Old ballads draw some singers like a siren song that cannot be denied. Part of the joy of collecting and presenting these ancient songs to a modern audience comes from finding, combining, dropping and adding words and verses, swapping melodies and hooks and finally recording an arrangement that resonates with the listener of today. This is… Continue reading Lindsay Straw: The Fairest Flower of Womankind
Natives of Toulouse, France, the six members of Doolin’ (guitar, bodhrán, violin, tin whistle, accordion/vocals, bass) bring a fresh and funky approach to Irish music. July 15 will mark the release date of their self-titled debut for Compass Records in Nashville. Doolin’ worked with legendary Irish guitarist John Doyle in the producer’s chair to record their unique mix of… Continue reading Exclusive Song Premiere: Doolin’
The brilliant new record from Irish supergroup Solas must have been a pain to produce. Or at least, a pain to round up the troops. Titled All These Years, the album features ALL former band members as well as the current lineup of Seamus Egan, Winifred Horan, Moira Smiley, Mick McAuley, and Eamon McElholm singing,… Continue reading Solas: All These Years
Last month, Nuala Kennedy released one of the most gorgeous records to cross my desk in years. Her fourth studio album, Behave the Bravest (Under the Arch Records) showcases her angelic voice in both Gaelic and English and as usual, her superlative skills on flute and various whistles. If you follow Nuala at all, you… Continue reading Nuala Kennedy: Behave the Bravest
