by Matt FinkHailing from Dayton, OH, Fannigans Isle uses the Irish pub music of the Clancy Brothers and the high-spirited American folk music of the Kingston Trio as a springboard for their own unique blend of traditional folk forms. Comprised of Rick Fannin and Tom Scheidt, both having spent stints in rock bands in the 60s, the two came to a mutual respect of each others talents and formed Fannigans Isle in 1984 under the idea of recreating the music of their aforementioned heroes. The duo quickly gained a reputation for high-spirited live shows and garnered accolades for their accomplished performances on a wide array of folk instruments. By the late 90s, Fannigans Isle was a favorite on the folk festival, college, and pub circuit, as they had released two well-received collections on Folk Era records. The double set, Orange & Green, split between one disc of live tracks and one of studio recordings, provides an excellent introduction to their music.