Phønix 20

Phønix
20
Go’ Danish Folk Music GO 0710

Phønix were one of the first bands of the second Danish folk revival, starting life in 1990 and going through several line-ups since, with the most recent and excellent four-piece stable for several years now and producing some superb work, such as this collection’s lead-off track, the previously unlreleased Hvor Du Vender Dig. Several well-known Danish names have passed through the ranks, including fiddlers Harald Haugaard (in the very early days) and Kristine Heebøll, but two folk have anchored the group through its existence, accordionist Jesper Vinther and clarinettist/bass clarinettist Anja Præst Mikkelsen. There are several live tracks here, proof (if needed) that this is a band that can deliver the goods onstage, and with a real dynamism that’s the equal of any rock band (including obligatory percussion solo). As a primer, it’s an excellent guide to the group, who seem to be just getting into their stride after two decades.