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If you expect a seasoned fisherman to be rough, raucous and coarse then think again as none of those attributes are evident on this CD. We have here someone with a calm strength, deep feelings for his family and a willingness to open himself up through song. The overall feel is gentle and contemplative.
I’m surprised to learn that he only started writing in 2001, at the age of 47. There’s certainly more craft in these songs than this might suggest. Although described as a shy person, his lyrics portray the inner workings of both the sea farer and the family man. He writes and sings about what he knows. I’ve never met him, but after a few plays of the CD I feel I am getting to know him and very much liking what I hear.
The CD opens up with one of my favourite tracks "fisherman’s Soul", the story of the old Newfoundland fishery where people worked hard salting cod but ended up being relocated from their homes. This track, along with a couple of others, is available to listen to on Mike’s web site at www.mikemartellmusic.ca/ . This also gives a link to his Sonicbids web site where you can hear a couple more songs and get a bit more background to Mike and his songs. Whilst I might hear resonances with Dan McKinnon and perhaps Archie Fisher, I’d urge the reader to go to Mike’s web site to learn more about him, give him a listen and, if suitably tempted, order the CD.
A couple of other songs that stand out for me are "Klondike Gold" and "When we Meet Again". The latter is a particularly moving reminiscence of his parents which, although personal to Mike, is one that many of us will be able to associate with. The CD might be considered pleasant background music, but you are really missing out at this level. The words are clearly sung, but you need to give it your full attention to absorb the feel and the meaning of the songs. The lyrics are all included in the booklet that comes with the CD, although Mike’s rendition brings more out of them than is on the printed page.
Overall it’s a very pleasant CD which rewards the attention given. It would perhaps have benefitted from a couple of more direct, up tempo songs to add variation. More information about the background to the songs would have been welcome, although there are a few snippets available on the web sites.
For me, this music belongs late at night shared amongst family and friends over a quiet drink. It’s gentle and it’s intimate. I don’t know the Martells but I’m left feeling they’ll provide a welcome to anyone joining them for such a session. It’s a long way, but a trip over to PEI is sounding attractive especially if there’s a fish supper as well.