After a steady string of CDs dating back to 1992 that were influenced heavily by English and Irish folk-rock, this Austrian combo scaled back its membership and increased its songwriting responsibilities, yielding a stripped down, subdued modern folk sound. This retooled group refocused its efforts toward instrumental precision and strength of melody, an approach hinted at slightly on 1999’s WHEN I’M THERE. That release relied solely on original compositions, albeit with a rockier edge. Unfortunately, like Lack of Limits, Foggy Dew would be received much better in the US and other English speaking regions if their enunciation were sharper and cleaner. Still, if you enjoy the sounds created by accordions, mandolins and acoustic guitar there is definitely redeeming value to found here.

February 2005

Dave Sleger