Matt Molloy

by Matt Molloy

Overview

Matt Molloy's first solo album came after he'd had more than ten years' experience as a founding member of both Planxty and the Bothy Band. He subsequently took flutist Mick Turbridy's place in the Chieftains, where he has remained ever since while continuing to produce solo albums on a regular basis. This is one of his finest and most focused recordings; the minimal accompaniment from guitarist Donal Lunny keeps the spotlight on Molloy's finely crafted, virtuosic playing style. Apart from his remarkable dexterity and speed, two things set him apart from other Irish players: the very advanced degree to which he has integrated piping technique into his flute style, and his astounding breath control. The latter is particularly noticeable on "The Humours of Ballyloughlin," on which he produces more ornaments with his lungs than many flute players can execute with their fingers. A sharp, reedy tone in the low registers is another hallmark of Molloy's playing; the tonal definition he achieves on the gorgeous "Lament for Staker Wallace" and the midtempo reel "The Templehouse" is a wonder to hear. But no matter how important his playing is from a technical standpoint, you never get the feeling Molloy is showing off. There's such an unaffected, joyous quality to his virtuosity that it's impossible not to be swept along with his playing. ~ Rick Anderson

Product Details

Release Date:	01/29/2008
Label:	Green Linnet / Mulligan Records
UPC:	0766397300429
Rank:	86730

Tracks

1. Boys of the Lough/The Tarbolton
2. Maud Millar/Poll an Madra Uisce
3. The Lament for Staker Wallace/The Green Gowned Lass/
4. The Gold Ring
5. Patsy Toughey's/The Maid Behind the Bar
6. Willie Coleman's/Pull the Knife and Stick It Again
7. Josie McDermott's/Martin Ainsboro's
8. McDonagh's/Toss the Feathers
9. The New Policeman/The Dunmore Lasses
10. The Humours of Ballyloughlin
11. The Templehouse
12. Traver's Reels
13. The Groves
14. Humours of Drinagh/The Mist on the Mountain
15. The Bucks of Oranmore

Album Credits

Performance Credits

Matt Molloy   Primary Artist,Flute
Donal Lunny   Guest Artist,Bouzouki,Accompaniment

Technical Credits

Donal Lunny   Producer,Performer,Arranger
Matt Molloy   Arranger,Producer,Performer
Micheal O Domhnaill   Producer
Peter Browne   Liner Notes
Art Foote   Typography
Whitney Beard   Design,Layout Design
Traditional   Composer