Commonplaces
Self-Released, 2020
8/10
The guitarist and banjo extraordinaire Ed Sweeney and esteemed vocalist Mary Lee Partington are in fine company here, as Sheila Falls brings her fiddle and Torrin Ryan his uilleann pipes, flute and whistle to songs that tell stories about immigrants, farmers and factory workers during 19th and 20th century America.
“The Manchester Mule Spinner” starts the album with expressive, soulful vocals from Partington as Falls’ fiddle makes a strong impression on the cultured folk song, and “Times Are Getting Hard Boys” follows with warm vocal scatting as Sweeney’s guitar work adds much beauty to the bare setting.
Although there’s just 7 songs, each one is carefully crafted, including the powerful and introspective “Deer Island”, while “New England’s Daughter” benefits greatly from Sweeney’s banjo prowess. The album exits on “So Here’s To You”, where a whistle from Ryan contributes much to the playful spirit of the record highlight.
With a good mix of originals and traditionals, the 4 players here all have a healthy list of accolades on their resumes, and this rich and vintage folk listen is certainly another impressive endeavor.
Travels well with: Jim Stanard- Color Outside The Lines; Philip Scott Poli- One Sky