A Clear Look

Here's an interesting line-up: between them the five musicians of the Flemish band Elanor play alto and soprano electro-acoustic hurdy-gurdies, bagpipes (both uilleann and gaita), wooden flute, accordion, acoustic guitar, and electric bass. Drones, then, are prominent in the music, over which they lay melodies in intricate patterns and swirls.

I hope they play for dances because their music certainly makes you want to move. It is rooted in traditional music, yet all 14 of these instrumental tracks have been composed by members of the band. As well as the dance tunes there are more expansive pieces, such as ‘Mateke’, that conjure an atmosphere of cafés and moules frites with mayonnaise. The arrangements range in mood and pace. They are witty and generous, allowing, in a jazzy way, each instrument a moment to shine.

The variety of instruments allows intriguing contrasts, with the pipes and the wooden flute, so redolent of the West and the sea, holding down tunes such as ‘Pour Elle’ and ‘Kotor’ that sound continental and landlocked.