Karan Casey.
Karan Casey: Robbie Overson, Kris Drever (guitar); Kate Ellis (cello); Cillian Vallely (pipes); Niall Vallely (concertina); Caoimhin Valley (piano); Martin O'Neill (bodhran).
Personnel: Donald Shaw (accordion, harmonium, Wurlitzer organ); Caoimhin Vallely (piano).
Audio Mixer: Paul McGeechan.
Blending traditional and modern folk influences, Karan Casey is one of the major stars of the contemporary Irish folk scene. Her fifth album, SHIPS IN THE FOREST, is her debut for a new label, Compass Records, but it remains true to the style developed on its four predecessors. Longtime artistic collaborator Donald Shaw produces Casey's regular touring combo of guitar, cello, and piano, along with a few guest vocalists, on a solid collection of originals and traditionals. Highlights include "Black is the Colour" and the warmhearted "Love Is Pleasing."