The progressive Celtic band
Solas have been lauded for their energetic and slightly modern approach to traditional music. Their success has spawned successful solo outings from group leader
Seamus Egan, guitarist
John Doyle, and vocalist Karen Casey. The latest member to wander out the nest is accordionist
Mick McAuley. His debut,
An Ocean's Breadth, is an excellent collection of jigs, reels, waltzes, and ballads custom-made for his nimble fingers and rich voice. Produced with a refreshing crispness and accompanied on guitar by bandmate
Egan,
McAuley burns through 11 tunes including the sprightly opener "Road to Malatchey" and the rousing "Pumphouse Jig" like a seasoned athlete, without straying too far from
Solas' signature frenetic playing style. It's when
McAuley opens his mouth that something remarkable happens. His deep, emotive lilt is comparable to legendary
Planxty,
Patrick Street frontman
Andy Irvine, and effortlessly pulls the listener away from distraction like a fair, but authoritative father. ~ James Christopher Monger