Lunasa

Lunasa

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Lunasa introduced a new rhythmic complexity and harmonic sophistication to traditional Irish music on their self-titled 1997 debut, which Compass Records is now reissuing for the first time in America. The trio of fiddler Sean Smyth, flautist Mike McGoldrick, and uilleann piper John McSherry supply the melody, and they negotiate the twists and turns of the intricate jigs and reels with a technical virtuosity and sense of joy that recalls the legendary Bothy Band. But as good as these three are, the heart and soul of the band is the rhythm section of bassist Trevor Hutchinson and guitarist Donogh Hennessy. Together they explore the subtle rhythmic variations and harmonic possibilities implied by the tunes. They don't impose a new order on the old melodies, but instead bring out a richness that was always there. Although the recording quality is not quite up to the standards of their later releases, the addition of a bonus live track recorded in 1996 and the sheer exuberance of their playing make this an essential recording by one the most important Irish bands to emerge in the 1990s. --Michael Simmons

Tracks:

The Cullybacky Hop
Leckan Mor
Absent Friends
Loophead
Midnight In Aviles
The Dingle Berries
Black River
Road To Barga
Two Of A Kind
Glentransa
Boy In The Boat

Amazon.com

Lúnasa's contribution to Saint Patrick's Day 2006 (and all celebrations thereafter!) is Sé (pronounced "shay" -- Irish for "six", this being their album of that number.) Produced by double-bassist Trevor Hutchinson, the band's trademark instrumentals are as tight, weightless and clean as ever, with a sophisticated perpendicular swing that sometimes knocks more typically straight up-and-down reels and jigs sideways. But despite the festal merriment of the dance pieces, the real standouts are the slow airs, in which poignant, meandering melodies unfold in a leisurely manner, gradually revealing themselves in full splendor. "Absent Friends", composed by flute, whistle, and bodhrán player Kevin Crawford and paired with Diarmaid Moynihan's equally lovely "Ivory Lady" is one such, "Two Of A Kind/Portobello" and especially, "Glentrasna/ Miss Admiral Gordon's Strathpey" are two more. "Midnight In Avilés" consists of a tune from Galicia, an ancient Celtic outpost in Northern Spain, plus two from Brittany in Western-most France, one of the original six Celtic nations along with Ireland, Scotland, Isle Of Mann, Wales and Cornwall. --Christina Roden

Album Description

Lúnasa's self-titled 1996 debut album was considered by many to be a new chapter in the development of Irish music. By pinning traditional elements of composition and instrumentation to a fluid rhythmic undercurrent, Lúnasa achieved a new pinnacle of urgency and intricacy -- sparking off unprecedented acclaim and notoriety in the process.

Lúnasa's sixth album Sé (pronounced "Shay"), reveals the band at the top of their creative prowess. Marked by a shift towards a more sophisticated and always original approach, their music is mirrored with styles that inflect more contemporary sounding arrangements that exuberate an ornamental elegance.

Building on the rock-solid rhythmic foundation of double bassist Trevor Hutchinson (ex-Waterboys, Sharon Shannon Band), piper Cillian Vallely, flautist Kevin Crawford, and fiddler Sean Smyth create a melodic context while introducing the alternating contributions of guitarists Paul Meehan and Tim Edey. Six years of constant touring has elevated the band's already-formidable skill to peak brilliance, perfectly captured on Sé.

Customer Reviews:

Sláinte!.......2006-12-02

Lúnasa perhaps more than any other Irish band out there commands the ability to impress, over and over again. Their fluidity and complete mastery of their instruments and material are simply more than we expected were possible.

Sé is a strong piece of work, building off of some of the band's best styles. As usual the majority of the tracks are multiple sets, binding some traditional and some original work. Lúnasa has always done well with slower, less bouyant airs as well, and "Glentrasna" stands out here. While overall I must say I prefer their earlier work, Redwood, this album captures much of the same spirit. Suffice it to say that my last bit of paperwork in a non-heated trailer in the midst of a cold snap was rendered much warmer and more agreeable by the sound of this music! Well worth toasting with a pint of Guinness Draught!

Perhaps their best work yet.......2006-08-01

Despite the disappointing departure of long-time guitarist Donogh Hennessy, Lúnasa is at the top of their game on this album, and in my opinion, this could be their best album yet.

The tunes on this album, whether original or traditional, are solid, and there is perhaps only one track (track 5: Midnight in Avilés) that I dislike. The rest are amazing, whether invocative of dance (track 1: The Cullyback Hop) or beautifully haunting (track 7: Black River; my favorite on the album).

If you get a chance, please see them in concert, but in the meantime, get this album.

