SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: CATHRYN CRAIG AND BRIAN WILLOUGHBY – THE COOLEY & MOURNE

Cathryn Craig And Brian Willoughby
The Cooley & Mourne
Cabritunes Records

Cathryn Craig and Brian Willoughby have been making music for many years, and a new album coming from them is always a reason to rejoice and celebrate. The Cooley & Mourne is the duo’s sixth album, and it could be their best yet. I have to say, it is so nice to have them back with a new album, and it has been worth the wait.

Whereas In America looked at the experience of The Irish and others going to America, this album is situated squarely in Northern Ireland. From the title, The Cooley& Mourne, to the opening track, “County Down” the album pays tribute to Northern Ireland, where the two live. They also utilized musicians from Northern Ireland on the album. The Cooley & Mourne  feature Northern Irish musicians, Dermot McQuaid (bass, banjo, whistle and harmonica), Paul French (piano), Fergal Hughes (drums) and Colum Sands (double bass). Willoughby contributes his beautiful electric and acoustic guitar musicianship, EBow, and ukulele. Craig provides heartwarming vocals as well her own distinct style of acoustic guitar.

Craig and Willoughby have been around a long time, and folk music has always featured in their career. Sure they have moved in to country or rock, but folk seems to be where they feel most comfortable and this album is a perfect example. Craig’s vocals are perfect for the songs, bringing a sense of nostalgia, while Willoughby continues to stand as one of the best guitarists today. His style is easy, somewhat mellow, but always effective. The instrumental tunes are fitted perfectly on the album and they serve to remind us all of the expert instrumentation going on in this album.

The Cooley & Mourne is a fantastic album. It is beautifully-recorded, sequenced perfectly and Craig and Willoughby have never sounded more confident. The additional players flush out the sound, and are all excellent, but the stars of the show are Craig and Willoughby. They have created a remarkable album.

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