Celtic MP3s Music Magazine

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.

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

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.

Review: "Thistle" by Scott Boswell

2009-08-17T20:16:00.000-05:00

Artist: Scott Boswell
Album: Thistle

Year produced: 2008

Those who heard Scott Boswell's first CD, "Jug of Punch" will be in for a little bit of a surprise when they hear "Thistle". This effort is all original, representing Boswell's own sense of musical style. The album is almost entirely devoid of vocals, bringing a tight focus to the music and arrangements. Far more progressive than his first effort, this takes the Celtic sound and turns it on its side. This may be a good CD for those who really enjoy hearing a unique representation of the Celtic sound side by side with other musical influences.

Don't expect the same gentle feel on every track that the first album gave. Some of the songs here deliver a sound that is far different. Still, phrases come through that recall the sweet flute and calm stylings of the former CD. You can hear that influence here. Listen for mandolin, whistles and slide guitar, all of which add dimensions to the music that broaden the sound. At times this CD even calls forth a "blues" feel, but the underpinnings are still Celtic. Great for the progressive listener who wants something different.

MP3: "Play For Them" by The Booze Brothers

2009-08-08T08:07:00.000-05:00

Describing themselves as "The Pogues on speed," The Booze Brothers are pumped and primed and ready to take the Celtic world by storm. This band is not just Irish traditional, but they have a bit of punk thrown in there too. The result...magic.

Hometown: Pyrenees, France
Website: The Booze Brothers
Download MP3: Play For Them
Buy CD: Hang On

Similar Artists: Flogging Molly, Blood or Whiskey, The Porters, The Greenland Whalers

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MP3: "Up The Main Topsail" by Trinity River Whalers

2009-08-07T07:54:00.000-05:00

The Trinity River Whalers (also known as "The Whalers") are high-energy and really put out music that keeps a party beat, and makes people want to get up and dance. Their high-energy Celtic/folk style is catchy and full of fast tempos and rhythms, accompanied by dynamic vocals. Always fun. Always a party. This Celtic band is a treat...in a box.

Hometown: Fort Worth, Texas, USA
Website: Trinity River Whalers
Download MP3: Up The Main Topsail
Buy CD: Party In A Box

Similar Artists: Irish rover, Wolftones, Dubliners, Old Crow Medicine Show

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MP3: "The Titanic" by The Langer's Ball

2009-08-06T07:35:00.004-05:00

If you like Celtic music that offers a variety to the norm...then you need not look further than The Langer's Ball. The Langer's Ball is a 2-piece Celtic group, featuring Michael Sturm on guitar, mandolin and vocals, and Hannah Rediske on accordian and penny whistle.

Whether it's traditional tunes, contemporary, or original, this duo has the sound and the chops to put out enjoyable music for everyone. Having just formed 2 years ago, they have already played over 200 shows in various locations and acquired quite a following of their own.

Hometown: St. Paul, Minnesota USA
Website: The Langer's Ball
Download MP3: The Titanic
Buy CD: As I Roved Out

Similar Artists: Gaelic Storm, Flogging Molly, The Pogues, Great Big Sea, The Mahones

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