The first full length album from Rillian and the Doxie Chicks shows that they are a group that bears watching. Indeed, I've already noticed their influence on other emerging groups. If there is a "new" faire sound, it may well be this group. The music is slick and fun, yet the group doesn't shy away from some rarely heard traditional tunes either. 

Opening the album is the old traditional "Sam's Gone Away." While there are numerous versions of this song out there, this is certainly one of the more old fashioned and is a bold choice which pays off. With a guttural chorus in the background and accompanied by the sounds of the sea and battle, this song has a wonderful feel to it. Starting simply with the plaintive shrilling of a bo's'n's whistle and gets richer and more full with each verse.  

"O'Neill's March" is a song that is fun to listen to, but often loses it's impact without anything to put it into context. No such problem here, as the entire story is brought to life along with the song, telling the tale in a fashion that enriches the song itself. Musically speaking there are crisper versions out there, but without the background of the song to support them they must pale to a version that brings the old history to life.

Skip Henderson's "Billy Bones" has certainly been increasing in popularity of late and is cropping up in a few new places. This version isn't bad, but seems to be lacking in something. The song itself is a fairly somber one and suffers from the background pub sounds, which distract more than enhance the song. 

However, lest you think that Rillian and the Doxie Chicks can't do stirring and somber, rest assured that isn't the case. "Rolling Down to Old Maui" is done in a fashion that one can imagine the pangs of the homesick sailors on a homeward journey. Much like "Sam's Gone Away", there are quite a few versions of this tune out there and again, this is one of the better ones. 

The CD itself is slickly produced, though sometimes seeming a bit overproduced. There are many bits layered into the background along with the music and it can get to be a bit too much. The pub sounds in "Gravel Walk" once again seem to clash with the music itself while the added "oo's" are a wonderful enhancement. While an occasional background addition can be a bit of fun for a Ren CD, overuse of such effects can be a bit risky. Parts of this album skirt the edge of overproduction, but the overall product is quite an accomplishment. 

Still, of all the tracks on the CD, "Rowdy Soul" really stands out. The driving chant in the background adds to a feeling of atmosphere that captures the spirit of this album. While "Health to the Company" is a nice traditional song to end this CD with, "Rowdy Soul" (quite possibly the best track on the album) should have been given that place of honor.

"Get Down (Like an Anchor) " is  $15.00 + $3 S&H