Growing up in an artistic family in the French quarter of Quebec, the McGarrigle sisters absorbed some unusual influences, from French- Canadian folk song to Gershwin and Piaf. They originally become known as songwriters; Anna’s Heart Like A Wheel was made famous by Linda Ronstandt, Kate’s The Work Song by Maria Mulduar, but they didn’t record themselves until 1976. This three-disc set comprises their self-titled debut, 1977’s follow-up, Dancer With Bruised Knees, and a pleasing collection of previously unreleased songs and demos from 1971-74.
On release, their debut was an absolute breath of fresh air: an enchanting mix of happy/sad songs, simply enough recorded to avoid undue sentimentality. The girls’ distinct voices also meshed perfectly, delivering delightful harmonies that were neither sweet nor cloying. The album was rightfully praised to the skies but impossible to follow. Dancer With Bruised Knees comes second by some distance, despite compelling new songs and two traditional French pieces, but nothing quite matched the emotional impact of the first album’s Heart Like A Wheel, My Town and (Talk To Me Of) Mendocino.
The wheel has turned and the McGarrigles are, once again, in tune with the times, gathering momentum since Kate’s death last year and boosted by the success of her children, Martha and Rufus Wainwright. A timely, deliciously desirable release.
