CLARELYNN ROSE

The Redwood Sidthe

Heartwood Music (2000)

review by Bill Binkelman

In the liner notes to her CD, The Redwood Sidthe, Clarelynn Rose (Rose is her performing name - her real last name is Nunamaker) offers thanks to guitar maestros John Renbourn and Alex de Grassi. Acknowledging those two world class musicians is an indication of what awaits the lover of acoustic guitar instrumental music on this fine recording. Clarelynn combines adroit technique, soulful playing, and a varied composing style in the twelve pieces that comprise the album. Drawing on subtle Celtic, folk and contemplative influences, her music can alternately dazzle, invigorate or calm you down. All in all, this is a first rate acoustic music release.

I rarely include a lot of background or press kit info in my reviews, but in the case of Clarelynn, I'm going to make an exception. Seldom do the music and its inspiration so accurately reflect not just the soul of an artist but also the person themselves. With songs entitled "Rain Forest Rain," "Redwood Dawn," and "Lake Oswego Moon," you would be correct in assuming Clarelynn is a nature lover; but, she's also a registered forester by trade. Here is someone who not only talks the talk but walks the walk. In fact, she donates $1.00 from the sale of every CD to a fund for two educational programs, the Redwood Valley Outdoor Education project and the Forestry Institute for Teachers. Outstanding! What a wonderful effort on the part of one person to increase awareness and concern for our environment!

Of course, this nobility of purpose would not be well-served if the music did not inspire people to buy the album. Have no fear in that regard. As a testament to the likability of Clarelynn's music, I have played the CD five times in just two days. Admittedly, I'm a big fan of acoustic guitar music, but I particularly enjoy the variety of moods, tempos, and styles on The Redwood Sidthe. This assortment of songs makes the CD fit in comfortably nearly any time in my day or early evening listening. Since a fair number of the selections are either slightly or wholly uptempo, I don't think this is a good fit for late-night playing, but it's not meant to be, I don't think. It's too sunny, at times - which is what I like about it, to tell you the truth.

The album's Celtic influences are mostly heard on the first two tracks, the haunting title song (Sidthe, by the way, is a Gaelic word referring to the fairy folk and the realm they inhabit) and the sprightly "Across the Pond." Next on the recording, "Miles" is a spirited and fun but still somewhat laid-back ballad (named, believe it or not, for one of Alex de Grassi's dogs, whom Clarelynn once took for a walk). Other cuts on the CD include "Bai Ma (White Horse)" which showcases Clarelynn's fleet-fingered way with the strings and fretboard, the beautiful but somewhat somber "Rain Forest Rain," the cheery and midtempo "Lake Oswego Moon," and the unusual "Amitabha (Buddha)" which is based on a Buddhist melody. The album concludes with "Offering," a slow-paced tune that evokes the feeling of a leisurely stroll through the coastal forests, marveling at their beauty while immersing oneself in the solitude of such ancient timber. It's a lovely closing number.

The songs on this CD are neither Ackerman-like tone poems or quasi-Hedges' excursions into tuning and percussive experimentalism. They're also not pop-ish, overtly commercial, or sing-songy. Instead, the tracks on this outstanding album are immediately accessible, warm and inviting, yet they're also richly layered with some intricate fingerwork and a strong sense of melody and rhythm. Please permit me to comment on the emotional reaction I had to the album as well. It may sound trite or cliché or too much like a "Hallmark moment," but playing Clarelynn's CD made me wish I could find myself sitting on my back porch with her, sharing a cup of coffee or glass of wine, watching a flock of midwestern geese fly overhead, as autumn comes alive in the crisp afternoon air. Translation: The Redwood Sidthe is a sincere, honest, and heartfelt album. While I don't know Clarelynn personally, I have to believe that the music reflects her personality. So, when you're in need of good company, play this CD and you'll doubtless feel better. I know I will. And when the leaves turn red-gold and tumble from my backyard's oak, I'll turn west to the Pacific (over a thousand miles away) and salute Clarelynn for both her artistry and her humanity. Buy this album! You'll be glad you did.