This is an excerpt from the print edition of Dirty Linen magazine #102 (October / November 2002). The magazine is available on newsstands and by subscription.

The Reel World
Small-Label Celtic &English Music
by Tom Nelligan

This issue it's mostly new CDs from U.S.-based artists, a trio of quintets along with some folk-rockers and genre-fusers, plus a compilation of traditional music from an under-represented region of the Celtic world.

The Ohio fivesome called Stark Raven has a none-too-subtle sense of humor, as demonstrated by the cover photos, in which the members appear clad in institutional white gowns. They also know how to arrange and play Celtic music from a modern American perspective, as heard on Committed [self-produced SR-0502 (2001)], their second release. They have a bright, airy style featuring a lot of flute and whistle, sweet-sounding fiddle, occasional button accordion, and a smooth rhythm base from guitars and assorted other fretted instruments that are steered by light percussion. Lead singer Sue Mogan-Mattison has a wonderfully unaffected, relaxed vocal style that shines on traditional songs like their arrangement of "The Blacksmith," with a slightly jazzy mandolin and flute backdrop, or their lilting, gliding version of "John of Hazelgreen" with a harmonious chorus and exhilarating instrumental breaks. Their tune sets are equally well crafted, full of smart licks and burnished melodies. This one was a pleasant surprise.

There are 6 more recordings discussed in this column from Dirty Linen #102 (Oct./Nov. '02). Read the full text in the magazine, available via subscription or on newsstands and in bookstores.