Search - Craig Markley :: The Lone Raven

This CD knocked me on the floor. I'm still there. Buy it.

08/03/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have a very large website devoted to the Irish tinwhistle:Chiff & Fipple. I have lots of subscribers and, frankly, havebecome fairly influential in Celtic music circles. So, I get some free stuff and I listen to loads and loads of Celtic music. Craig Markley, who I do not know, sent me this CD for my review. I have not stopped listening to this drop-dead gorgeous CD. Featuring Mr. Markley on whistles, accordions, keyboards, and other stuff; and featuring a large grouping of extraordinarily gifted musician, this CD includes a mix of original tunes and traditional pieces, all influenced by Celtic music. Happily, this CD lacks a lot of the somber pseudo-mysticism that characterizes a lot of the new music filed under "Celtic." It's great listening, honest, and devoid of flashiness and gimmicks. Just great songs, lovingly and skillfully played. This recording has heart. There's also a cool CD-ROM thingy.I could go on. I love this CD and I highly, highly recommend it."

An Exquisite Dance Through Celtic Dreams

Caliban | Virginia, USA | 04/16/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"From the opening call of "The Lone Raven" to the chant-like harmonies of a "Trip to Toboso" this album is a subtle masterpiece of traditional and original Celtic melodies. Markley has created a delightful romp through a world where musical cultures blend seamlessly with one another and gain benefit from his ability to make variety both accessible and highly enjoyable. The Lone Raven is at the same time an American creation and a child of the entire globe. I was drawn in immediately by the first track (though my previous experience with music of this genre was limited to Altan, Loreena McKennitt, and various artists on the Green Linnet label) and was held spellbound until the very last note died away. I was impressed by Markley's generosity with lead vocals, as I believe this lent to a general feeling of communion throughout the album. My favorite tracks include: "Sadie's Waltz/The River," where Markley's daughter Kara shines (there is no doubt in my mind that any one who hears her vocals before reading the liner notes will be surprised by the fact that she was thirteen years of age when this was recorded). Combining wisdom well beyond her years with the fresh vibrancy of youth, she manages to, if not quite steal the show outright at least make it her own during this particular selection. Add to this her blossoming fiddle playing and there will be no doubt in your mind that musical talent certainly runs in the family. The central piano and fiddle section of "David & The Ash Pelt" is reminiscent of Romany tunes, or, at not much of stretch, perhaps the some of the classical workings of Sarasate or Wieniawski. Regardless, it remains a delightful instrumental jewel of this collection. "A Winter Lullaby" is quite a treat as well, owing no doubt to the gathering of Markley and Reddick's band Stark Raven. Harris-Stearns vocals are a marvel on this track, warm and motherly, keeping one safe from the "cool winds" that blow. "Trip to Toboso" brings things full circle again, leaving off where the title track began. Yet, where this album began with solitude, when it is over one feels as if they've made new and steadfast friends.With an impressive assortment of musicians, masterful production, and an enchanting selection of material...The Lone Raven is a highly recommended musical journey that brings ages past into a fresh, shimmering new light without losing any of the original intensity by over-polishing. All in all, it's at both crisp and professional, yet, when you close your eyes and listen, you feel very much like part of the tribe...sitting about the campfire on a cool autumn night."

Unique Celtic sound from Columbus, Ohio!

Judith Lindenau | 09/08/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have seen Craig's band, Stark Raven, play at various venues in Columbus, Ohio. If you want to hear great Celtic music, buy this album and/or check out Stark Raven in concert.Craig's non-Celtic background gives a unique sound to The Lone Raven album. The music is refreshingly different and expertly arranged. My favorite tracks are "Our Father's Garden," vocals by Sue Mogan-Mattison and "The River," sung by Craig's daughter. AMAZING!!If you like The Lone Raven, check out Stark Raven's album, and Sue Mogan-Mattison's recently released album "On Irish Time.""