For A Song
Maria's second recording, For a Song, received a 2002 Juno Award Nomination in the Roots/Traditional Solo category. Produced by Shannon Johnson, For A Song features 11 of Maria’s original songs and one traditional Newfoundland song. Musical support was provided by an impressive cast: Canadian Celtic group The McDades, Shannon Johnson (violin), Craig Korth (banjo, guitar, dobro), and with guest appearances by bluegrass band Jerusalem Ridge, Con O’Brien from the Irish Descendants (backing vocals), and Lester Quitzau (dobro). The songs range from The Lingan Strike, a rousing tale from Cape Breton’s labour history, to Take it Easy on Me, a gentle anthem for contemporary society.
Reviews:
Rich Warren, Midnight Special/Folkstage, WFMT, Chicago, Favourite Recordings of 2001
Maria Dunn scores twice in a row with this second CD, a noble feat for a newcomer. Her songs explore people and places in illuminating and highly poetic detail, sung with conviction.
David Francey (Singer and Songwriter):
This CD staked it's claim our CD player for an extended time, and was thoroughly enjoyed by all. The CD captures Maria at her best, the songwriting is superb and the performance immediate and strong. Its an excellent body of work, and a pleasure to listen too.
Roddy Campbell, Penguin Eggs Magazine:
An immensely satisfying disc, this, full of optimism and substance
Peter North, Edmonton Journal:
...A finely crafted work that shows Dunn off as an artist who knows her strengths and is comfortable with both her material and a strong supporting cast.
Kirby, SEE Magazine:
The timeless quality of music like Dunn's forever has a place in people's hearts.
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Good News – Radio & Print!
"Maggie Thompson" published in Sing Out! (Spring 2002 Issue)
#3 in Penguin Eggs Albums of 2001 Critics' Poll (Spring 2002 Issue)
#3 of Galaxie's 10 Best Folk Roots CDs (Apr./02)
#1 CKUA (Nov. 12-25/01)
#6 CHRW, London, ON (Dec. 1/01)
Top 10, CJSW Folkcetera (Oct. 29/01)