Product Description The music seems familiar yet maintains the spark of originality. It feels like a soundtrack lullaby, with interesting sonic dots and dashes that keep the ears tweaked, but in a peaceful, calming fashion. Wallace, an American- and one-time resident of Edinburgh- and Keldie, a Canadian, with roots in Scotland, bring these traditions alive in a new setting that bridges from the 'Public House'- or "Pub" as we know it today- to a modern, coffeehouse style for lovers of words, and soothing music. Wallace's version of, "Oh, Danny Boy" is a bestseller at iTunes, and was a listeners' pick for the Biohazard soundtrack. Noteworthy songs that float airily- with hypnotic rhythms- include: the title track, "A Red, Red Rose," the haunting, "Bound for Iona," and "Love In the Garden" (on a pear-wood flute from 1832). Thomas Moore's poem, "Echoes" is a lively reinvention, and the words of "St. Patrick's Prayer" are featured in a fresh combination of sounds with toy piano, finger cymbals, tin whistles, a banjo, and vocal hums. The album has a present-day appeal, clearly of the new world, yet with flavors and hints of traditional melodies and instruments. The performances are first-rate, the music soothing and layered, and Wallace's vocals and treatment of the lyrics and poems, is ethereal and transporting. Denis Keldie, a keyboardist with hits from the 80's with the band, The Extras, contributes wonderful layered keyboards and accordion. One new song from the sessions is a storyteller's standout, "The Old Man's Records," helping reveal the idea of roots cherished and family ties held close. This music is perfect for dramatic settings, scenes requiring a light reference to the old whilst retaining a contemporary sensibility (games/sci-fi/drama). With it's natural and unaffected charm, this is a fresh 'new world' take on some old favorites with some new characters along the way... Review "An easy listen, (but not easy listening!). It's about the words." -- E. Parker, Consultant, September 13, 2003"Danny Boy is a standout!...The voice is unique and the accompaniment is wonderful too." -- N. Rosenberg, The New School, May 24, 2004"Highly recommended." -- S. Kang, New York Prfmg Arts 08/04"James takes you through deep and tranquil Scottish lochs...when songs from the heart soothed the mind and soul." -- Todd Palumbo,Recordings For the Blind, November 3, 2003"The stories touch the heart. I love this music...Some of the passages soar from the heavens. Thanks a bunch!" -- DHW, UT Southwestern, September 26, 2003"This is beautiful music. The writing and the performances of the songs are absolutely beautiful! .... Check it out!" -- Peter Keppler, Engineer David Bowie 07/03"You guys breathe together when you perform; its like listening to your soul mates." -- Bob Schustermann, Dwight Howard Entert. 07/03 About the Artist James Wallace won his first music prize playing the recorder at the Edinburgh Music Festival. He went on to perform as a soloist at Carnegie Hall and has toured America professionally with the Tim Janis Ensemble. He was awarded the Gold Medal from the Royal Conservatory of Music in performance and has won numerous prizes as a songwriter. He was selected as the lead singer for the national Fun Tapes program and his song, "Beauty Inside" was recorded and distributed nationally to benefit the "Look Good, Feel Better" program of the Cancer Society. "A Red, Red Rose" was recorded in partnership with Denis Keldie, one of Canada's celebrated keyboardists and founding member of the hit group, "The Extras". See more