The "The Long Notes" debut album arrived in great time for Paddy's Day...they had a great reception at the Celtic Connections Festival this year by all accounts and after listening to the album I can see why. This is the best traditional instrumental album I've heard so far this year and I hope the standard of other trad based releases continues like this one. There are some great numbers on here from powerful uplifting Jigs and Reels to airs that will no doubt please those hardened traditional musical fans and bring new ones into the fold as they demonstrate a cutting edge to their music that makes it all the more enjoyable and exciting...it's just what the trad scene needs.

The band are

Jamie Smith: Glaswegian fiddler/guitarist and finalist of the BBC Radio Scotland Young Musician of the Year

Brian Kelly: London Irish Banjo/Mandolin Maestro (Shane McGowan and the Popes/multiple All-Ireland, All-Britain Champion)

Colette O'Leary: Piano Accordion who moved from Ireland to London in 2001 having toured with the highly successful and vibrant group the Bumblebees and All-Ireland Champion. They all came to know each other through the great music scene of Camden in London which has always been a hot house of activity for the traditional music scene.

The album also features some top guest musicans including guitarist and vocalist Ewan Roberstson, Julia Reid on bouzouki, Tim Edey on guitar/bass and Paddy Gallagher, well respected London based guitar backer.

You will get your taste of it by tuning in as virtually every track has gone onto the playlist...

To find out more pay a visit to their Myspace or buy it at Footstompin