The latest releases reviewed.

GARRY SHANNON
Punctured
Claddagh Records
***
Traditional music boasts countless players who never bother to chase headlines. Clare flute player Garry Shannon (brother of both Sharon and Mary) releases his third solo collection with a distressing disdain for promotion, particularly when much of Punctured is a lithe-spirited thing of beauty. His mastery of jigs and reels is exceptional, particularly on the jig set, Tarmac, his flute fluent in the eminently bearable lightness of being that the set demands. Borrowing two tunes (including the sublime minuet Na Maithe Móra) from Michael Rooney, Shannon lets the flute breathe deep of the mood of each piece, never forcing, always following the tune to its rightful destination. The self-consciousness of the sole song (Blowing Hot Air) aside, Shannon sets the bar high and relishes surpassing it - most of the time. www.irish-flute.com