Celtic MP3s Music Magazine

Review: "Traveling Man" by The McKrells

2009-11-21T15:00:00.000-06:00

Artist: The McKrells

Album: Traveling Man
Year produced: 2008

The McKrells are legends in Upstate New York, as well as being highly respected internationally in the Celtic music scene. The band created a hybrid of Celtic and bluegrass sounds that earned them the appreciation of every crowd they played in, whether in a small pub in Ireland, their home base of The Parting Glass in Saratoga Springs, NY or even Carnegie Hall. The last few years have seen major changes in personnel and sound, but the heart of The McKrells; Kevin McKrell’s songwriting and voice, remains. Their latest CD, Traveling Man, was released in 2008 on Thorntree Music. It’s a change for longtime fans, but not necessarily an unwelcome one.

Traveling Man opens with the title track, a light and airy bit of Celtic influenced pop that will get your feet moving. This leads into the Bold Fenian Men, offered here as a low-key Celtic rocker. Kevin McKrell is in fine voice here, and harmonies from daughter Kate McKrell complete the aesthetic. McKrell offers up a primo performance on Shores Of America. Kevin McKrell’s voice has an iconic quality to it that is unforgettable, and Shores is the perfect opportunity to hear why.

Christmas Day is performed in the style of classic American Folk music by Kevin McKrell on guitar and vocals with harmonies from daughter Kate McKrell. It is a hopeful tune that strives for light at Christmas in darker times and is quite apropos amidst current events. One of two personal favorites on the disc is Two Peas In A Pod, a wonderful “silly little love song” that you’ll have on continuous replay. It’s a cute little mix-tape candidate that’s highly infectious and unforgettable. McKrell works in a glory days song on Ronnie’s Golden Mustang; if you’re a child of the late 1960’s or early 1970’s then this song will hit home (particularly with the Creedence Clearwater Revival, Grand Funk Railroad, John Lennon/Yoko and Lynyrd Skynyrd references), but every generation expresses these sentiments sooner or later.

My other personal favorite is The Motel de Marquis Lafayette. With clear roots in the Celtic and American Folk traditions, this is a virally infectious tune that will get stuck in your head for days, perhaps weeks. Traveling Man closes out with Tunnel Tigers in a bit of Celtic Funk/Rock (listen to the bass) that’s highly enjoyable.

There’s no doubt there’s been a big change in the sound of The McKrells. The strong Bluegrass element of their sound has departed, but it has turned the remaining McKrells back to their Celtic roots. The resultant CD, Traveling Man, is refreshing and immensely enjoyable album. As a writer and arranger, they don’t get much more talented than Kevin McKrell, and the rest of the band is top notch. Do yourself a favor and put this at the top of your listening list for St. Patrick’s Day. You won’t be disappointed.

Wildy Haskell is a lifelong music enthusiast and performer. He writes and edits Wildy's World, a music blog focusing on reviews of independent and up-and-coming artists. He has also written for ReviewYou.com and Marc Gunn's Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. You can reach him at wildysworld@gmail.com.

Published by Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. Don't just download. Support your favorite Celtic music groups. Buy Celtic music CDs. Join Song Henge.

Review: "Green Energy" by The Irish Experience

2009-11-20T14:56:00.000-06:00

Artist: The Irish Experience
Album: Green Energy
Year produced: 2009

Seattle’s The Irish Experience releases their sophomore CD on March 17, 2009, Green Energy. Picking up where they last left off, The Irish Experience brings high energy instrumental Celtic music with a Rock N Roll feel and the occasional Appalachian folk underpinning. Electric violin, guitar, congas, bongos, harmonica, synth and djembe as the weapons of choice here, and you’ll quickly be consumed in the passion and energy The Irish Experience pumps into their music. Even the slower songs have a vibrant life you just won’t be able to ignore.

Green Energy opens with The Wicked Jig, a violin led opus over rhythmic guitar and some of the funkiest bass playing west of Chicago. Try to stand still while this one is playing; you can’t. Brendan McGlinchey’s is a wonderfully dark interpretation you can’t help get a little lost in. Dinny Delaney’s Slide may be the best track here. The violin and bass dance around one another while guitar and percussion steady the floor. John Brown’s Dream brings out a little of the Appalachian feel as The Irish Experience borders on a Celtic Bluegrass sound (banjo would complete the effect). Paddy Fahey’s is more of a rock tune than anything else here with an almost Mike Scott/Waterboys feel to it. Other highlights include Within A Mile Of Dublin, Indian Point, Scatter The Mud and The Fiddler’s Lament.

