TZIGANE ONE (cat ref Big Paul One)For those who can't get to the pubs on the Island to hear the local musicians this CD will provide ample enjoyment. For those who are lucky to be able to get the pubs then you will know this 'band of gypsies' Donal O'Riain, John Mansell and Paul Armfield all with a musical pedigree which accounts for the high standard of performance on this beautifully packaged CD.
I'm lucky, I live within walking distance of the number one winter venue for live music, The Woodvale in Gurnard and it is here that you can capture this trio in action on a regular basis.
My only criticism of this CD is that their live performances give you the vitality of the performers, the CD can become a little self indulgent, but this is mainly due to the instrumental content. Tzigane have so much talent that you can if you wish drift off into visions of Eastern European migrants dancing waltzes, polkas and jigs around the roller skating rink of Heavens Gate, or the lamenting tragedy of lost homelands and lost lovers.
There is no doubt that Donal (he of Irish band Last Orders) is such a versatile violin player that he can play with the skill and agility of Grappelli. In Tzigani Medley, there are three pieces which range from Hot Club de Paris through to Klesma in New York. John Mansell picking some fine guitar. Big Paul as he is known plays stand up bass with passion and the whole CD is filled with his fine rhythms.
The stand out tracks to me are Hora Tiganeasca and Sirba. Hora starts off with a slow lamenting violin and gradually picks up to a fast pace which gives you a really happy vibrant feeling. Sirba is the last track and reminds me of Katacachurians Sabre Dance, that is until the band put in the only vocals on the CD with a rousing cry of YAKASHA!, then it's a free for all with all the passion of Cossacks swigging vodka and dancing like Cossacks do. It's played at a break kneck speed and is a fitting final track to a fine piece of work.
A word must be said about the art work. Elaine Macintosh has provided the CD with three excellent caricatures of Donal, Paul, and John for it's cover. Brilliant.
TRACK LISTING: Lautary, Prelude, La Partida, Hora Tiganeasca, Zigeuner Rapsodie, Tati Un Mama Tants, Flatbush Waltz, Tzigani Medley (Tzigani-Fisztorza, Fulginiti) Russische Melodien, Sirba.
IF YOU WANT TO CATCH TZIGANE YOU CAN SEE THEM ON NEW YEARS DAY 1999, AT THE WOODVALE GURNARD.
YAKASHA !!!!!!
Pete Turner