The Danny McLaughlin Band Impresses with Dark Wood

In the world of Celt-influenced folk rock, the Uilleann Pipes have long been the lesser known little sister of the Highland bagpipe. Sometimes called "the devil's instrument" for their eerie sound, they still tend to evoke the question "what the heck are those?" when spotted or heard at a festival or rock venue. However, as the popularity of the Celtic Rock genre continues to grow in this country, a handful of musicians are riding the wave and bringing this wonderful traditional instrument of Ireland to the foreground.

Joining the ranks of talented Uilleann pipers such as Eric Rigler and Neil Anderson, Danny McLaughlin and his band are making music that transcends the traditional while respecting it and is redefining the genre of modern Celtic Music. Many bands seek to incorporate the pipes into their music, but only a few do that with true success. Even fewer have done so with Uilleann pipes. An accomplished musician for over 20 years, Danny's fingers will amaze even the most talented of his contemporaries. His latest recorded effort, Dark Wood, is a CD that belongs in the collection of every Celtic music fan.

Dark Wood is not easily pigeonholed into a category. Elements of Celtic Rock, Fusion Jazz, and Traditional Folk are all present here. These elements are brought together in an impressive collection of fresh music that is unique and familiar at the same time. Fans of Bad Haggis or Rathkeltair will undoubtedly appreciate this recording, though I sincerely hope an even wider audience will give it a listen. The CD immediately grabbed my attention with the energetic tune Countdown, and did not let go until releasing me into a peacefully sated state with the mellow and New-Agey Perpetual Frenzy. The traditional tunes Astoria, Hide Out, Western Wind and Farewell to Erin are presented in decidedly modern arrangements that will undoubtedly bring new fans to traditional Irish music and preserve aspects of the music for generations to come.The eerie Ancient Gates is a true representation of how lovely the Uilleann pipes truly are.

Complimenting Danny McLaughlin on Dark Wood are Assaf Hakimi on bass and double bass, Hadar Noiberk on flutes and keyboards and Eamon Ellams on drums and percussion. Fans of Celtic Rock will remember Ellams from his work with The Prodigals. Ziv Shalev, featured on guitar and keyboards on the CD, also produced the CD and was involved in the writing and arrangement process. The CD is available for download or hard copy purchase through www.dannymclaughlin.com, iTunes, CD Baby, Rhapsody and emusic.