Connie & Paul have spent the last 15 years entertaining audiences throughout the Miramichi and Maritimes region of New Brunswick in Canada. One their third CD, Dancing in the Moonlight, they continue to provide us with tasteful folk music combined with strong vocal harmonies. Their music has often been compared to the Clancy Brothers and the Irish Rovers.

Even though ten of the twelve songs are original tunes, the CD has a very traditional folk sound to it. Paul McGraw's lead vocals and guitar are prominently featured on most of the songs. Connie Doucet's alto voice provides lead vocals on several songs, as well as very pleasing harmonies on the rest. The songs range from gentle love songs to sea shanty-like tunes. Their music contains obvious influences of folk, Celtic and traditional folk music from the Miramichi region.

"The Alexandra," sung like an old sea shanty, is a true story about an old steamer on the Miramichi River. "The Lady Christine" was also inspired by sailors on old ships. One of the CD's best songs is "The Dutchman," a beautiful song about two people growing old together. "This Old Man" is a nice tribute to the men who were affected by a reduction in catches in the Canadian fisheries. "America (The Promise)" is a love story based on Irish emigration. The CD's two traditional songs, "Nancy Whiskey," a fun Scottish pub song, and "Johnny I Hardly Knew Ye" round out an enjoyable collection of music.

Connie & Paul have found a formula that combines good melodies and well-written lyrics. If that sounds good to you, Dancing in the Moonlight is a good choice.

[ by Dave Townsend ]
Rambles: 30 June 2001