Like the gentle play of light on green fields, the contemplative opening of The Tree by Belfast musician Alan Mearns summons the listener to breathe deeply and enjoy the atmosphere. Throughout this album a friendly, homey mood prevails. The original tunes are written in a traditional Irish/Celtic style except for "Prayer for Belfast", which shows off Mearns' accomplished classical guitar playing in a freeform style I hope to hear more of in the future.

Five tracks are instrumental only, and the opening number, "Billy and Lilly" sets the tone for the high calibre playing by Mearns on guitar and whistle, Melissa Alderman on fiddle, Michael Crisp on bodhran, and the vocals of Terri Williams. Beginning with guitar and fiddle, the layering in of additional instruments is effective in drawing the listener into the mood.

Equally enjoyable is "McPherson's Pride", another original tune highlighting his intricate fingerstyle guitar playing. So too, his "Prayer For Belfast" will appeal to anyone who enjoys classical guitar. Its haunting emotion reveals a deep sensitivity and musicality. The traditional "Three Jigs" move from relaxed to spirited in an easy natural fashion. Completing the excellent instrumental offerings, the final cut, "Fin" shows Mearns' considerable compositional and instrumental skills. "Fin" appears in Fingerstyle Guitar Magazine (Back Issue no. 50).

Of the remaining seven tracks with vocals, Mearns' voice is at its best in the soft dynamic range, as in the traditional Gaelic blessing, "Deep Peace." So also in "The Tree" with its worshipful vocal approach. In contrast, when the vocals reach louder levels, his voice sometimes sounds forced. In the rockier "108", reminiscent of U2's Bono, the jump to a higher register may not be to everyone's taste. However, sincere exuberance makes up for these slight imperfections and may actually add to the folk charm of the presentation, as does his Belfast accent.

The simplicity of the arrangements, fine musicianship of all the players and unpretentious lyrics create a sound rooted in the traditional music of Ireland. In keeping with the contemplative theme, the cover art in blue and white of a tree, branches and roots reaching, inspires reflection.