Surprisingly, outside of the northwest U.S.A, Watercarvers Guild are still a little known band (or should I say trio), however, judging by the quality and content on this album this may soon change. Watercarvers Guild is a band to watch out for!
They are one of the new wave of contemporary acoustic bands, while not exactly 'folk' as we know it in my part of the world, they can play folk festivals, and sit alongside traditional folk bands quite comfortably. I liked the music instantly and I think you will too. They have a musical style that sits firmly in the American folk mode, but the arrangements gently flirt with bluegrass and new contemporary acoustic music. The singing is pleasing to the ear. Embossed by acoustic guitar, a smooth piano and mandolin all pinned by a tasteful bass. All the songs are written by David Casey and for the most part are well crafted. The tunes and lyric style of a couple of them put me in mind of Tanglefoot (Canada). So if you are a fan of Tanglefoot you might well enjoy this album.
Watercarver's Guild is headed by father Darrell Casey on lead guitar, mandolin and backing vocals, with his sons David Casey on lead vocals, guitar, piano, accordion, recorder, bouzouki, and percussion and Nathan Casey on electric bass, fretless bass, and vocals. The trio produces admirably, singing with accompaniment that is very smooth and tight. An extra mention must go to Darrell Casey for his guitar solos. They are well crafted and match the tune without being too fussy, slinky enough to blend in superbly. Keeping it in the family, they are joined on two tracks by cousin Nollaig Casey on fiddle.The album title and theme are a bit elusive at times but it doesn't matter. You just enjoy the selection of songs. The first song, 'Sailing Away', is not about sailing ships as you might imagine from the title, but turns out to be about balloonist Vincent Lunardi. The next song is 'Captain Maxwell' and is about a sinking ship. 'Waiting For You' has a lot of hidden meaning. After the only instrumental track ,'Carolyn's Ramble to Cashel', comes 'Neil Young Fan'. This and the next song, 'Self Made Man', have to take the prize for being my favourite tracks, but 'Amelia' about Amelia Earhart is also worthy of an extra mention.
The album is well presented and the sleeve notes contain all the lyrics to David's songs. Essential readings if you are to fully appreciate the material. To purchase the album and listen to a few sample tracks I recommend you visit Watercarvers Guild Web site.
