That's a interesting concept for an album
title, I thought to myself, while reading the label which includes
a picture of a cowboy hat framed by celtic style artwork. I looked
more carefully at the artwork and noticed a cowboy on horse back
cleverly worked into the design.
This recording starts with traditional Irish fiddle tunes and
evolves into American western melodies like "Whoopie Ti Yi
Yo, Git Along Little Dogies," and "Shenandoah."
Being an experienced listener I can detect Irish influenced licks
on the fiddle and mandolin even on tunes played purposely American
style. Despite my discerning ears though, most of the Irish tunes
sound Irish, and the cowboy tunes sound American, particularly
because of the fine country mandolin playing.
I enjoyed an exception to the rule in the Texas swing style version
of the Irish melody "The Girl I Left Behind Me." Irish
tunes such as the "Maid Behind the Bar," though, reminded
me of a good traditional pub session. The overall feeling of the
album is relaxed, not frenetic dance music, nor just easy listening,
but a mix of waltzes, reels at a little less than session speed,
country style fiddling, and even a song. This recording isn't
merely American tunes played in Irish style though. Its also not
just a collection of someone's favorite Irish and American tunes
on the same album.
I tried to put my finger on what the music reminded me of. Finally
it hit me, the album sounds as if it were designed for a movie
sound track. It invoked emotions and images in my mind which went
beyond what I might expect of an album of isolated tunes. There
was a coherent emotional theme. I don't know if this was the intent
of the musicians, but if I was them, I'd send copies off to every
film maker in sight.
For ordinary listener types I predict satisfaction with the clean
playing and creative arrangements. Its an all purpose recording,
suitable for driving in the car, while working around the house,
or jogging with the walkman.