Mandolirium, Unstrung Heroes (Self-released, 2000)

This lively, quirky, and very talented quintet revolves around the mandolin, if you have not figured that out already. Mandolirium is an idea that Russ Godfrey (lead vocals, mandolin, octave mandolin, guitar, bodhran, various percussion, and instrument acquisition disorder) originally proposed to Rick Van Krugel (mandolins, banjo mandolin, seedpod "twanger," tenor guitar, frog, background vocals, musical disorder), both of whom share a penchant for the mandolin. The two broached the idea to Mike Brooks (mandolins, octave mandolin, strumstick, musical order), who also suffers this predilection. Realizing that mandolins would not make it alone, they invited in Mike Nicholls (drums, percussion, background vocals, Keeper of the Groove) and Dave Klassen (upright bass, acoustic bass, background vocals, old records, unpernicity). The members of this group are extremely versatile and have proven that the mandolin can be so as well. As well as being great musicians, they have a strong sense of humour which shows through on the liner notes. Most of these songs on this CD are traditional, originating from all around the world, plus there is also one original included. In all, Unstrung Heroes is a 51-minute escape to exotic places.

The opening strains of "Misirlou" (written by Nicholas Roubanis) bring the desert to mind without any effort at all. The vocals are clear and smooth as silk, making this a very enjoyable rendition of this old song. "Moscow Nights" by Vasili Solovyev-Sedoy, and the traditional Irish tune "The Rights of Man" comprise a medley performed with raw feeling, fingers dancing rapidly on the strings. The second half will easily tempt you to get up and dance. The next track, consisting of Jerry Lordan's "Apache" and Stan Jones' "Ghost Riders in the Sky," is a musical combination that I had never thought I would hear. It brings a smile to my face every time I listen to it (the very first time I giggled at the audacity, or perhaps the originality)... The mandolin is a wonderful instrument for both, the notes "ghosting" through the air. The traditional old-time "Campbell's Farewell to Red Gap/June Apple/Salt Creek" medley has the toes tapping as it rolls along at a steady pace, blending together like they all belonged. This is followed by another medley consisting of "Harapj Meg Engem" (written by Mike Brooks), "Fisztoria," and David Grisman's "Fulginiti." According to the liner notes, "Harapj Meg Engem" is a naughty Hungarian phrase. They won't translate it for us, so you need to know Hungarian, or someone who does. The latter two songs are from the movie King of the Gypsies and dedicated to Pete Stevens, "the Gypsy King." Next comes a very stirring rendition of "Jezebel" (by Wayne Shanklin), with a heavier Spanish flavour than would normally be found. The mandolin actually seems to tease the bass, flirting unmercifully, then darting away, only to return. The version of "Arpad's Guz," a traditional Hungarian tune, that Mandolirium does was actually inspired by Boiled in Lead. As the cover notes state it is "a zany tune to suit zany instruments: strumstick, Seedpod twanger, bottle of enraged bees." It is very lively, and again has the feet moving without conscious thought. Marin Rafael Hernandez's "El Cumbanchero" combined with the traditional piece "Julia Delaney" is a medley which draws heavily on a Latino flavour. It goes from fast and frivolous to solemn and back again. The final track is entitled "For Those Who Like to Rock." This title may be very deceiving to those unacquainted with the child's television show The Friendly Giant. A rocking chair was set aside each day on the show: for those who liked to rock. Unfortunately, Bob Homme, who played the Friendly Giant for many years, passed away. The group has kindly dedicated this song to him. As the cover notes state: "In loving memory of Bob Homme, The Friendly Giant, who in the Spring of Y2K went way, way, way up. Thanks for the memories ... You will be missed."

All in all, this CD is a wonderful romp through some new territory. And I would have to seriously suggest giving it a good listen, it will brighten even the darkest mood.

[Naomi de Bruyn, GREEN MAN REVIEW]

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