erinmaiden has the right of it. I am reminded of a local "celtic" band that wants to take the next step. I was talking to the leader, who plays rhythm. I was trying to get him to understand that the problem he is having is that he doesn't understand that it is the rhythm that makes our music unique. He was looking at every part of his band except himself. He was just playing rock 'n roll, or folk rhythms, when the thing that makes Irish music distinct, aside from instrumentation, is the percussive "in the gap" style that we play. He is still struggling along, playing the same stuff you can hear on most "folk rock" style of music.

The rhythms developed by our modern players, when done appropriately, have added a dimension to this exciting music that takes it to the next level. The same can be said of the bodhran. Done properly, and in support of the tune, makes this an exciting musical form.   But it must be done to enhance the tune, not to stand out.

Mick