Customer Reviews

Endless Seasons

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

The Rankins are a great all-round talented family. This album shows off their many talents to perfection. A cool mix of traditional celtic, and Rankin penned songs. Track #4, which comprises two songs, is sung in Gaelic. They are traditional Gaelic songs composed in Cape Breton and Nova Scotia respectively. For anyone who likes a mix of traditional with modern, pop and country, then you will love this album.

This is the first time I've heard the Rankin Family. The clarity and harmony of their voices is almost mesmerizing. This is a perfect example of contemporary Celtic music. Their talent and love of music comes across in each track. I recommend their music to anyone who loves the Irish/Scottish genre.

I probably listen to "Endless Seasons" more than just about any other album I own. Feeling depressed? Listen to "Feel the Same Way Too" and I guarantee it's going to be gone. Want to hear majesty in music? You won't beat "Boat's Lost at Sea". Like harmony in group singing? The Rankins can't be beat. I was not as happy with "North Country", but "Endless Seasons" is a jewel.

The previous reviewers are working to hard at it -- this is a down home family making music the way they like it. I was travelling in Cape Breton when North Country was released, and it undoubtedly catches the mood and the feel of the place. The locals know them on a first name basis. These are your neighbors playing at the local festival, not some Kelto-country-pop synthesis-conspiracy carefully packaged for the masses. So grab a mug, sit down, relax, and listen. Oh, and push the repeat button so you won't have to get up.

Is it Celtic? Is it folk? Is it country? Is it pop? I don't care. This album is simply a lot of fun. The strengths: beautiful harmonies, catchy tunes, and some wonderful playing (notably by John Morris Rankin and Howie MacDonald). The biggest weaknesses: Jimmy Rankin's lyrics, which while better than past efforts will never be candidates for a poetry anthology, and vocals that occasionally cross the line to "precious." The best cuts, to my ear are "Eyes of Margaret" and "Blue Eyed Suzie" (both by John Morris) and Jimmy's "You'd Feel the Same Way Too." What do we need to do to get this group some U.S. airplay?