Simply Whistle

Manchester-based tin whistle player Pat Walsh is considered one of the best in the game and this new set of 19 jigs and reels, a mixture of traditional material and originals, is a bumper example of her powers. Subtle backing throughout from producer Mike McGoldrick, John Doyle and Tim Edey shows that the record means business and it goes about it in a unshowy but high quality way.

The gentle guitar playing throughout is particularly satisfying in that it takes some of the edge off the pronounced tin whistle, which, when played high and solo is an acquired taste. Tunes like ‘Humours of Whiskey’ and ‘Fingal’s Cave', both padded with guitar and subtle percussion, work beautifully, but best of all is central track ‘Claudia’s Waltz', a slower number in 3/4 time, where Walsh's whistle shares the stage with plucked guitar and pipes. Without doubt one for fans of the tin whistle, but most will appreciate the considered arrangements and impeccable playing.