The liner notes on this CD are already out of date. James is not, as the notes read, “A two-time All-Ireland Champion on the hammered dulcimer (1986 and 1995).” He is now a three-time champion and can add 2002 to that list of dates.
The Lone Man’s Path, a collection of both traditional and original Irish music, follows Tiompan Alley, James’ first CD, released in1992. The self-described “codger about the hammered dulcimer” highlights Irish musical traditions here, playing songs composed by Turlough O’Carolan more than 400 years ago, as well as his versions of such songs as “Friend to Me,” and “Night Winds.”
Hear sample tracks and order through www.tiompanalley.com or the World Folk Music Company in Chicago or Tiompán Alley Music 916 Emerson Avenue, South Bend, IN 46615.