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Gaelic New Age: Convincing Interface : ALASDAIR FRASER AND PAUL MACHLIS “The Road North.” Sona Gaia *** 1/2

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Gaelic New Age music? Hmmm, an interesting idea. Fraser and Machlis have composed and adapted some traditional-sounding Irish themes into a very untraditional format. Fraser’s fiddle playing, rich in ornamental twists and turns, is juxtaposed against the strikingly contemporary settings created by Machlis’ piano and synthesizer.

The results, even in pieces like the sprightly “Cowboy Jig,” are fascinating--a convincing interface between old and new. At its best--”Bovaglie’s Plaid” is a stirring example--the blend of synthesizer and fiddle will bring passionate tears to the hearts of the most hidebound traditionalists.

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