Woman of the Houseby Anonymous

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October 26, 2005: Playing Time - 52:13 -- New to the Rounder Records label, Cherish the Ladies have a well-produced and highly-arranged selection of songs on “Woman of the House.” The five women in the band also enlist the support of 14 artists in various guest instrumental and vocal capacities. Thus, the project creates many moods, and we listeners are richly rewarded. Cherish the Ladies is Joanie Madden (flute, whistles, harmony vocals), Heidi Talbot (lead vocals, bodhran), Mary Coogan (guitar, banjo, mandolin), Mirella Murray (accordion) and Roisin Dillon (fiddle). To accompany the splendid music, a 16-page CD booklet includes photos, lyrics and background notes about the songs. Cherish the Ladies has been together for over twenty years, and their traditional Celtic music has built them a legion of fans. Their albums have been tightly crafted, with haunting vocals and striking instrumental accomplishment. The newest band member, Heidi Talbot has a magnetic voice that adds much to Cherish the Ladies’ signature sound. Haunting contemporary Celtic accompaniment and vocal harmonies are another. Besides sung by Joanie Madden, the noteworthy harmonies are courtesy of Kate Rusby, Eddi Reader, Donna Long and Karen Matheson (of Capercaillie). Heidi, Karen and Eddi share the vocal spotlight on the oft-sung “Fair and Tender Ladies.” Other key contributors are producer Phil Cunningham (piano, keys), Triona Ni Dhomhnaill (piano) and Donald Shaw (Wurlitzer organ). With one foot firmly planted in tradition, this band also keeps one headed in the direction of the future. These innovative and forward thinkers demonstrate a playful spirit. The great reels at track one, as well as “The Hills of New Zealand” at track six were composed by Madden. Inspiration for the latter came from the hard work and research a Kiwi man showed to return her lost digital camera. The band’s mixture of the familiar with their own creative artistry is commendable. Whether instrumental or vocal, CTL’s music conveys powerful messages of struggle, hardship, bravery, love, kindness, compassion and benevolence. That’s a real laundry list and a lot of ground to musically cover, but well-performed Celtic music creates this for me. And how better to end an album on an uplifting note of optimism than with four cheery reels. CTL’s debut on the Rounder label is a clear triumph with its striking music. CTL’s poignant presentation is truly moving. (Joe Ross, Roseburg, OR.)