Review: “Heartwood” by Sora
Artist: Sora
Album: Heartwood
Sora refers to herself as both neoclassical and Contemporary Celtic, but neither of these quite capture the depth of her music. Some may even put her in the “new age” category. A mezzo-soprano, this woman’s vocals are pretty, pretty, pretty, and they capture a lot of emotion. This CD is filled with original songs, and you can tell that the Canadian artist has put thought and feeling into every moment here. It shows.
The singer also took some time to decide on the name she chose for herself as a performer. “Sora” was selected as she noticed that it had references to birds. Symbolism is something that this artist seems to take very seriously, and it is reflected in the words to her songs as well as her choice of name.
This album is worth listening to for the vocals alone. It is rare to hear a voice that just defines beauty. That said, the arrangement of the music provides the perfect foil and it all works together very smoothly. If you want to find a CD that will soothe you when things are tough, this may well be the perfect selection.
Some musicians are performers and some are true artists. It seems clear from every detail of “Heartwood” that Sora belongs in the latter category. Take a listen and you will be restored.
Catherine L. Tully specializes in writing about the arts, lifestyle and travel. She is the Owner of 4dancers, a blog for those who love dance, and Editor for Freelance-Zone, an award-winning site for freelance writers. Catherine also reviews music for Celtic MP3s Music Magazine.
MP3: “Maeve’s Grave” by PaddyMac
Husband and wife team, Patsy and Gil McNaughton make up PaddyMac. Their traditional sound is drawn from Patsy’s beautiful vocals and Gil’s music arrangements on bass, guitar, fiddle, flute, pennywhistle, and bodhran. Their music is traditional and unique all at the same time. In fact, PaddyMac have performed Irish dance with The Chieftains, the Tannahil Weavers, and often have other dancers perform while they are on stage. It’s good, traditional, Irish fun.
Hometown: Cedar Rapids, Iowa, USA
Website: PaddyMac
Download MP3: Maeve’s Grave
Buy CD: Far From Home
Similar Artists: Danu, Bothy Band, Gaelic Storm
MP3: “Irish Ephitaph” by Dublin O’Shea
Based out of Milwaukee, Dublin O’Shea formed in 2002 and since then has dedicated their time and music to preserving Celtic folk music. Their songs are primarily pub songs from Ireland, Scotland, and the sea. With songs that stretch from sea shanties to contemporary songs, Dublin O’Shea has something for everyone. Their style and enthusiasm mirrors their love of the music they play. Some bands get this wrong – but Dublin O’Shea does it oh, so right!
Hometown: Waukesha, Wisconsin, USA
Website: Dublin O’Shea
Download MP3: Irish Epitaph
Buy CD: Have Another Drink Boys
Similar Artists: Great Big Sea, Battlefield Band, Father Son And Friends, Gaelic Storm
Review: “The Angel’s Share” by Atlantic Wave
Artist: Atlantic Wave
Album: The Angel’s Share
A great mixture of Irish, Scottish and Cape Breton music, “The Angel’s Share” is a super listen. There are 15 tracks here that sparkle, and plenty of fiddle for those who just can’t get enough of the instrument. The Wisconsin-based band released this, their second CD, in 2009. The four main players (Kaitlin Hahn, Barry Houlehen, John Karr and Ed Paloucek) have a nice, tight sound, and the fact that two of them are fiddle players really rounds out their music.
This CD has guests on it as well, which always adds a bit of a twist to the sound of an album. Keeps things fresh. You’ll hear Troy MacGillivray on the piano and Priscilla Skrade on the accordion.
The songs here are varied, which also helps keep things interesting. Where some albums settle into a comfortable, predictable pattern, Atlantic Wave decides instead to stretch out a bit and explore some of the possibilities. I definitely wouldn’t classify them as experimental, but they are not a boring bunch. Songs like “Math Exam” and “Black Eyed Gypsy” have a good energy to them, and the blend of styles works well also.
Catherine L. Tully specializes in writing about the arts, lifestyle and travel. She is the Owner of 4dancers, a blog for those who love dance, and Editor for Freelance-Zone, an award-winning site for freelance writers. Catherine also reviews music for Celtic MP3s Music Magazine.
Review: “Bankers and Gangsters” by Black 47
Artist: Black 47
Album: Bankers and Gangsters
“Bankers and Gangsters” is a great CD by the well-known band, Black 47. Their latest offering is a celebration of 20 years on the road, delivering some great Celtic Rock. Black 47 has developed quite a following over the years, and if you haven’t yet heard them, this effort provides the perfect opportunity to sample their distinct style. These guys are true pioneers.
When you listen to this band you may be tempted to dismiss them as “rockers”, but they are people who aren’t afraid to take on a heavy issue or make a political statement. In fact, they are known for doing just that. This latest effort upholds that tradition, but also takes time out for some fun as well. Check out songs like “Celtic Rocker” if you want to just kick back and jam, but savor “Red Hugh” for when you want to think.
Many Celtic rock bands have modeled themselves after this band, and it is easy to see why. Their sound after so many years has become quite effortless, and they play together as if they are all blood-related. Their causes bind them together and their talent makes that a great listen. Those who have followed this band for a long time will appreciate this CD and those who have never heard them can get a great feel for their music through listening to “Bankers and Gangsters”.
Top notch.
Catherine L. Tully specializes in writing about the arts, lifestyle and travel. She is the Owner of 4dancers, a blog for those who love dance, and Editor for Freelance-Zone, an award-winning site for freelance writers. Catherine also reviews music for Celtic MP3s Music Magazine.
