These days, there aren't many people out on the circuit who use the autoharp. Indeed it could be said that the instrument is in need of a rebirth so that it doesn't fade from festival use in the next decade.  Marc Gunn is that rebirth. In a CD that blends traditional and original works, Marc Gunn harkens back to a simpler time, and perhaps even a better time.

Robert Burns' "Killiecrankie" marches along in a fashion that the author would have loved. Many artists might find it difficult to wrap their tongues around the Burns burr, Marc Gunn has no such problem. Of course, this means that listeners have to wrap their brains around the thick burr, but it is well worth the effort.

Truly striking is the a cappella rendition of "Parting Glass". A cappella music is difficult to record and keep interesting, even more so when it is but a single voice. There is no such problem here though, this soulful track has a slight undertone of gospel and truly works and manages to stand alone. Stark and clean, this is a track worth purchasing the CD for.  

"The Barrel Song" (aka "Paddy's Excuse") is always a favorite, but one can not help but wonder if this should have been left as an a cappella song or if Marc Gunn should have added some autoharp. While this song cannot help but be fun, this version doesn't stand out from other versions. So, while an enjoyable track, it doesn't manage to stand out, as opposed to the next track. 

Another fun traditional tune is "Lanigan's Ball". Upbeat and up-tempo, manages to be both discordant and smooth at the same time. Always a quick song, most renditions leave the listener only able to sing along with the chorus...able to only wonder at the lyrics to the verses. This version is sharp enough that, despite the high tempo, the casual listener will find themselves singing along after the first time through.

Of the original numbers on the CD, there is one which stands head and shoulders above the rest, "Buttercup's Lament". Inspired by the film, "The Princess Bride", this song was Marc Gunn's first solo hit on the Celtic Top 40. Slow and sad, one cannot help but be touched by this heart-stirring song.

The CD is $12.97 from CD Baby.