The Irish Experience delivers irrepressible Green Energy on their CD, but anything you read about them indicates the real thrill is their live shows. Green Energy is an accomplished instrumental disc that’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or anytime you want to get back to your real or adopted Irish roots. This is a great listen.

Review: "Spirituality: 1983 – 2008" by Spirit of the West

2009-11-18T14:53:00.000-06:00

Artist: Spirit Of The West
Album: Spirituality: 1983 – 2008
Year produced: 2008

Spirit Of The West celebrated their 25th year in 2008 with the release of Spirituality: 1983-2008, a 2-CD collection of some of their best material from across the years with two new songs thrown in for good measure. Spirit Of The West has traversed Canada many times over the years, and to a lesser degree the United States and Europe. Starting out as a Celtic folk group, the sound has evolved over twenty-five years into a more refined pop/rock/Celtic blend, but Spirit Of The West never forgot their roots. Where you are a long-time fan of Spirit Of The West, a passing acquaintance, or even if you’ve never heard of them before, Spirituality offers much to enjoy and needs to be on your “get” list.

For the fans of Celtic and Scot songs, Spirit Of The West brings much from their glorious past to Spirituality. Doin’ Quite Alright, The Crawl, The Old Sod and Home For A Rest all fit the bill quite nicely. Home For A Rest has been consistently ranked by Canadian music fans as one of the top Canadian New Rock songs of all time. Of course, Spirit Of The West had a distinct social conscience in their music as well. Political, their first real hit, is an amazing song about the imbalance in a relationship caused by an insecure or controlling partner. Long time fans will be happy to know that the original version of Political (from Labour Day) is offered here. (Putting Up With) The Joneses is a tongue in cheek look at the sort of damage socioeconomic elitism can lead to; even touching on the social taboo of Eugenics.

Spirit Of The West happens to have written one of the most amazing songs I’ve ever heard, and it’s included here. Take It From The Source takes on bigotry and hatred with a velvet glove lined with iron. The pen is mightier than the sword by far in this moving and powerful personal answer to one of the darker elements of human nature. Take It From The Source, like Spirit Of The West themselves, should be a lot better known than it is.

You can hear the progression from Celtic folk group to rock band occurring throughout Disc One of Spirituality, with Save This House being the first sign that something’s afoot. By the time we get to songs like Goodbye Grace, D Is For Democracy (Scour The House) and Big Head, Spirit Of The West have achieved a true pop rock sound while still heavily influenced by their Celtic roots. Disc Two completes the transition, with five tracks from the Michael Philip Wojewoda produced Faithlift (And If Venice Is Sinking; Sadness Grows; Bone Of Contention; Death On The Beach and Is This Where I Come In). Faithlift was Spirit Of The West’s best selling album with a fair amount of cross-exposure on soundtracks, TV, etc. The instrumentation and arrangements still suggest their roots, but the production values are the pure pop genius Wojewoda has long been capable of.

Unplugged continues the run of social commentary in an upbeat song about Euthanasia and the right to die. Delivered with a wry smile, Unplugged has deep philosophical roots in the right of individuals to determine their own fate. Wishing Line and Our Ambassador find Spirit Of The West at the nadir of their pop/rock sound, almost wholly distinct from where they started out. The album was Weights and Measures, and while offering up songs wholly in the rock realm, Spirit Of The West offered distinct nods to the “old” sound with Canadian Skye and Rites Of Man.

Spirituality also features two brand new tracks, the moody Winter’s Now The Enemy and the raucous Another Happy New Year. The two tracks reflect the two musical aspects of Spirit Of The West wonderfully well. You’ll find yourself wrapped up in the tension and beauty of the former and wanting to dance to latter (preferably with some Guinness or some grog).

