Based in southern California, Greenman takes Celtic music on a sizzling journey from the Middle East to outer space. Heck, I'm not even sure how to describe this sound, but I will say I like it.

A lot.

This album, too long buried in an endless pile of to-be-reviewed discs that I'm still working through as time permits, was a startling exposure to an exciting reimagining of Irish roots, global influences and trippy soundscapes, strained through a blend of traditional and electronic instrumentation and, possibly, a desert mushroom cocktail. It's not a perfect comparison, but if you like Dead Can Dance, you'll find something to like here as well.

This is hard to explain. You should get a copy and listen for yourself.

In 2004, the core of Greenman was -- and, according to their website, still is -- Ken Eros (acoustic and electric guitars, cittern, keys, loops, sitar, synth bass and vocals), Martin Morrisey (accordion, drum programs, keys, pianos, samples and vocals) and April Theriault (silver and wooden flutes, keys, synth bass, whistle and vocals). There's about a dozen guest artists contributing to the sound here as well.

They take familiar songs and melodies and do unexpected things with them, creating beautiful layers that make up something wholly new. The band has a very varied toolkit at its disposal, and the musicians are obviously willing to experiment freely. The result is something both timeless and contemporary, and surprisingly fresh.

[ visit Greenman online ]