It must be said that when examining the line-up for Crannog, one builds up fairly high expectations. As close to a "super-group" as one finds in festival music, Crannog is made up of Gabriele Decker (Double Indemnity), Frank O'Gara (Double Indemnity), Ky Hote (Featherstone, Ky Hote and Owl), and Michael Huebner (E Muzeki). Take those performers and have Ty Billings (Minstrels of Mayhem) co-produce the album and you get "No Band is An Island."

This, the second release from Crannog, is quite a showcase for the band's collective talents. Indeed, the flow of the music is so natural, one would think that the band had been performing together for decades instead of years.

There is not a single track on this CD that disappoints, and the CD starts with a crisp version of "The Hills of Connermara." Any song at speed can be tough to keep tight, but this version is flawless. Gabriele Decker's vocals are light and set just the right tone for this song, which sets the right tone for the rest of the CD.

"Maid on the Shore" is always a treat to hear and Crannog's version doesn't fail to deliver. Stark and simple, the track focuses on the telling of the story, contrasting to so many artists where the music is all and the story secondary. This is certainly one of the better renditions of this song that is out there.

Another standout track is "The Ballad of William Kidd". There are a few versions of this song out there and interestingly enough each one seems almost wholly stylistically different. Crannog's take on the traditional tune is soft and peaceful, and one can almost hear the regret of misdeeds as the end of Kidd's life approaches. An interesting take on the song, and one which stands apart from other versions released in recent years.

Closing out the CD is "Beggars to God," and a fine choice it is. Lightly spiritual and uplifting, the song sets a final positive tone for the album, much like saying goodbye to an old friend, and it is fitting, because for anyone with this CD in their collection it will fast become an old and dear friend.

Run, don't walk. You want this CD.