Hard to fault.......2006-07-22

Okay, so Donogh is gone, but the Band have still got it down. It must do his head good though, that they now have two guitarists handling his spot!
It gives the Band a new dynamic. There are some terrific tunes on here. True experts on their instruments and though the sound is always polished and the tunes just flow, I think the lads need to do a live album for "Seacht"!
It's there, that the true Lúnasá sound takes flight. If you get the chance to see them, run, fly, crawl, just get there! and make sure you scream for Kevin to play the bodhrán, he is unbelievable. His whistle and flute playing are of course always outstanding, but on the skin..... Jaw dropping!
When I saw them they had a couple of sets with Cillian, Seán and Kevin on whistles and that, is just magic.

excellent as usual, but..........2006-07-04

Lúnasa made the best sound ever heard in celtic music, but in some way I find this new work a bit routine.

Wonderful!.......2006-05-01

i have always loved lunasa and their sixth cd does not fail to impress me! some wonderful and fresh new tunes grace this cd. i only hope they keep up the great work!

Average customer rating:

A perfect album from start to finish
Electrifying Not Electric
Enjoyable and Listenable
I cant believe my ears
Hands-down Lunasa's best

Otherworld
Lúnasa
Manufacturer: Green Linnet
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Merry Sisters of Fate
Sé
Lúnasa
Redwood
The Kinnitty Sessions

ASIN: B00001ZSTG
Release Date: 1999-10-12

Tracks:

Goodbye Miss Goodavich/Rosie's Reel
The Floating Crowbar/McGlinchey's/The Almost Reel
The Butlers Of Glen Avenue/Sliabh Russell/Cathal McConnell's
January Snows/Laura Lynn Cunningham
The Miller Of Drohan
Dr. Gilbert/Devils Of Dublin/Black Pat's
Autumn Child/Heaton Chapel
Stolen Apples
Taylor Bar, 4am/Ceol Na Mara
Lafferty's/Crock Of Gold/Lady Birr/Abbey Reel
O' Caralon's Welcome/Rolling In The Barrel

Amazon.com

Taking their name from an ancient Celtic harvest festival, Lúnasa are a veritable dream team of Irish musicians whose thrilling groove is found courtesy of former members of the Waterboys and Sharon Shannon's band, on cello, bowed upright bass, and acoustic guitar. Melodies, both poignant and frolicsome, soar on the exceptional wings of fiddle, flute, whistles, and Uilleann pipes. From the warm belly of Celtic tradition, the quartet (rounded out by guest players and piper-whistler Cillian Vallely, a touring member) radiates outward, incorporating elements of jazz improvisation as it swings low and wide, high and tight, delving wholeheartedly into each piece's unique rhythmic pulse. Otherworld, in the unprecedented vernacular of Lúnasa, is nothing short of astonishing. --Paige La Grone

Customer Reviews:

A perfect album from start to finish.......2006-08-09

I think you'd be hard pressed to find an album with fewer flaws than Otherworld. Lunasa really delivers on this album and, with the addition of the flute playing Kevin Crawford, really define a modern sound that takes Irish traditional music into the next century.

Traditionalists might gripe about the use of the bass, but I think it really adds depth to the tunes.

If you're either a seasoned veteran or a new fan of Irish traditional music, you'd be doing yourself a huge favor by picking up this album.

Electrifying Not Electric.......2006-05-15

Attempts to drag Irish music into the modern world have regularly involved the welding of heavily-amplified instruments and punk sensibilities onto traditional songs and tunes. The results have often been irksome. In saying that Lunasa play Irish music in a contemporary style, it shouldn't be feared that here is another "weld job".

For a start this Irish quintet boasts some award winning traditional musicians, including fiddler Sean Smyth and flute player Kevin Crawford. Yes there is bass, but it comes in the form of upright (double) bass from former Waterboys member Trevor Hutchinson. His thrumming, highly syncopated style adds a unique flavour to the band. But rhythm seems to exude from them all, whether the percussive acoustic guitar of Donogh Hennessy, the flitting flute of Kevin Crawford or the driving uilleann pipes and whistles of guests John McSherry or Mike McGoldrick.

While fast jigs, reels and hornpipes predominate, contrast is provided by some sweet slow airs and the occasional clever tempo variation within tunes. "Otherworld" offers an outstanding selection of instrumental Irish music that pulsates with life - electrifying without being electric.

Enjoyable and Listenable.......2005-09-30

Two summers ago, my wife and I rented a summer house in County Kerry, along the shore of the Iveragh peninsula. Of course, that meant that we had to eat many meals and drink many glasses of stout (my wife) and shots of Jameson's (me) in the local bars while we listened to local musicians and danced to them as well.

Neither of us were aficionados of Irish music until then. Coming from California, I equated 'Irish' music with the local "Celtic" groups at home that played a limpid New Age/folk pap --short on substance and no muscle at all --Ireland via Windham Hill, if you were.

A month in Ireland changed all that. In the pubs, we heard live, muscular music --it was energizing and great fun. We began experimenting with contemporary Irish recorded music --Christie Moore first, Hammy Hamilton, Con O'Drisceoll and Seamus Creigh, Mary Black (whom we heard live on our last night in Ireland), and, my favorite, KILA.

