So I’m listening to Brian Hughes’ Whistle Stop now, and I’m simultaneously impressed and disappointed. I’m not sure what I think; he’s a fabulous player but there’s something missing that I can’t just put my finger on. It’s almost like the tunes need to be played with the speed knob turned down a touch and the roughness knob turned up a touch. It’s almost like it’s too clean or polished or something. It’s good, but it just doesn’t sit right for some reason.
Anyone else out there familiar with this recording agree or disagree?
That said, it is nice to hear a whistle recording that doesn’t sound like it was recorded inside a racquetball court.
Hey Rich, I think I get what you mean. But I’m not sure. I’ve owned “Whistle Stop” for about a year now but I don’t think I’ve listened to it enough to review it properly.
I don’t know exactly what is it but the accompaniments/arrangements don’t really appeal to me that much. Also I do get whistle-fatigue after a while because all his whistles sound relatively the same pitch, and same timbre (sweet, a little airy, light).
However, I think its hard to fault Brian Hughes in terms of technique. His playing sounds fairly similiar to Her Worship, Mary Bergin’s. Mary Bergin’s CDs are a little more trad sounding and less “polished” (in a good way). And for roughness, how much more rough can you get for playing Generation whistles?
I have a different point of view on this one Rich. It seems funny to me that someone should be criticised for being “too clean or polished”. This is a matter of personal taste I suppose. I’m not one who believes that traditional musicians should be a bit rough around the edges to be “authentic” and satisfying to listen to. Personally, I think Brian Hughes’ playing is wonderful and his CD, Whistle Stop, would be one of the last CD’s I would part with if I was having a CD “cleanout”. I only wish I could play like Brian; I’m sure I will never reach that level of mastery, but if I have aspirations to play like anyone, Brian Hughes is at the top of the list. Having said that, I don’t want to play like anyone else; I want to play like me - only a much better me!
I agree with Rich. Nobody could dispute BH’s skill, but his music doesn’t do much for me. There’s something glib and facile about it. Plus his overuse of sliding makes me feel seasick.
