Robin Petrie and Danny Carnahan – Continental Drift – Vinyl Record

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Robin Petrie and Danny Carnahan – Continental Drift – Vinyl Record

Continental Drift is a collaborative album by Robin Petrie and Danny Carnahan, released in 1986. The duo is well-known for their work within the Celtic and folk music traditions, and on this album, they blend various global influences, creating a unique fusion of Celtic, folk, and world music. Both musicians are respected for their instrumental skills and dedication to preserving and reimagining traditional music styles.

Robin Petrie is particularly known for her work with the hammered dulcimer, bringing a distinctive, ethereal sound to the music. Danny Carnahan is a versatile multi-instrumentalist and singer, often focusing on Celtic traditions while incorporating global musical elements.

The duet of Carnahan (octave mandolin, guitar, violin) and Petrie (hammered dulcimer) specialize in traditional Scottish and Irish music and original compositions. Continental Drift is their second album for Flying Fish, issued in 1987.

Continental Drift is characterized by its innovative blending of traditional Celtic music with influences from other world music traditions. The album features intricate instrumental arrangements, with both Petrie and Carnahan showcasing their mastery of various instruments and their ability to create layered, textured soundscapes.

Robin Petrie’s work on the hammered dulcimer gives the album a shimmering, melodic quality that is central to the sound of many tracks. Carnahan contributes a wide array of instruments, including guitar, mandolin, and violin, adding depth and variety to the arrangements. The duo’s vocal performances are intertwined with their instrumental work, providing both solo and harmonic singing that complements the delicate instrumentation.

The title Continental Drift reflects the album’s theme of crossing borders musically, bringing together Celtic roots with influences from various global traditions. While rooted in traditional music, Petrie and Carnahan bring a modern sensibility to their arrangements, reimagining folk songs in creative ways. The album is a showcase of both artists’ technical skills on their respective instruments, blending complexity with accessibility.

Continental Drift is a celebrated album in the Celtic and world music scenes, known for its innovative approach to folk music. Robin Petrie and Danny Carnahan’s collaboration demonstrates how traditional music can evolve and incorporate new influences while maintaining its core emotional and cultural resonance.

For fans of Celtic music and those who appreciate a fusion of traditional and global sounds, Continental Drift is an essential listen, offering a beautiful and intricate exploration of cross-cultural musical connections.

Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic seal

Flying Fish Records 1987

Track Listing< Flying Indian Summer Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors Black Point Dream Branle Gai/Valse des Petites Jeunes Filles Gilderoy/Coilsfield House Frana/Valse The Roses Grown Danse Anonyme/Danse Bulgare/Branle des Chevaux