SUSAN McKEOWN, CATHIE RYAN and ROBIN SPIELBERG; "Mother: Songs Celebrating Mothers & Motherhood" (North Star Records). ***Today our thoughts are about our mothers, other mother figures, such as aunts, grandmothers, step-mothers, mentors, teachers, bosses -- and, of course, nature and Earth.
Three folk-contemporary instrumentalists have teamed to create a fitting tribute to the women that gave us life.
Singer-songwriter Cathie Ryan, vocalist Susan McKeown and pianist Robin Spielberg have come up with an album titled "Mother: Songs Celebrating Mothers & Motherhood," which not only praises mothers but also can be used as a tool of reconciliation.
"Unfortunately, not all our experiences with our mothers were good ones," the trio writes in the liner notes. "(This) is an album both in celebration and healing, for the mother and the child."
The album is filled with flowing arrangements that smack of Celtic lilts, classical piano and folk melodies.
McKeown's "Mother of Mine" begins the multi-faceted journey into motherhood.
The angelic and reverent "Rock Me to Sleep, Mother" is sung by Ryan.
And the dreamy piano-laden "Walk with Me," performed by Spielberg and guest cellist Jennifer Langham, was inspired by the pianist's mother's daily walks.
Ryan's take on an upbeat traditional Irish tune, "Peata Beag Do Mhathar (Mother's Little Pet)," is half in English and half in Gaelic. And McKeown follows suit, giving the darker work, "Ancient Mother," the same treatment.
There are only two selections in which all three artists appear together -- "Mother of Mine" and the festive "Mother's Celebration."
"Mother" is a good album for those who enjoy Celtic and piano music. However, there are cuts, such as "Grandma's Song," in which the mood and tone can get a little grating.
Just a final note, Spielberg became a mother for the first time during the recording of this album.