Bands who write their own material or employ unusual instrumentation are easier -- you can critique them on their innovation as well as their performance. Traditional bands are tougher -- the focus is solely on execution.

I pay a high compliment to Threadneedle St when I say the proficient delivery of music on Havin' a Tune sent me back to the sets I play with my own Irish band to reconsider our own arrangements. Havin' a Tune is that good.

The sets on this all-instrumental CD are packed with familiar tunes. But the flash of recognition never becomes tiresome; the pieces are cunningly linked and crafted to make these old friends fresh and new.

Threadneedle St -- and yes, they use the unpunctuated abbreviation in their name -- is a talented quartet from Texas. Musicians are Bobby Bush on guitar, Melina Wilkins on fiddle, Jim Brunke on bodhran and bones, and Peggy Turner on tin whistle, flute and recorder. The liner notes explain their intention to recreate the feel of a friendly in-home session; I'd say this is an admirable success.

For some good trad music, take a drive down to Threadneedle St. These folks are worth the trip.

[ visit Threadneedle St online ]