Turn is
Great Big Sea's third major label release, and the band's third one-word titled CD (following 1995's
Up and 1997's
Play). Along with the similarity of titles there is a similarity of music. This CD differs very little from the group's past releases.
Great Big Sea continues to produce energetic, rock-flavored Celtic music, almost a cross between
Spirit of the West and
Weddings, Parties, Anything. In fact, the only change noticeable on this CD is that the band seems to sound more like
Spirit of the West. Perhaps this is the influence of using
Steve Berlin as a co-producer this time around instead of
Danny Greenspoon, who was used on previous releases. One would think that
Berlin would add a rougher edge to the music; however, the opposite is true. The assistance of
the Chieftains also contributes to the well-defined Celtic sound. As usual, the traditional East Coast maritime folk songs are here -- the cover version of
"Old Brown's Daughter" using
Ron Hynes' tune instead of the traditional tune is breathtaking -- and the interpretations are always entertaining. The band also writes its own material, which differs little from other releases. Overall, the CD is good; the music is well-played and the band sounds great. The only problem is that
Great Big Sea has not grown very much over the past few years. In this sense, fans will not be disappointed, but casual listeners will have a hard time distinguishing this CD from any of the band's other releases. ~ Aaron Badgley
![The The Clash [US]](http://prodimage.images-bn.com/pimages/0074646388327_p0_v1_s90x140.jpg "The The Clash [US]")
