Soon, folk from the community and visiting musicians became influences as well. Listening to radio programs and hearing other performers expanded their repertoire. The 21 tracks present a thorough historical anthology of New Brunswick music. Led by Gerry, the brothers perform tunes that date to earlier this century, presenting numerous fiddle tunes associated with the region. Often playing in the older, more sedate style favored by fiddlers like his mother, Gerry shows tremendous dexterity in his bowing technique.
Syncopation enhances the dancing qualities of the music as well.
Bobby's guitar style acts as a perfect foil for the melody lines, and provides the right accompaniment for dancers. Solid and steady, he reaches into the beat at the start of new phrases, driving the music along. He is almost metronomic, but never mechanical in providing a foundation for the music. Many of the tunes appear to be exclusive to the French communities of New Brunswick, while others are also standard throughout older Northumbrian, Scottish and other area repertoires. Copyright 1999, Peterborough Folk Music Society .