Each Little Thing

The follow-up to 1994's Out the Gap, Each Little Thing is full of pleasant surprises at every turn. After playing a predominently traditional Irish-based accordion with Arcady, the Waterboys and on her solo debut, Sharon Shannon displays her diverse and esoteric nature on several instances. "Kids" is a bouncy piece featuring fine playing by guitarist Steeve Cooney, which cleverly segues into Fleetwood Mac's "Never Going Back Again." Emanating from "Bonnie Mulligan" is an Aaron Copland vibe, where Winnie Horan (Solas) leads the hoedown with some commanding fiddle playing. The underlying electric guitar adds interesting layering. "The Bag of Cats" brandishes a heavy programmed rhythm by Oisin Lunny, and Shannon lays down her box in favor of the fiddle to duel it out with Mary Custy. Chanteuse Kirsty MacColl renders a seductive reading of "Libertango" as Shannon assumes the role of strolling French accordionist with aplomb and savoir faire. "El Mercado Testaccio" is a delightful Inti-Illimani tune that, despite the hammer dulcimer and bouzouki, sounds amazingly South American. Donal Lunny does an excellent job of piecing this album together, allowing the songs to flow gracefully. His bouzouki playing and Trevor Hutchinson's double bass provide a stable rhythm section capable of chauffeuring Shannon to whichever destination she fancies. ~ Dave Sleger|