Spirit Of The West has built a vibrant and varied catalog over the last quarter century. Too prolific and profound to ignore, the band continues to be a hit at live shows across Canada. The days of endless touring long behind them, Spirit Of The West are content continuing to make great music their way; in their own time and fashion. They still tour, and will commence a tour of Eastern Canada with Great Big Sea on March 11, 2009. While Spirit Of The West was a major label act at one time, they have always carried themselves with an Indie Spirit, and their music is a testament to that. Spirituality is a collection of some of their best moments, but there is much good material not represented. (Noticeably absent is anything from their fine album Open Heart Symphony, as well as my personal favorite song from Faithlift, Sincerely Yours), but a collection of this sort should inspire you to look (and listen) deeper; leaving some nuggets behind for the ardent listener to be rewarded with. With all that’s here, Spirituality can be nothing other than a Wildy’s World Certified Desert Island Disc. It’s an absolute must-have.

Review: "Secrets Of The Day" by The Killdares

2009-11-17T17:02:00.000-06:00

Artist: The Killdares
Album: Secrets Of The Day
Year produced: 2009

The Killdares aren't quite like anyone you've heard. You like Celtic music? check. You like a big rock sound? check. Grand master violin playing? check. Screaming bagpipes? check. Wailing electric guitar? check. A lead singer on drums? Got that too. The Dallas based quintet sets hearts and minds atwitter with their mind blowing mix of sounds and styles both in the studio and on stage. Traditional Celtic fans even fall in line for a Killdares show. On their fifth independent release, Secrets Of The Day, The Killdares even add a dark electronic element to their sound. It's an expansion on rather than a deviation from their sound. Prepare to be blown away.

The Killdares mix of Celtic and Rock is unusual but not unique. Several bands have done so over the years, most notably The Pogues, who mixed Celtic and Punk quite nicely. Other fine examples include Captain Tractor, Spirit Of The West, Great Big Sea and Seven Nations. If you enjoy any of these groups then there's a strong likelihood you'll love the Killdares. Rip-roaring bagpipes, searing violin and the strong vocals of Tim Smith make everything the Killdares touch turn to gold. Secrets Of The Day opens with Seasons, a strong, steady rocker with a memorable melody and great hooks. Closer Than You Know brings a big guitar sound and a delicious duet between pipes (Matt Willis) and violin (Roberta Rast). This song will get you moving in a big way and is likely to be a big time concert favorite.

Hold My Heart is a rock ballad with Celtic heritage and crunchy guitars. The Killdares just have this knack for creating very catchy arrangements that make you want to get up and dance. Long Island High is a must for jig fans. Irish jigs to a Rock N Roll beat -- need I say more? Be sure to check out Disappear, one of the more introspective and beautiful songs on the album. It's followed up by Along Came You, a delicious musical construct that leaves the listener picturing a lone horse and rider crossing a plain from the far horizon to here. The melody of Along Came You is inspired; it's a rock ballad that will be major mix tape material and has a great pipes solo to boot. Secrets Of The Day may just be my favorite song on the album. Guitar, pipes and violin intertwine to build a driving rock song that you won't be able to get out of your head. Other highlights include Glasgow, Push, Speak To Me and Rose De Lay.

The Killdares are the sort of band that do not come along often. The marriage of traditional Celtic style and Rock N Roll is a powerful one when done right, and the Killdares are definitely doing it right. They are an exciting band to listen on CD; I can't even imagine the intensity of a live show, but I bet its worth the time and money. Secrets Of The Day is a monster disc. It's a Wildy's World Certified Desert Island disc, and a must for fans of Celtic music or Rock N Roll. Don't pass this one by.

Review: "Home Brew" by 3 Pints Gone

2009-11-05T15:55:00.003-06:00

Artist: 3 Pints Gone
Album: Home Brew
Year produced: 2009

Do you like a good harmony combined with a nice Celtic sound? If so, then "Home Brew" is for you. I've reviewed this group before and I'm happy to report that they are still providing listeners with a solid CD full of verve and sincere, heartfelt music. I have to say that they have also tightened up their sound--not that they were bad before! The harmonies here were sometimes sweet and other times rousing; but always top-notch. Don't miss the last track, "Sailor's Prayer"-- it delivers the best harmony of all.

Traditional style music is what this band delivers, and they are now joined by a new member, Jesse Linder, which certainly has not hurt things any. He makes a nice addition to the group. The twelve tracks here range from energetic to soulful, like all good Celtic music should. Still, the overall mood is fun, and 3 Pints Gone has that down--without a doubt. A good time was had by all--including me.

