by Catherine L. Tully

Artist: Brobdingnagian Bards
Album: "The Holy Grail of Irish Drinking Songs"
Year produced: 2006

Here is a good question--how can you go wrong with an Irish drinking songs CD? The answer is that you can't--especially when it is the Brobdingnagian Bards, and the CD starts out with "Beer, Beer, Beer?" Irish songs can be done and re-done, but its the mood they are recorded in and the feel of the tune through the artist's interpretation is what makes all the difference in the world to the listener. The Brobdingnagian Bards couldn't have picked a grouping of songs that were better suited to their relaxed, jovial style and sound--and they nailed it with this collection. You'll hear some good ol' favorites through their voices and be tappin' your feet the whole time through.

"Seven Drunken Nights" is my personal favorite, because it sounds like it was recorded in the pub after a pint... or five... just plain great fun and good music--a romp! In fact, the Bards have topped all other efforts on this compilation--hitting their stride and really shining here. As always, the music is well-played and the arrangements manage to be traditional and unique, all at the same time.

Ending with "Health to the Company" at track 16 left me wanting to hear more, appealing to my Irish heart in the way that only this music can. The good news is--I am sure that there is more to come from these guys! My only regret is that I was drinking tea while listening! (I'll fix that and listen to them next time with a beer in hand...) Don't miss this great collection of songs!

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Catherine L. Tully is a freelance writer and photographer who specializes in the arts. She has written for American Style and Classical Singer, among others and reviews music for Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. You can reach her through her photography website at www.moonbeamdigital.com.

Labels: cd_review_2006

Posted by Marc Gunn, Monday, December 11, 2006.
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