In passing, more than En Passant, accurately describes this release. As two members of the group leave this spring, there is a passing of a time in the history of Queen's Gambit. This album certainly shows the passing of a wonderful period of recordings and it may be a while before any further releases. That said, the CD itself is fun...as one would expect.

"Wayfaring Stranger", an American spiritual is a surprising treat. There are literally thousands of versions of this old traditional tune and this one seems perfectly placed. One would be hard pressed to think of a single person who would, when listening to this version, would think that its origins are American. The song is beautiful and this version is, well, perfect.

"Factory Girl" is an Irish ballad that most listeners will have never heard before, and one that folks are unlikely to hear at many faires. That said, this is a great introduction to this song and it can stand up to Sinéad O'Connor's cover of the song...and that is saying something.

"Queen of Argyll" is one of the songs that Queen's Gambit chose to re-record for this CD. Listening to this recording and comparing it to the earlier recording shows exactly how much this group has grown. This cover is free from the negative traits of the older recording, and ranks up with the better recordings of this tune. 

Parody can be a rather hit or miss affair and are certainly VERY subjective. With that disclaimer firmly stated, I must say that not everyone is going to like "McDonald's Kitchen". It sounds beautiful, and musically is flawless. However, "Streets of London" is a very beloved tune and hearing in parodied in this way might not be for everyone. On first listen it is cute and fun, but for some it may wear thin quickly.

Closing the album with "Bring on the Starlight" (listed as "Starlight") is perfect. How many nights at faire have ended at the gates with this song? It is a fitting tribute to the end of this permutation of Queen's Gambit that this CD end with this track.

"En Passant" should soon be available from CD Baby.