The Barra MacNeils

As a debut album, The Barra MacNeils serves as a reminder of where this talented family/band's influences rest. The album is comprised mostly of traditional Celtic songs, mainly jigs and reels, all played expertly, but with little deviation from the original and traditional arrangements. It is worth noting that the band was quite young at the time of the recording; Lucy MacNeil was only 16, yet played incredible violin/fiddle (the "Highland Queen" medley serves as an excellent example of her talented and versatile playing). Stewart MacNeil co-writes three tracks on the album, and there is an early indication of his future brilliance as a composer. In fact, his "One for Jeffy" is the standout track of the album. The album is very enjoyable on its own, and is also important in tracing the evolution of this extremely talented band, as well as an excellent example of the fine traditional music from the East Coast of Canada.