Catherine L. Tully is a freelance writer and photographer who specializes in the arts. She has written for American Style and Classical Singer, among other magazines, and reviews music for Marc Gunn's Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. You can reach her through her website at CatherineLTully.com.

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Review: "The Perfect Pint" by Adam Alexander & Joe Travers

2009-11-03T17:03:00.000-06:00

Artist: Adam Alexander & Joe Travers
Album: The Perfect Pint
Year produced: 2009

Terrific! I loved this CD and I'll tell you why--there is nothing quite like it out there. I can't describe the sound of these voices adequetely, so I won't even try. Suffice it to say that I could listen to them sing for hours on end without any problem. The rich vocals are just a part of the charm of "The Perfect Pint". (Not to mention that it is a great name for an album!) Some favorites here include "Botany Bay" which showcases some spectacular guitar playing, and Whistlin' Gypsy.

Lovers of folk and Celtic sound will appreciate the effort these two men have put into this CD--it has a good polish on it and they have taken the time to make sure only their best efforts made it to the album. These guys are backed by a good deal of natural talent. Throughout the album you'll hear favorite songs here, but interpreted through the lens of these two men and their unique take on the classics. Nothing too "out there," but different enough to make things interesting. You'll also some hear original songs--which hold their own alongside the traditional tunes.

Review: "On Better Paths" by Beth Patterson

2009-11-01T17:17:00.000-06:00

Artist: Beth Patterson
Album: On Better Paths
Year produced: 2009

Beth Patterson has created a truly unique album here with "On Better Paths". Coming from an eclectic path musically, you can expect to hear influences here that are not entirely Celtic, but that is part of the reason this is such a creative CD. Patterson does sound like she should have been singing Irish music her entire life--it suits the sound of her voice quite well. I loved the first track here, "Come Hell or High Water". Some tracks, such as "Sugar Cane" have almost a funk vibe to them, while others (for example, "When I Am Old") offer a bit of whimsey. Oh, and the harmonies on "Sine Nomine" were simply astounding. Seriously.

Her music has been loosely categorized as something called ""SWAP" (Songwriter World Acoustic Progressive), which seems to fit just fine. There are plenty of tracks on this album to get a feel for Patterson's style and see what you think. You won't be going down the typical road here, but sometimes, that is a good thing. I thought the experimental feel of her music was interesting--it isn't something that you hear every day.

MP3: "Eamonn an Chnoic" by Dark Patrick

2009-10-18T07:53:00.000-05:00

Dark Patrick brings a new combination of sounds to Celtic music. Performing a combination of Irish, Scottish, Welsh, and Ukrainian dances, rare ancient melodies, little known songs, and a few more famous ones (in Ukrainian, Irish and English languages) on traditional Ukrainian and Irish instruments.

Their music is dynamic, touching mostly on old Irish songs by expanding into an emotional Ukrainian Cossack. You never know what you're going to hear, and that's one of the main draws of this group. Drawing on their wide musical tastes and experiences, their unique style is evident in their songs and music.

Hometown: Kyiv, Ukraine
Website: Dark Patrick
Download MP3: Eamonn an Chnoic
Buy CD: Fainne Gael An Lae

Similar Artists: Planxty, Silly Wizard, Alan Stivell

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MP3: "Saucy Sailor" by Burning Bridget Cleary

2009-10-17T07:41:00.000-05:00

Burning Bridget Cleary formed on St. Patrick's Day in 2006 when Genevieve Gillespie joined forces with a father-daughter duo, Lou and Rose Baldino. The union brought was a lively, beautiful Celtic flair that had youthful intensity and exuberance on even traditional tunes. Each song builds in intensity and energy, the same energy that has captivated audiences everywhere. Their CD, Everything is Alright, was released in November 2008.

Hometown: Harleysville, Pennsylvania, USA
Website: Burning Bridget Cleary
Download MP3: Saucy Sailor
Buy CD: Everything Is Alright

Similar Artists: Solas, Liz Carroll, Scythian

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MP3: "The Conundrum" by Brad Reid

2009-10-16T07:27:00.000-05:00

Brad Reid has been working on a music career since 2002. Although he first studied saxophone, his interests and the demands placed on him as a working musician led him to other woodwind instruments - the flute and clarinet. In addition, he also plays the fiddle, guitar, and bagpipes. Reid has had the opportunity to tour with Joel Mason and his Elton John tribute show, as well as Johnny Thunder (formerly of The Drifters), Eddie Holman, and more.

