Simon Thoumire – Solo 1
Tartan tapes – CDWH001
This is the first recording in a new series of White Label CD’s from Tartan Tapes. The idea is that these are low-cost but high-quality albums, available only on the web [www.tartantapes.com] or by e.mail [sales@tartantapes.com], with no graphics, no sleeve notes and no advertising costs. Since Tartan Tapes is Simon’s own label, he’s kicked off the series with a welcome solo recording.
A member of the groups Seannachie and Keep it Up, and with recordings of his own band on the Green Linnet and Acoustic Radio labels, Simon Thoumire is well-known as a performer on both sides of the Atlantic. He is also much in demand as a composer of new music in both contemporary and traditional genres. Both these aspects are in evidence on this recording.
Mr. Thoumire is a virtuoso concertina-player with a very modern style, leaning towards jazz. Solo 1 combines Irish, Scottish and Swedish traditional tunes with half a dozen Thoumire compositions. The playing here is technically near perfect, and the material is varied and entertaining. This is a true solo CD: concertina and nothing else, but concertina played as you’ve never heard it before. For most people a reel by Maire Bhreathnach would be enough of a challenge, but not for our Simon: he gives it an almost atonal interpretation, with plenty of ear-jarring improvisation. His variations on The Flowers of Edinburgh are particularly good too, as is the untitled slow air with its low harmonies. The original compositions include a pair of jaunty marches, a couple of interesting experimental pieces and the unashamedly virtuostic showpiece Ponyjigg which will turn many players green with envy.
As a snapshot of contemporary traditional music, and a target for aspiring musicians, this CD is an unqualified success. As a listening album, it’s quite heavy going but worth the effort. My only real criticism is that it’s a bit short on length at 42 minutes, but it’s also much cheaper than most albums of similar quality.
Alex Monaghan
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