Dark of the Moon
Global Rhythm Magazine
February 1, 2004
by Allison Brock
Grey Larsen's repertoire of Irish music is incomparable. The multi-instrumentalist first picked up tunes from Irish immigrants at sessions in Cleveland in the 1970s. He learned rare jigs and reels from immigrant Michael J. Kennedy (1900-1978), originally from Co. Galway. On Dark of the Moon, one of the best traditional albums of the year, Larsen and partner Paddy League bring this old music back to life. There are tunes originating from Kennedy (Larsen dubs these "crooked" - having extra beats thrown into the structure), possibly close to extinction, if he hadn't revived them. These sets are a treat for Irish music enthusiasts.
Larsen, equally comfortable (and talented) on flute, whistle and concertina, is expertly backed by League on bodhrán and guitar. Their musicianship is hard to match, and the variety of instruments keeps things interesting. In a set of crooked jigs, the two tease by switching roles: League begins by briefly picking the tune, playing the melody alongside Larsen on concertina, with Larsen finally taking backseat as accompanist. There are a few slow airs here, too; Larsen performs "The Blackbird" (one of Ireland's oldest), before breaking into a terrific version of "The Gold Ring" that features cranning techniques on flute. For those inclined to learn, Larsen is publishing some impressive instructional music books from Mel Bay Publications later in the year.