John Renbourn Ship Of Fools CD - Import

SHIP OF FOOLS harks back to earlier John Renbourn solo efforts like the classic SIR JOHN A LOT or THE LADY AND THE UNICORN. The one important addition is vocalist Maggie Boyle, whose ethereal voice recalls the late Sandy Denny but is very much its own instrument. Boyle sings on many of these songs, and her dreamy tones beautifully match the sonorities of Renbourn's six and 12-string acoustic guitars (often overdubbed, as on the driving title track).

On tracks such as the medley "Cobbler's Jig/Maltese Brawls," Renbourn shows off his dazzling fingerpicking style and breathtaking soloing. But Renbourn is never just about empty virtuosity. His playing invariably serves only the needs of the song. SHIP OF FOOLS is a must-own for Renbourn fans.

Renbourn's departure from the complications of much of his previous recorded work is like a fresh breeze. His minimalist approach on this album perfectly suits this collection of traditional and new-traditional Celtic songs. The key ingredient herein is the enchanting, almost dreamlike work of singer Maggie Boyle: indeed, the driving cadence of the title track highlights her ethereal voice to the extent that, once heard, you simply cannot get this tune out of your head. Maggie's recorder playing accentuates her vocals and, in combination with Renbourn's restrained, yet punchy guitar work, create a musical faerie tale that is not soon forgotten. One of Renbourn's rarest solo album, this is indeed a welcome addition to Castle Music's ongoing reissue program, and though it briefly appeared on CD in the US, this marks its first appearance on CD in the UK. 2005.

Personnel includes: John Renbourn (vocals, guitar, cittern); Steve Tilston (vocals, guitar, mandolin); Tony Roberts (flute, pipes, clarinet, saxophone, background vocals); Maggie Boyle (whistle, bodhran, background vocals); Mitch Greenhill (percussion).

Audio Remixer: David Edwards.