Review: “Storas” by Mary Jane Lamond
Artist: Mary Jane Lamond
Album: Storas
Well. I have to say that I was drawn to this CD before I even had a listen. The cover itself reflected the good taste and artistry that Ms. Lamond has within. And I was not disappointed when I listened to her music–it is beautiful. Beautiful.
Unlike anything I have ever heard before, “Storas” (which is Gaelic for “treasure”), is a thoughtful, fascinating experience from start to finish. Something about listening to music in another language has always been amazing to me–I’m a big fan of Gregorian chant–and this CD is no exception. Some tracks soothe, while others are sprightly, but each is crafted carefully for impact. And impact it does.
There is no doubt that there is a world music flavor here, but it doesn’t overwhelm the Celtic feel of the music. This delicate balance is in large part why I found the songs here so intriuging. Her interpretation of the Scottish Gaelic songs she chose is quite lovely and I would highly recommend this CD to all comers. I’m not going to highlight any tracks in particular, because they are all a pleasure.
Catherine L. Tully specializes in writing about the arts, lifestyle and travel. She is the Owner of 4dancers, a blog for those who love dance, and Editor for Freelance-Zone, an award-winning site for freelance writers. Catherine also reviews music for Celtic MP3s Music Magazine.
Review: “Who’s Yer Paddy” by The Brazen Heads
Artist: The Brazen Heads
Album: Who’s Yer Paddy
This Celtic rock band is from Phoenix, AZ and they provide a great selection of music for fans of the genre here on “Who’s Yer Paddy”. There were some surprises along the way, such as a version of Pachelbel’s Canon in D–not something you see every day on a Celtic CD! Still, it was a good rendition. And this entire album has a bit of the unexpected on it.
Other standout tracks include the band’s version of “Wind That Shakes The Barley” and “One Eyed Reilly”. There were some softer songs too, such as “Dirty Dublin” and “His Dream”. The album is an unusual mix–some tracks are a little more gentle than you might expect for Celtic rock–but it works here. When the band cuts loose, however, things get a bit crazy–which is also a lot of fun!
I enjoyed seeing what each new track had to offer as I listened to their work, and never could guess what The Brazen Heads would be serving up next.
And you know what? Sometimes that’s a good thing.
Catherine L. Tully specializes in writing about the arts, lifestyle and travel. She is the Owner of 4dancers, a blog for those who love dance, and Editor for Freelance-Zone, an award-winning site for freelance writers. Catherine also reviews music for Celtic MP3s Music Magazine.
Celtic CD Summer Sale Blowout!
Summer is here along with warmer weather. Surely you need some Celtic music to keep you cool!But throwing aside the cliches…
I have a lot of CDs packed in my office. Some are overflowing from the boxes. And I need to make room for my new CD Kilted For Her Pleasure which will arrive in about two weeks from the printers. (Though sorry. It doesn’t go on sale until August 15th. However, you can sponsor the album at Year Of The Kilt.Com.)
That said, I picked a bunch of CDs and priced them at outrageously low prices so you hear some my latest music, plus, pick up some old favorites.
Order CDs from the
Celtic CD Summer Sale Blowout!
This offer is good through the summer. Then it’s gone! So order now!
In fact, pick up copies for your friends and family. They will love you for it!
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Marc Gunn is an acoustic Celtic folk musician, called “The Godfather of Celtic music online” for his steadfast support of indie Celtic music, free Celtic music downloads, and his award-winning Irish and Celtic Music Podcast, one of the most-popular music podcasts on iTunes. He has helped 1000s of musicians save and make money with their musical groups through The Bards Crier Music Marketing Ezine. Now you can get FREE “how-to” music marketing and promotion advice, plus tips on how to sell more CDs when you subscribe today. Subscribe at www.bardscrier.com!
Published by Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. Don’t just download. Support your favorite Celtic music groups. Buy Celtic music CDs. Please share this post.
MP3: “Four Sons” by The BeerMats
The BeerMats have a simple philosophy when it comes to their music: Soak it up and enjoy! That’s not hard to do while listening to their music. This year, The BeerMats are celebrating their 16th year in the Irish music scene. No easy feet for any band, but, then again, this band isn’t your ordinary band.
The BeerMats were founded in 1993 by Colm Gibbons and Brian Smith, and later expanded to include Tono Brennan and Francis Scattergood. From their humble beginnings, a super group grew. They’ve opened for some of the biggest names in Irish music.
With three albums to their credit, The BeerMats show no sign of slowing down. Not only are they great musicians, but the band is also known for their charity work and have raised thousands of Euro for local and national causes. They are always willing to help out whenever they can.
The BeerMats just recorded a new EP, “Peace One Day In Time.”
Hometown: Dublin, Ireland
Website: The BeerMats
Download MP3: Four Sons
Buy CD: Peace One Day In Time
Similar Artists: The Furey’s, Wolfe Tones, The Dublin City Ramblers
MP3: “Gallant Band” by Brendan O’Loughlin
Brendan O’Loughlin hails from Limerick City, Ireland. His love of Irish music and the Irish way of life is evident in his tunes. He plays Celtic folk music in a rockabilly style, ranging from love songs, to folk rock, to festival songs, to ballads, to drinking songs, to rebel songs, to contemporary folk songs. Nothing is out of his ability to perform. Gallant Band is one of the rebel songs he performs. It’s one of the best.
Hometown: Limerick City, Ireland
Website: Brendan O’Loughlin
Download MP3: Gallant Band
Buy CD: Between Two Shores
Similar Artists: Gordan Lightfoot,Paddy Reilly
