RUM RAGGED

Canada, and more specifically its eastern province of Newfoundland and Labrador, was no exception to this mass emigration.Canada, and more specifically its eastern province of Newfoundland and Labrador, was no exception to this mass emigration. From the Irish-Canadian community, Rum Ragged has taken a bold approach to the music of their homeland with a respect for their roots and a creative, contemporary twist.

Originally formed in 2016 by multi-instrumentalist Aaron Collis and singer/guitarist Mark Manning, they recorded a self-titled debut album in the process, which was followed by three more. They are back with a fifth album, Gone Jiggin'. In the meantime they have been joined by Colin Grant on fiddle and step dancing and Zack Nash on banjo. And Billy Sutton (vocals, bodhrán, guitar, bouzouki) has joined them to lend a hand on this album.

This album, featuring a selection of twelve tracks, gives pride of place to melodious ballads, as well as three instrumentals (jigs and reels). Traditional tunes from Ireland and Scotland are complemented by a handful of compositions by local songwriters. The Celtic heritage is evident from the opening track, The Road to Lushes Bight, a celebration of Newfoundland's island culture. Aaron's tin whistle adds a delicate touch of Irish colour. This Irish heritage is even more pronounced on Kelly and the Ghost. Colin's melancholy fiddle is the perfect introduction to Riley, a light, bouncy song.
All in all, 43 minutes of lively music, sometimes acoustic, sometimes more upbeat, with a warm, exciting sound, served up by beautiful voices and top-notch instruments. It's a shame this music and this band aren't more popular on the side of the Atlantic.

HM Records LHM090 - www.rumragged.com