Greeley's Reel Review
Recently received my copy of Greeley’s Reel 3rd CD “Live at O’Reilly’s” and since I know a couple of da boys I thought I’d write a blog .Tony is married to a childhood friend of mine Tracy Button- Menchions and I work with Michael .
About Greeley's Reel
Since 1999, this group of musicians that have been going around playing music for the young and old, and everyone who enjoys some good old fashioned Irish Newfoundland Music. Greeley's Reel has evolved from a kitchen/basement band in Upper Island Cove, NL, to one of the most enjoyable party bands on the Avalon Peninsula. The band consists of Justin Greeley- Mandolin, Accordion, Bodhran, Vocals and also acts as General Manager & booking agent for the band------ Tom Greeley- Guitar, Vocals------- Jack Smith- Bass, Vocals------ Michael Greeley- Guitar, Vocals------ Aubrey Greeley- Fiddle, Accordion, Vocals------ Tony Menchions- Banjo, Harmonica, and Vocals------and there’s Steven Greeley – who sometimes joins the band playing Mandolin but is not a full time member.
Their first CD was released in 2005, simply called Greeley’s Reel, their second album; entitled “The Valley Road Sessions” was released in 2008. In November, 2010, the band recorded their third album, in front of a live audience at O’Reilly’s Irish Pub in St. John’s, NL. The CD was released in June, 2011, and is fast becoming the most successful to date. Greeley's Reel performed with the Ennis Sisters at The Music Industry Association Awards Gala and have shared the stage with such names as Rex Goudie, Trooper, Honeymoon Suite, Shanneyganock, The Fables, The Masterless Men, The Irish Descendants, The Celtic Connection, Dermot O'Reilly, Fergus O'Byrne, The Punters, and the list goes on. They have also become regulars at O'Reilly’s Irish Pub on George Street in St. John's, NL.
About the CD
These are just my thoughts as I listened to the CD and I encourage everyone to take a listen and judge for yourself. You won’t be disappointed. Disclaimer: I am no music expert… couldn’t even carry a tune in a wheel barrel as the old saying goes but I know what I like and I really like this CD. Also I have no connection to this band or its web site and receive no money from them. It’s my view for whatever its worth.
Track 1 -Mermaid- a tale of love between a mermaid and a mortal… a grand clever song, very catchy and well sung.
Track 2 -Barley Mow- The verses of "The Barley Mow" wish good luck to various sizes of vessels of alcoholic beverages ( English measurements), and lastly to the barley mow, one of beer's key ingredients. These are sung in descending order from largest (barrel) to smallest (round bowl).Da ‘boys do a top notch job… it’s definitely a tongue twister… Lots of Fun!
Track 3- Black Velvet Band - There are several versions of the Black Velvet Band to be found all across the world from Ireland to America and on to Newfoundland. This one is true to the original and Greeley’s Reel does a wonderful job.
Track 4- Grandpa was a Carpenter – an upbeat two step feel, hard swinging rhythm, distinctive vocal voice…Well done guys!
Track 5- The Good Ship Kangaroo-challenging but traditional shanty, Maritime music with flair. These guys are a talented bunch who can sing bloody well.
Track 6- Red Rose Café – Superb! This definitely is my favorite. Well worth listening to over and over again! Great Voice!
Track 7- Hot Asphalt- Wonderful rendition. Loved it!
Track 8- Wagon Wheel- Words can’t describe how good this is! So I won’t even try.
Track 9- Donegal Danny - about a crew of fishermen who were drowned at sea. A sad but lovely song and sung very well… very moving!
Track 10 Golden Jubilee- Another great tune!
Track 11- Black & Tans- This is real Irish stuff… sounding pretty darn good without the drink…
Track 12- Barrett’s Privateers - really feeling the music (or the drink…lol)! Nice job.
The boys really know how to make their voices grab you and make you listen. This Irish band is highly entertaining and a real crowd pleaser. Run out and get your copy today!
Also a Big shout out to the band for producing an environmentally friendly CD.
All pictures are courtesy of Greeley’s Reel.
GreaT Job! Good write up
ReplyDeleteI should have added a video.... Think I'll contact Justin and ask if that's possible..
ReplyDelete