TalkAwhile - The Folk Corporation Forum

'Mahone Brew' The Family Mahone.

I suppose that I should declare a bias. Anything with echoes of The Pogues is off to a good start with me and The Family Mahone captures that spirit.

The album has nine drinking songs, three live tracks and a love song. I assume that the love song is for when you become all emotional, after the drinking.

When I first heard The Mahones, I was expecting a novelty act and along with several thousand people at Cropredy, we were very plesently surprised. They are serious contenders and accomplished musicians. This CD reinforces that.
It's possible that DJ Mahone's greatest talent is as a lyricist. There are an awful lot of words on these tracks, done with whit and placed with precision.

Highlights of the CD:
'The Church of St. Mahone' brought an instant smile to my face. Great tune and glorious irreverence.
'Broader In The Beam' A torrent of words and music. I haven't twigged who it's about yet.
'Will You Stay?' A love song, about the wooing of a southern softy.
'Friday Busking Club' Based on a true story.

Now my criticism. I think it was mixed and mastered by musicians and they are far too sensitive souls. This record needed a run through the valve compressors at LOUD! You would have lost the more subtle instrumentation, but it would have sounded more live.

Anyway his album is a must.
(However seeing as a 'must' is a stampede of elephants in the mating season....)

Colin
Lords of Time & Space Caravan Club

If I could find a link to where you can buy the CD I'd add it.  :-\

Thanks Colin.

Broader in the Beam is about Mr MacGowan

The shopping link is http://www.thefamilymahone.co.uk/albums.htm.

My first exposure to the Mahones was at Cambridge and they are a fantastic live act, it almost comes across on record, but I urge you to see them live if humanly possible.  Falling about at the lyrics several pints to the good with 100s of others is really infectious. Great lyrics, DJ. The Church of St Mahone is my current fave.

However, this is a really good album, next best thing to being there - I'll be back for more, Doc. 

Best described as the Pogues but with better teeth!

David

Just bought the new one and can't wait to hear it. (Thanks for the help Doc)

I agree with David about the Live bit. Have seen them a couple of times since Cropredy and they are an excellent live act. See them if you can, you won't be disappointed.

MikeC