Description

Malcolm Dalglish and Grey Larsen – Thunderhead – Vinyl Record

Thunderhead is an album by Malcolm Dalglish and Grey Larsen, two accomplished musicians known for their expertise in traditional folk music and innovative compositions. Released in 1983, this album is a remarkable blend of Celtic, Appalachian, and contemporary folk music, showcasing the duo’s exceptional musicianship and deep understanding of these genres.

Malcolm Dalglish is renowned for his mastery of the hammered dulcimer, while Grey Larsen is celebrated for his skills on the flute, tin whistle, concertina, and other instruments. Together, they create a rich tapestry of sound that is both intricate and deeply melodic.

Music has remained an evolving art form for Indiana-born hammered dulcimer player, composer, and choral director Malcolm Dalglish. Nearly half a century since he made his stage debut at the age of ten, he continues to find new outlets for his musical vision. While his early recordings reflected roots in Irish music, he’s continued to branch out. His latest projects include two albums: Pleasure and Hymnody of Earth were recorded with the Ooolites, a choral group with singers ranging in age from 12 to their early twenties that he formed in 1997, and frame drummer Glen Velez.

Thunderhead features a mix of traditional tunes and original compositions, each track highlighting the interplay between Dalglish’s hammered dulcimer and Larsen’s various wind instruments. The album’s arrangements are both complex and accessible, drawing listeners into a world of vibrant acoustic textures and evocative melodies.

Key tracks on the album include ‘Thunderhead,’ the title track, which showcases the duo’s ability to blend rhythmic drive with melodic beauty, creating an immersive listening experience. ‘v’ is another standout, offering a meditative and cyclical composition that reflects the passage of time and the changing seasons.

Other notable tracks include ‘Springwater At Jerry’s Run,’ a lively reel that highlights the duo’s technical prowess and energetic performance, and ‘Booth Shot Lincoln/Haning’s Farewell,’ a traditional Irish tune that demonstrates their deep connection to Celtic music traditions.

The production on Thunderhead is clear and precise, allowing the nuances of each instrument to shine through. The album captures the live, acoustic essence of Dalglish and Larsen’s performances, making it a compelling listen for fans of folk and traditional music.

Thunderhead received praise for its innovative approach to folk music and the exceptional talents of both musicians. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional music when performed with skill, passion, and creativity.

For those who appreciate the beauty and complexity of acoustic folk music, Thunderhead by Malcolm Dalglish and Grey Larsen offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album is a celebration of traditional musical forms and the expressive potential of acoustic instruments, making it a standout release in the folk music genre.

Flying Fish Records FF 266 1982

Track Listing
Boys Of Ballisodare/Stolen Apples
Air Born
Booth Shot Lincoln/Haning’s Farewell
La Valse Pour Les Petites Juenes Filles (The Waltz for the Little Girls)
Five Bourees/La Berceuse De Muffe (The Lullaby of Muffe)
Briar Picker Brown/Highlander’s Farewell
The Stormy Night/Glen Helen
Springwater At Jerry’s Run
The Heather Breeze/Michael Kennedy’s Reel
Morning/Boland’s Favorite/Cat In The Hopper/St. Basil’s Hymn
Thunderhead