Brad’s versatility of styles and instruments continues to open many doors for him, and led to the recent release of his first traditional Cape Breton fiddle album, “The Conundrum”, on which he recorded both the fiddle and guitar.

Hometown: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Website: Brad Reid
Download MP3: The Conundrum
Buy CD: The Conundrum

Similar Artists: Andrea Beaton, Ashley MacIsaac, Buddy MacMaster

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MP3: "Dance With Me" by Jenna Greene

2009-10-15T06:31:00.003-05:00

Jenna Greene, also known as The Green Lady, shows off her amazing voice and songwriting talents, weaving tales of myth and magic into her songs. Inspired by anciet lore, Greene takes the listener on a quest, encouraging them to follow their dreams and view life with a child-like wonder. An amazing talent, she has traveled all over New England bringing her songs to various audiences. Her sound, her voice, her songs...are so easy to fall in love with.

Hometown: Burrillville, Rhode Island, USA
Website: Jenna Greene
Download MP3: Dance With Me
Buy CD: Crossroads

Similar Artists: Loreena McKennitt, Celtic Woman, Clannad, Mary Black, Katie McMahon

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MP3: "The Day After The Night Before" by Dust Rhinos

2009-10-14T07:52:00.000-05:00

They are big men with a monster sound. There is no better way to describe the Dust Rhinos. The band consists of two violins, a mandolin, and a bodhran and they use those instruments to bludgeon their wild audience with a Celtic sonic assault, leaving them wanting more. Playing traditional airs, reels, and jigs, the Dust Rhinos give each tune a new twist of hard-core Celtic rock! It's a beautiful thing!

Hometown: Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
Website: http://www.dustrhinos.com/
Download MP3: The Day After The Night Before
Buy CD: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/dustrhinos4/from/celtic/

Similar Artists: Flogging Molly, The Pouges, The Oysterband

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MP3: "The Hanging of Jamie Macpherson" by Grey Aengus

2009-10-13T07:17:00.000-05:00

Grey Aengus presents traditional instruments on traditional Celtic music. Playing the tunes on Hammer Dulcimer and Hurdy Gurdy, the sound that Grey Aengus creates takes you back to the past...and you lose yourself there.

Hometown: Racine, Wisconsin. USA
Website: Grey Aengus
Download MP3: The Hanging of Jamie Macpherson
Buy CD: Gaelic Soup

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Review: "When Humans Walked The Earth" by Mason Brown

2009-10-08T12:40:00.000-05:00

Artist: Mason Brown
Album: When Humans Walked The Earth
Year produced: 2008

The interesting Celto-Appalachian style is really well done here on "When Humans Walked The Earth". The two musical styles compliment each other so readily that it seems fairly natural that people would want to blend them. Even so, not all do it with the ease that is seen here. Brown mixes sounds seamlessly and makes you feel like there was no other way it could have been done. That takes considerable skill, and I was really impressed with his arrangements here, as well as the skill of the musicians.

"The Cuckoo" was by far my favorite song of the bunch, but I have a feeling that this is a CD where everyone will hear it a little differently. There are both traditional and original songs featured throughout--some short--some long. The track listing makes sense and adds to the ebb and flow of the album as well. Accompaniment is always easy and seems to be effortless, although this effect is really not possible without considerable ability. This is not a CD that you need to concentrate on to enjoy; simply sit back and let the music wash over you.

Review: "The Day After The Night Before" by Dust Rhinos

2009-10-07T12:28:00.000-05:00

Artist: Dust Rhinos
Album: The Day After The Night Before
Year produced: 2009

This CD has all the Celtic rock energy you need to go all night long feeling good about life. It has the push and raucous style of punk music without the anarchy--a really great combination! The five-piece band from Canada is no new kid on the block and it shows here in their tight stylings and unbounded energy. Somehow they still manage to show off their considerable talent on the instruments while barreling down the road full-steam with song after song. Funny without being slapstick silly, these guys know how to bring just the right touch to each song they craft.

Don't miss songs like track 4, "Sally Brown" and track 11, "Step It Out Mary" which help show that the band is as versatile as they are talented. If you are looking for a CD that you can get excited about, this would be one that I would recommend checking out. The right blend of fun, skill, music and energy, Dust Rhinos are immensely listenable. I look forward to the next one--and even if it was just more of the same--I'd be satisfied.

