Two Transatlantic titans clash on the banjo field for the second time in four years. In 2018 we had 71 minutes of BANJOPHONY, now we have the follow up with 55 minutes of BANJOPHONICS. Of course lengthy banjo instrumentals is a niche as you get on the folk circuit even if the exponents are as talented and acclaimed as Damien O'Kane and Ron Block.
For those a little partial to the mysteriously maligned twang, then sitting back to let the best pick and strum for your delight is not a bad place to be. Just when you get settled into a foot tapping groove, an earthquake appears in the form of vocals. Seven pieces into this thirteen track collection, Damien O'Kane bursts into song with the 'Endless Wanderer'. It probably doesn't define the album or knock the banjo too much out the way, but as a different dimension it works. Then out of the blue, they re-appear in 'Women of No Place'. Heady days indeed and now firmly planting the sound in conventional folk territory, for at least three minutes.
The tunes are a mixture of original compositions from both parties, although O'Kane slips in one from a fellow Irishman in Barry Kerr, with several tracks being the obligatory mash of a pair of numbers. These projects succeed in projecting the artistry of two practitioners often seen in supporting roles, albeit solo success has been aplenty. O'Kane unsurprisingly is never far from his famous wife's side, the folk royalty that is Kate Rusby. Ron Block, the US element of the duo, is known widely as a member of Union Station that propelled the career of Alison Krauss to lofty heights over a decade ago. However both make the most of their time in the spotlight to curate a hugely infectious album. They do enjoy a fine supporting cast with the mandolin of Sierra Hull and whistles from Michael McGoldrick getting a credit.
All musical appreciation is in the ears of the beholder and framed by taste. Critique can come from the trained and informed. The rest of us can tick the box of yes/no/who cares. I'm going for yes for no other reason than the banjo floats the boat and plenty of aural pleasure can be derived by letting its twang reverberate around your listening sphere. BANJOPHONICS does that when you turn the key and let Damien O'Kane and Ron Block do the rest.