Kornog

Korong

Green Linnet

In Europe’s world-music scene, Kornog is legendary for its colorful musical textures and rhythms. This release does not disappoint. Formed 20 years ago, Kornog’s last recording with the original lineup was in 1987. This reunion release features the originals—minus guitarist Soig Siberil, replaced by Nicholas Quemener—from Irish trad band Arcady. With a klezmer feel on dance tunes like “Laride/Kejaj,” Kornog’s music encompasses home ground—Eastern Europe and Scotland. Jamie McMenemy is an expressive singer on his “Child Noryce,” managing the complex rhythmic changes, and equally strong on Robert Burns’ “The Braes o’ Killiecrankie.” Superb fiddler Christian Lemaitre, who toured here in the ’90s as part of the Celtic Fiddle Festival, plays beautifully throughout, especially in tandem with flautist Jean-Michel Veillon on the ravishing “Fest Stivell,” built around tunes composed by harpist Alan Stivell.