Christy Leahy and Caoimhín Vallely

Christy Leahy and Caoimhín Vallely, Claddagh Records***

This thoughtfully produced collection of accordion and piano follows a relaxed trajectory through its chosen repertoire, which is nothing if not eclectic, embracing everything from Sliabh Luachra jigs and barndances to French waltzes and Sligo polkas. What sets it apart is the charismatic accordion-playing of Christy Leahy, who brings a heady mix of subtlety and chutzpah to his instrument. Both he and pianist Cillian Vallely are veterans of North Cregg, and their intuitive interplay reflects the years of musical companionship with ease. At times, the bare-knuckle ride that is simply box and piano might propel the listener to search for more company, but Vallely's talent for mining unexpected seams in accompaniment breathes life into the often hackneyed art of piano playing in trad music. But it's Leahy's Panavision smile in his playing that lingers long after the final notes of the La Bourrasquewaltz. See christyleahy.com