This is the second solo recording by Gordon Duncan for the Greentrax label . As well as featuring Gordon on the highland bagpipes and Overton whistle , he is accompanied on a number of tracks by a variety of other musicians including Gerry O'Connor on banjo , Ian Carr on guitar , Andy Cook on Ugandan harp , Ranald MacArthur on bass guitar , Donald Hay on drums and Jim Sutherland on miscellaneous percussion . Oh yes -it also features Gordon playing the practice chanter! This is a decision which will probably open Gordon to some criticism but nevertheless it is a brave move in some respects and makes an attempt at elevating the practice chanter into the position of being a musical instrument in its own right . This works to a degree . The chanter played is much more pleasant to listen to than your 'run of the mill' band room practice chanter and it actually combines well with the banjo and percussion . Added to this Gordon's amazing breathing control (hence the title "Circular Breath") the effect is not totally unpleasant . I think personally that I would still have preferred to hear the excellent tunes played on the bagpipes proper .
The album is much different to the usual solo piper's album in that it is not all piping . Gordon plays a very nice tune on the whistle called 'Clan Meets Tribe' . It is a very relaxed tempo and combined with bass and practice chanter gives a very nice effect . As well being accompanied on the practice chanter with the banjo , Gordon is joined on some piping tracks by same . Incidentally , Gerry O'Connor's banjo playing is excellent .
To disprove the theory that Gordon is a 'kitchen piper' , he also plays a number of tracks in the traditional style including march strathspey and reel sets and a piobaireachd . Apart from perhaps playing the marches at a much faster tempo than we are accustomed to , Duncan acquits himself well in these . All are adorned by his incredible fingering technique .
The album also contains copious examples of Gordon's 'kitchen piping' - a number of highly entertaining pieces - many of which are his own compositions . Accompanying the album are the typed settings for each of his own tunes - a nice innovation .
This album transcends the normal boundaries of solo piping albums and should have a big appeal to non-pipers . Anything that brings piping to a wider audience cannot be bad . Of course , I am writing all this from the viewpoint of being a dedicated Gordon Duncan fan . The man is incredible . A genius,albeit one who often breaks the conventional rules . This album will not disappoint irrespective of what you think of the practice chanter and other innovations . A highly entertaining album , as good music should be.
Irish Pipe Band Association
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