STILL only 29, Glaswegian John McCusker has forged a formidable reputation in today's vibrant folk scene.
He gave up a place at Glasgow's prestigious Royal Academy to join the legendary Battlefield Band, left after 11 years to strike up a fruitful relationship with folk diva Kate Rusby, becoming her producer, joining her band and then getting spliced - which must make them "the Posh and Becks of folk". His latest solo album features the wife plus other folk luminaries, including Ian Carr, Andy Cutting, John Doyle and Phil Cunningham. McCusker's exuberant virtuosity on the fiddle shines out on this album, playing tunes that are fast and slow, happy and sad. Highlights include the title track, Goodnight Ginger; his poignant tribute to Davy Steele called Oor Pal Davy; and the ballad The Bold Privateer, which is sung beautifully by Rusby.
Updated: 10:10 Thursday, January 23, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article