Not quite a change of direction for the Clare accordion superstar, but her first studio album in four years finds the large ensemble that normally accompanies her pared down to a quartet, albeit one with no shortage of notable guests joining in the fun. Comprised of Michael McGoldrick of Capercaille fame on flute and whistles, along with Dezi Donnelly on fiddle and Shannon’s long-time guitarist Jim Murray, it’s just as effective as her trademark big band sound (she'll be touring under the name Renegade). And with the addition of Robert Plant guitarist Justin Adams and sax-man Richie Buckley, there’s no doubting the array of instrumental talent on offer.
A pair of gently rollicking instrumentals – the Irish traditional-sounding ‘The Maid Behind The Bar’ and the world music textures of ‘Neckbelly’ - make a powerful opening salvo. The full rock rhythm section on ‘Freemount Bypass’, which follows, recalls Moving Hearts’ early instrumental experiments. In complete contrast, the ragga/African rhythms of ‘Got A Hold Of Me’ (the first single from the album) featuring rapper Roachie and a cameo from Shannon’s dog Gaffo, adds a fresh twist to her ever-broadening musical landscape.
The other notable difference evident here is that Sharon moves from centre stage, allowing others equal billing. Thus, Jim Murray takes the lead vocal on a plaintive version of Ewan MacColl’s oft-recorded ‘The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face’, while Michael McGoldrick does the honours on the ballad ‘The Curra Road’. Other highlights on what is a refreshingly diverse collection of tunes and songs include the funky trad of ‘Madonna’ and the closing, knees-up party tune ‘Gaffo’s Ball’. Must be a hell of a dog, that fella...