by Greg Prato
By combining traditional Celtic music with country and a spectacular live act, Canada's Leahy drew rave reviews, and their self-titled debut is the closest you can get to the excitement of a Leahy concert. The two best tracks are undoubtedly &The Call to Dance& and &B Minor,& which both have accompanying videos as well. The former starts quiet and slow, eventually becoming a full-blown dance tune, while the latter is the album's leadoff track and serves as a fine introduction to Leahy (foot-stomping rhythms, swirling fiddles, piano flourishes, etc.). Other highlights include &Czardas,& a Hungarian dance tune that is a showcase for the talents of fiddler Donnell, and &Alabama,& which creates a wonderful, festive atmosphere. Leahy's self-titled debut is a must-have for fans of expertly crafted -- and played -- world music.