"In the two years since their first album, Emerald Rose has grown considerably, as composers of new material, as vocalists, and as performers. Bending Tradition showcases the band's blossoming musicianship. Songs like "Penny in the Well" and "Pagan Girl" have an infectious, almost pop feel to them, while "Johnnie Cope" and "Red-Haired Mary" confirm Emerald Rose's reputation as a good-times Celtic band. Larry Morris's jigs (including the cryptically named "The Ferret's Nose") sound like they could have been lifted straight out of the folk tradition. But the most luminous gem on this CD is "Freya Shakti", a Goddess chant that deserves to take its place alongside Deena Metzger's "Isis Astarte" chant as a recognizable Pagan standard. To this reviewer, the boys in Emerald Rose haven't just bent tradition -- they've contributed to it."
Wonderful, High-Energy Band of Celtic Shamans
Carl McColman | 08/06/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I highly recommend this second collection from Emerald Rose. It mixes energetic renditions of traditional Celtic songs (Johnny Cope, Red-Haired Mary) with folky, poetic ballads (Penny in the Well, Hills of America) and even some satiric pop (Pagan Girl). But the best tracks are the haunting, mythically-inspired 'Castle of Arianrhod' and the driving, oracular spirit songs--'Freya Shakti' and 'Fire in the Head.' The spine shivers; the heart weeps. Oooh, that's good."
Emerald Rose Rules!
Todd D. Laughlin | Ogallala, NE USA | 01/05/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"If you're on a pagan path, this album will rock your world! I love the imagery of "Merry May Folk", it's a Beltaine romp that grabs your spirits and throws them skyward! Try raising Power while singing along with "Freya Shakti", dare you to sit still. "Pagan Girl" is absolutely my most favorite song on this CD, it reminds me of my previous relationships and meeting my wife. "Fire in the Head" called to my Druidic nature. Pagans everywhere; Rejoice! Emerald Rose RULES!!"
Hard to keep
Stephanie Lynch | Denver, CO | 05/16/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Here is a hint. DO NOT LOAN THIS CD TO ANYONE. Even your trusted friends will turn on you and growl viciously if you suggest it is time for the CD to come back to you. Happened to me just last night. So off I went to the band's website to buy another copy. Dang it. But I did buy the full set of all four. I've had the sheer pleasure of hearing this group perform in public. It was my first time to hear the "Shakti" piece. Everyone in the auditorium was on their feet dancing. It is a chant to overcome the dirge-like chants so many of us know.Their traditional pieces are incredibly well done. The penny whistle rivals the best work I've ever heard. And the original songs such as "Pagan Girl" will bring a smile to your face or a tear to your eye.These guys are true bards in the oldest sense of the word. Don't let this CD escape your notice. Truly some of the best new music I've heard in a long while."
An Inspired sequel for a great band!
Lili P. | AL United States | 04/12/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"What can one say about a band that is so in touch musically and spiritually with the Celtic? Fire In The Head is about Celtic Shamanism, bringing to bear many familiar images with a fast pace. Jigs:Green Hills of Garland/The Gallagher Lass/The Ferret's Nose is especially fun, with Larry's whistle bouncing melodically. The haunting Castle of Arianrhod shows a knowledge of Taliesin and an understanding of Celtic spirituality. Freya Shakti is my favorite Emerald Rose song, praising and invoking the Goddess in her many forms. There isn't a bad song on the whole CD. I would give this CD ten stars if Amazon allowed it!"