Canadian Pat Chessell is a Vancouver-based pub singer who, on Live & Lusty, gives a boisterous pub show. It's rough and raucous, which suits Chessell's purposes just fine; according to the liner notes, he hoped "to capture the spirit and energy of playing in an Irish pub ... in front of a very rowdy crowd."

The band is Chessell on vocals and guitars, Rick Chapman on drums and backing vocals, and Nathan Powell on bass and backing vocals. Guests are Tina Kelly and Kyle Taylor on fiddles, Duane Keough on percussion and backing vocals, Scott Smith on electric and steel guitars, Jeremy Holmes on standup bass, and Seamus O'Leary on tinwhistle on a bonus studio track.

Tracks include traditional Irish tunes such as "Johnson's Motor Car," "Black Velvet Band" and "One on the Road," plus covers including "Paddy Kelly's Brew," "Sally MacLennane" and "Barrett's Privateers."

Chessell has a countrified twang that will appeal to folks who like a little country in their Irish blend. I'd rather do without, but I'm not complaining; it's a fun roundup of songs performed with enthusiasm and flair. This disc is more than 10 years old at the time of this review, but check out Chessell's website, it looks like he's still performing -- and it seems like his gigs are a hoot. (Live & Lusty isn't currently available on Amazon, but it looks like he's recorded several albums since.)

[ visit Pat Chessell's website ]