Waters Rising

Mark Mawby

Mark Mawby has honed his craft from many years in ceilidh bands and was a co-founder of the pipe led band 'Reed Riot.' Waters Rising is his debut and it firmly falls under the heading of solo guitar. That's not to say there isn't diversity however. Mark's assured performances take us through the ages from trad sounds sourced from all over the British Isles to modern covers and originals. He also gets a brief helping hand with some colourful pipes and percussion.

The album opens with Mark by himself on 'Peg Hugglestone's' and we're straight into familiar celtic territory. This requires precision playing and Mark is equipped with all the necessary technique. He jigs and dance's his way through 'The Newry Highwayman' and 'The Eagle's Cry' which those familiar with this genre will recognise. Nothing seems beyond Mark's reach as he dusts off and gives a stirring rendition of 'Jerusalem' full of it's regulatory pathos.

Singing is used on several numbers but there's a feeling he maybe doesn't have the same confidence with his vocal chords as he does with his fingers. Though when singing unhindered by too much studio trickery we get a heartfelt rendition of Richard Thompson's words on the 'Liege and Lief' classic 'Farewell Farewell.'

When assisted on Tess's tune, one of his own numbers he achieves some beautiful interlocking guitar patterns. On the strength of this and his other self-penned tune 'I'll Lay My Head in England' it would be interesting to hear some more originals.

Another attribute of Mark's are his waltzes which have a gorgeous lilting quality. In fact it all has such a meditative effect on Mark his breathing can be heard pulsing away in the backgroud. This can be either a help or a hindrance depending on your listening viewpoint.

These are strong renditions of some challenging material, guitar buffs and fans of celtic music will find much to enjoy here.

David Kushar