When I set out on my Eurorock journey I really hoped that I would find the unusual among the more predictable. Therefore I am really grateful that Shannon’s album Psychofolk came along.
What arrived was a beautifully packaged album with stunning Celtic art work. When I put the CD on I heard superbly delivered Irish folk music complete with traditional instruments and awash with all the atmosphere of sitting in an pub somewhere deep within Ireland itself. However, when I looked more closely, I discovered that the band are in fact from Poland, I was beside myself with excitement. How more European can you get? Grass roots traditionally based Irish folk music in all its glory being performed by musicians from Poland. I had to find out more.
Shannon were formed back in 1994 in Olsztyn, Poland and have gone on to release five albums, a film soundtrack, and play over a hundred gigs a year on the European concert circuit. They capture all the richness of traditional Irish folk music and add just the right amount of modern technique to produce music that will enthrall, delight, and enchant its listener. Light a fire, pour some wine, and join the company of friends, the album radiates warmth and connection.
There is something totally absorbing about Celtic folk music. It somehow makes you feel part of the past, the present, and the countryside around us - be that Ireland, France, America or indeed Poland. I imagine this is not easy music to perform, particularly as you have to be able to play so many traditional instruments, but Shannon have mastered it and produce a sound that precisely captures the heritage of the music. There are pipes, bagpipes, whistles, mandolin, bodhran, violin, pianos, and guitars. There have been many twists and turns and a revolving door of personnel during the history of Shannon and it makes for a good read on their website. (Personally, I recommend the English version.)
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