Review: "Tejas Go Bragh" by Don Gabbert

2009-10-06T15:13:00.001-05:00

Artist: Don Gabbert
Album: Tejas Go Bragh
Year produced: 2000

Love that 'ol country music sound? Do you dig good Irish flavor? If your answer is a big, hearty "yes," then Don's your man! I really enjoyed the unusual blending of style and feeling on this CD. Both the west and Ireland are represented here and it is quite unlike anything I've heard before.

Fresh and distinct, Gabbert's mix works quite nicely.

You'll find familiar tunes here such as "Yellow Rose of Texas" and "Danny Boy," but don't think you can figure out how they'll be presented before you have a listen. My personal favorite is "Somewhere in Kildare," which is a good tune to highlight as an example of this entire CD's style.

I loved Gabbert's voice--totally country. It reminds me of something you'd hear on a jukebox in a fun bar out somewhere in the west. Of course, the Irish songs and sound would be a bit out of the ordinary in that setting. Still, that is kind of what this entire album is about really. After all, why not stay true to yourself, right?

Fans of easy country style will love this CD, but those who have a strong Irish streak will favor it as well. A really unexpected treat.

MP3: "Long Island High" by The Killdares

2009-10-05T18:54:00.001-05:00

The Killdares are not just a band. Far from it really. This group is an experience! The band formed back in 1996 and, since then, have grown to become one of the hottest, cutting edge bands in music today - Celtic or otherwise.

Comprised of world-class musicans fro all over the US, the Killdares have been creating their hard-driving, alternative Celtic rock music by blending their skills in the Celtic realm with power-pop sounds and straight up rock n' roll hooks.

It's a fresh new sound that is sure to get you hooked at first listen.

Hometown: Dallas, Texas, USA
Website: The Killdares
Download MP3: Long Island High
Buy CD: Secrets of the Day

Similar Artists: The Levellers, Ashley MacIsaac, Great Big Sea, Seven Nations

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MP3: "Sailor's Prayer" by Queen's Gambit

2009-09-30T10:51:00.001-05:00

Queen's Gambit value the traditions of Irish and Scottish music. That's why this band keeps steadfast to these traditions. Playing traditional insturments like violin, viola, tinwhistle, guitar and bodhran, Queen's Gambit brings back the tradition in traditional-style Celtic music. And how sweet it is!

Hometown: Coweta, Oklahoma, USA
Website: Queen's Gambit
Download MP3: "Sailor's Prayer"
Buy CD: Castle - Queen's Side/

Similar Artists: Tullamore, Amberhawke, Jim Flanagan, Danny O'Flaherty

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MP3: "Celtic Rainbow" by The Gothard Sisters

2009-09-30T08:02:00.002-05:00

Greta, Willow, and Solana, three young musicians who make up The Gothard Sisters, have been playing fiddle since they were five years old. Originally classically trained on violin, they made the switch to fiddle and began to mesh that sound with their classical training. What emerged was a unique sound that is all their own. Their songs are deep, amazing stories that take the listener on journeys to America, and through struggles and trials. They encapture the audience with their sound.

Their latest CD, "Celtic Rainbow" features the intricuate sound of fiddle harmonies, the sweet, uplifting voice of Solana, and unique arrangements of popular songs. They have a never-ending supply of new ideas and they aren't affraid to take risks. This is what makes these sisters the great musicians that they are.

Hometown: USA
Website: The Gothard Sisters
Download MP3: Celtic Rainbow
Buy CD: Celtic Rainbow

Similar Artists: Maidens IV, Celtic Spring, Dougie Maclean

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MP3: "Murscheen Durkin" by Deep Green Light

2009-09-29T14:45:00.003-05:00

In the South of Italy, at the very end of 2007, Deep Green Light formed. Since then, they have performed acoustic anthems of Irish-pub tradition as well as mystic Celtic tunes that sweep the listener away to the rolling green hills of Ireland. Not only do they perform classical songs of traditional music, but they have created their own songs as well, pulling together numerous influences that have shaped their music over the years. Together, their instruments and songs put together a magical and evocative performance.

