Pulling Out The Stops

One of the common characteristics of the older generation of traditional musicians was the respect they gave to 'The Music,' understanding that regardless of their individual talents they were servants of the collective tradition. It is heartening to hear a recording that keeps this in mind with excellent playing, interesting tune selections, extensive liner notes and one that is blessedly lacking any electric 'improvements' or hint of an orangutan playing a didgeridoo as a special guest! Dan, a Pittsburgh native and long time resident of Anchorage, Alaska, made most of this recording in Portland, Oregon, USA. Almost all the additional musicians participating are Portland residents, showing the remarkable universal appeal of Irish music and that Portland does in fact have some talented musicians. A very enjoyable listen. Well done. -- Mikey Beglan, Portland Kevin Burke leads a host of guest stars whose very presence tells you this is good stuff, and indeed it is! Lots of tunes and songs---all trad and all solid!! -- Bill Margeson, Irish-American News, Chicago Great sound there, indeed -- Joan Hanrahan, The West Wind, ClareFM, Ennis, Ireland Some great tunes and songs -- Colm Sands, Folk Club, BBC Radio Ulster, Belfast 'Dan's a Pittsburgh-born box player, who as far as I know is currently based in Anchorage, Alaska; his playing style is both nimble and pleasingly full-toned: honest and easy, I guess you could term it homey and old-fashioned but it's engrossing and thoroughly enjoyable for all that. Dan is here joined, on the follow-up to his well-received 2006 CD Land Of Sunshine, by a small handful of musician friends for what seems intended to approximate the format of a convivial, laid-back session (i.e. mostly tune-sets but a few songs thrown in for good measure and contrast)... this is an appealingly enjoyable record which majors on the heartwarming, life-affirming power of good craic and reliable musicianship.' -- David Kidman, The Living tradition, Scotland 'Dan is an American accordionist who favours the Jackie Daly and Paddy O'Brien approach to box playing over flashing arpeggios. This album is solid, beefy and devoid of showmanship. Some old favourites and choice new tunes with guest slots from Kevin Burke and a bodhran solo from the late Gerard McDonnell. Delightful meat and two veg traditional music of the old stock.' -- fRoots, London Sie swingt einfach wunderbar frhlich vor sich hin. -- Folker, Germany (traditional folk & world music magazine)