Darren Crossey's debut CD Coming Home demonstrates his musical and vocal ability with traditional songs, instrumental pieces and cover tunes. Starting with a high-energy cover of Garth Brooks' "Ireland," followed by songs like "Galtee Mountain Boy," "The Lags Song" and "Noreen Bawn," among others, and finishing with a cover of Kris Kristofferson's "Me and Bobby Magee," this album covers a lot of ground. With pieces ranging from country to folk, from ballads to lively, rollicking songs, Crossey shows he is a musical force to be reckoned with.

His strong, folksy voice, which at times sounds like it could belong to the most seasoned of country singers, flows smoothly and effortlessly through the songs. His mastery of the guitar is also apparent and comes to the fore in the instrumental pieces.

Several other musicians joined Crossey in recording the album. Sean Conway plays whistle, guitar and sings backing vocals. Mike Wallace plays the bodhran and provides backing vocals. Todd Menton plays the octave mandolin on "Ireland" and John Wright plays bass, guitar, tambourine and sings backing vocals. Greg Rierson plays percussion on "Ireland."

Highlights of the album include the tragic ballads "Noreen Bawn" and "The Dublin Minstrel," both of which are sung with a great deal of passion. Crossey's voice is well-suited for ballads and the arrangements are beautiful. "Ireland" was an excellent choice to start the album, with it's full sound and demonstration of the talent contained on the rest of the CD.

Crossey has shown his musical talents and done a wonderful job of his debut album. Anyone who enjoys Celtic or traditional music will love this album. Hopefully there will be much more to come!

- Rambles
written by Jean Emma Price
published 3 April 2004