Hometown: Cava de' Tirreni (SA) - ITALY
Website: Deep Green Light
Download MP3: Murscheen Durkin

Similar Artists: Gaelic Storm, Orthodox Celts, Pogues

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MP3: "Tippin The Jar" by The Sheridan Band

2009-09-29T10:28:00.000-05:00

The Sheridan Band is a band so full of energy, it's catching. Even in their music. The band, made up of four family members, quickly discovered their skill and knack for music during impromptu sessions at family and community events. They have performed live at various venues from Northern Ontario down into Michigan. They are worth checking out.

Hometown: St Thomas, Canada
Website: The Sheridan Band
Download MP3: Tippin The Jar
Buy CD: Life at Terrance Hall

Similar Artists: Great Big Sea, The Rankin Family, Spirit of the West

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MP3: "Rain Over Rahoon" by The Skelligs

2009-09-29T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hailing from Croatia, The Skelligs emerges with an energizing and traditional acoustic sound. Their sound is predominantely Irish, but varies every now and again to somethin gmore fused. It all depends on the occasion and the venue in which they play. Their goal is to find harmony between tradition and innovation. They do it well.

Hometown: Split, Croatia
Website: The Skelligs
Download MP3: Rain Over Rahoon

Similar Artists: The Bothy Band, Dervish, Flook, Lunasa, The Chiftains

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Review: "Beer Belly" by Paddy's Boots

2009-09-01T12:13:00.001-05:00

Artist: Paddy's Boots
Album: Beer Belly
Year produced: 2009

There is great collection of tunes here--and plenty of them to listen to as well. If you are in the mood for a rousing reel or jig, Paddy's Boots does indeed deliver. Sprightly sounds spring forth from the instruments as the music is called forth from the skilled hands of the musicians. There are no amateurs here! Beautifully played, the songs on this CD feature a good mix of Irish dance music that is a pleasure to listen to. Need to get motivated for something? This is a good album to put on!

Beer Belly delivers right out of the gate with the first track--a well-played reel. From there the CD continues to move through different songs and arrangements featuring different traditional sounds and instruments. There is nothing too offbeat here, so the album is best-suited to those who favor traditional stylings. Nothing wrong with that. The musicians here draw from a wide variety of different musical backgrounds including folk, jazz and classical, so here and there a bit may pop through, but Celtic music lovers will feel right at home with this CD on. It stays the course.

Review: "Out on The Ocean" by BardicRose

2009-08-31T12:04:00.000-05:00

Artist: BardicRose
Album: Out on the Ocean
Year produced: 2007

This is a pretty album, full of different emotions and executed very well. The band is from central Florida, and they have played together for quite some time. It shows. The harmonies are complex and flawless and the arrangements are interesting without being overdone. Both instruments and vocals evoke emotion here, something that doesn't always play out well on Celtic albums. There are quite a few tracks to choose from here, and each offers the listener something a little different. A nice mix.

The band describes themselves as a Celtic-Folk-Renaissance-Medieval-Rock-Acoustic band, which makes them seem like they couldn't decide what they wanted to do. In reality, you can see these influences ebb and flow through the different tracks and flavor them as a good mix of spices would add to a nice Irish stew. Delicious. I really enjoyed this CD and would recommend it without hesitation to even the most particular listener of Celtic music. It has got all of the ingredients right there. Taste it and enjoy!

Review: "For My Grandfathers" by Terry Griffith

2009-08-30T11:51:00.000-05:00

Artist: Terry Griffith
Album: For My Grandfathers
Year produced: 1993

The title of this album, For My Grandfathers, gives listeners a clue as to where Terry Griffith is coming from as an Irish-American. You can feel the affection he has for Ireland come through in his music, and this nice collection of tunes provides a lovely selection of songs for any occasion. The title track is heartfelt, and there is something really enjoyable about Griffith's voice that shines through on every track here. You can tell that in his heart he is never far from his ancestors, even though he lives in the USA.

On this album you'll find songs to sing along to, such as "Red Rose Cafe," as well as those to just enjoy, like "Ride On". Irish ballads combine with acoustic instrumentation to form the backbone of this CD, making it perfect for the traditional Celtic music lover. This type of album is one to savor when you feel like connecting with Ireland. Between the instruments, vocals and emotion here, you'll feel close indeed. Neither too long or too short, the collection of songs is sure to satisfy.