Reviewed by Ruth Saint

Cele De formed in San Jose, California in March 2003 and released an album of Celtic music entitled 'Mist On The Mountain'. With this, their latest EP released in July 2005, the group claim to have evolved since then with their own genre of "neo-Celtic music." If you like your Celtic music to sound very Irish/Scottish you may be a little disappointed, but if you are open to music having a variation on a theme then you will enjoy Cele De. The tunes have quite a Spanish feel at times, particularly on "Hillenvale". However, the first track "Awakening" as it opens with a flute, followed by drums and violin, is clearly toe tapping, Celtic stuff. The music feels like it is leading up to something and I immediately have visions of Riverdance ladies entering stage right! The second track, "Through It All" is a delight and the only track with lyrics; the other four being instrumental pieces. With shades of Caedmon's Call, the lyrics are worshipful, with a catchy chorus and upbeat music. You can hear every word clearly, which is a plus because it's the type of song you could soon find yourself singing along to and there are no lyrics on the CD sleeve. "Song Of The Selkie" is a haunting and slower piece introduced by the flute. The dreamy nature of this track is enhanced if you know the Celtic legend of the selkies (Orcadian for 'seal'). They frequent the islands of Orkney and legend has it that they are 'shape shifters' with the ability to transform from seals into beautiful men and women who enchant the locals and dance on moonlit shores but if they lose their seal skins they must remain human. The last track, "Second Hand" is recorded live. An enjoyable EP and a taste of what we can expect in their forthcoming full length album due in March 2006.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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