Restless Home [Import]

Richly voiced, creatively arranged, accordion-led music that incorporates a variety of musical inspirations old and new from both Ireland and the continent. In the liner notes for "1990," a previous release, it is said that "(Orion's) music is an entirely personal interpretation of the Celtic tradition... Recently the band has been playing more of its own compositions, combining a multitude of musical influences." That is certainly true of "Restless Ground," which branches out even further than its predecessor albums in search of new ideas. Don't worry--this isn't Enigma or some techno-beat laden shadow of world folk music. Rather, the work of Orion has always stuck close to its traditional roots, adding modernity only in the form of original compositions and tasteful additions of electric bass or keyboards, and seeking fusion by incorporating the traditional melodies of other European cultures--in this case the Belgians, Bretons, Roumani and Balkans. The result is a delightful album full of spunk and soul, expertly defined by Raquel Gigot's spirited accordion playing. New elements in "Restless Ground" include more eastern European songs and several songs with vocals. With all the guest musicians, there's a bit more disparity of sound and style here than on previous Orion releases. There aren't quite as many sweet, sad pieces either--a sub-genre that they handle just beautifully. I miss them. But #1, "The Shores of Marsannay," #3, "Enez Du," and #14, "Enina's Dream," are lovely examples, in fine form, and the increased number of lively pieces are certainly lots of fun. In the ever-changing collection of musicians that have made up Orion over the years, founding members Gigot and Rudy Velghe (fiddle and nyckelharpa) are joined this time by a truly international assortment of other musicians: Jamie McMenemy on bouzouki and voice, Mark Keyaert and Pascal Chardome on keyboards and percussion, Donal Lunny on bouzouki and bodhran, Philip Catharine on jazz guitar, Alain Genty on fretless bass, Pierre Michaud on cello, and former full-time Orion members Solg Siberil, Nicolas Quemener and Bernard L'Hoir on guitar, piano, etc. Previous releases by Orion, also great, include "Blue Room" and "1990." And for more great Celtic accordion playing, be sure to listen to Phil Cunningham's outstanding performances with groups like Silly Wizard and Relativity.