'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.
