recording of So's Your Mom..., and here it is, none the worse for the wait.

"Jack Bartley is the guitarist/writer..., he is sensitive and creative and sings his own songs well.

"Brian Donnelly adds pennywhistle and he sings lead on the traditional songs and the covers.

"His performance is the most moving I've heard for years.

"He combines a bass-baritone that Gordon Bok might envy with a story-teller's use of lyrics.

"For pure talent, he is the best we have.

"I recommend this CD to all who know So's Your Mom.

"I would also urge others to hear this recording.

"It is a wonderful introduction to the wealth of talent within our ranks."

Mike Miller, Views & Reviews

From ZDNet and listen.com

"So's Your Mom is not a rude hip-hop group trying to dis your mother, but a quartet from the Philly area who play mischievous Irish folk music.

"Strong, authentic vocals boom as they play strictly traditional tunes."

Robert L.