Ceilidh

Ceilidh, the third album from the self¬proclaimed enfants terribles of the English folk-dance scene, is a curious beast. Opening with a spirited ‘Tip Top Polka’ Mark Jolley’s violin suggests a fairly traditional interpretation of the old favourite. But it is when the rock guitar kicks in that it becomes clear where the guys are heading – think rock-folk rather than folk-rock. For many reasons this fusion shouldn’t work, but generally it does – and does so well – though there are still a few glitches in the mix.

They’ve toned down the synth effects so dominant in their previous albums but they are still lurking here. ‘Dutch Hornpipe’ opens with a truly nauseating synth horn whilst ‘Fretful Porcupine’ includes a simply naff keyboard solo. But these are blips on an otherwise fun album. Playfully mixing various musical influences, including Latin and reggae, Ceilidh is brimming with the blistering drum and guitar work that characterises the band – the feisty ‘Seneca Square Dance’ would get even the most reluctant toe-tapper onto the floor. Calling the album Ceilidh makes it clear Tickled Pink are a live band at heart and it is in that setting that the guys are at their best. Their raucous energy simply doesn’t translate very well to CD. Put these guys on stage in a sweaty, crowded hall and it is a whole different experience altogether.