I left Ireland hooked on the music. Recently, I ordered three more albums by contemporary Irish groups: KILA: Lemonade and Buns --out of circulation, alas!; Lunasa: Otherworlds; and Sharon Shannon: Live in Galway.

In both Sharon Shannon's album and this one by Lunasa, I appreciate the verve that the musicians bring to the songs as well as the exceptionally high level of musical talent.

Lunasa is more adventurous and musically more diverse than Sharon Shannon, blending wood flute, guitar, bass or strings, and (occasionally) pipes. The best of the songs on this album--'Goodbye Miss Goodovich,' 'The Floating Crowbar'-- are exceptional music and every cut on this fine album pleases the ear. Sharon Shannon and her colleagues are more traditional but equally virtuosic. They provide first-rate foot-tapping versions of traditional Irish music.

If I were to differentiate among them, I would say that Lunasa and KILA are the groups I would most like to listen to on my iPod, and Sharon Shannon's is the group I'd hire if I were hosting a dance or party.

Lunasa is outstanding music. It satisfied me both intellectually and viscerally. Why isn't most American pop music as satisfying?

David Keymer
Modesto CA

I cant believe my ears.......2005-03-18

omg. I love all styles of music. Especially screamo and hardcore. But wow. This music
It touches you. I am going to get all the hardcore kids at my school hooked on this music. wow.

Hands-down Lunasa's best.......2005-01-07

Though the first album of theirs I actually purchased was their brilliant debut, the first taste of this incredible group I ever had was the tenth track of this album, the explosive "Lafferty's/Crock of Gold/Lady Birr/Abbey Reel". Years after that first sampling of their outstanding musicianship and innovative arrangements, I now own all their albums save "Kinnitty Sessions", and "Otherworld" outshines them all. While all of Lunasa's arrangements are great fun to listen to, I find they are truly spectacular when it comes to faster pieces: jigs, reels, etc. "Otherworld" has no shortage of these. The group has great talent for beginning with slow airs and building the music up to driving finishes, as seen in tracks 4 and 11. You really can't go wrong with this band if you prefer instrumental music with a traditional Irish flavor, but "Otherworld" clearly demonstrates the pinnacle of their talent and musicianship. Bravo to Lunasa!

Average customer rating:

The finest celtic instrumental group - period
this is great
Buy This Album Today!!!!!!!!!!
A Stunning Albumn
Celtic music at its best!

The Merry Sisters of Fate
Lúnasa
Manufacturer: Green Linnet
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Otherworld
Sé
Redwood
Lúnasa
The Kinnitty Sessions

ASIN: B00005K9SK
Release Date: 2001-06-05

Tracks:

Aoibhneas
Donogh And Mike's
Killarney Boys Of Pleasure
The Merry Sisters Of Fate
Inion Ni Scannlain
Casu
Paistin Fionn
The Minor Bee
Scully's
Return From Fingal
Morning Nightcap

Amazon.com

Unlike most contemporary Irish bands, Lúnasa has no singer, preferring instead to focus on purely instrumental music. But on The Merry Sisters of Fate, the playing of flautist Kevin Crawford, fiddler Sean Smyth, and uilleann piper Cillian Vallely is so lyrical you hardly notice the lack. The three lead players are supported by guitarist Donogh Hennesy and bassist Trevor Hutchinson, who create a sound that is rhythmically supple and harmonically complex while still being deeply rooted in tradition. All members of the band are topnotch players, but what sets Lúnasa apart from other Irish bands is the inventiveness of arrangements that skillfully weave the sounds of such nontraditional instruments as lap steel guitar, clarinet, and harmonium with the standard flutes, fiddles, and pipes. The sound that Lúnasa creates is undeniably modern, but they play these old jigs and reels with a combination of grace and conviction that will have even the most hidebound purist itching to get up and dance. --Michael Simmons

Customer Reviews:

The finest celtic instrumental group - period.......2005-12-02

Lunasa has an amazing sound that far exceeds that of any other celtic instrumental group I have ever heard. They bring a fresh perspective to the genre that retains its old dance music roots but adds a dimension that makes for excellent listening. Perhaps it is their energy and intensity that makes them singular; perhaps it is their passion and the beauty they imbue their music with. It certainly has something to do with their sometimes nontraditional bass lines that drive the music and the harmonic structure that gives it depth; the music is always intriguing and engaging! It is a combination of these things that makes Lunasa the best. You must listen to this group if you are a fan of Leahy, Altan, Natalie McMaster, and other groups that produce fine instrumental music rooted in celtic tradition - Lunasa blows the rest away.

this is great.......2004-05-10

this is one of my favorite cds of all time. I am a huge fan of cultural music, mostly Celtic. Every cd collection needs a copy of the cd. Erin go brach!

Buy This Album Today!!!!!!!!!!.......2004-02-01

This is by far my favorite Irish instrumental band. In the world of traditional Irish music there are great players, great sessions, but few players mix together as well as Lunasa.

A Stunning Albumn.......2004-01-11

This is a stunning albumn and would be a wonderful addition for anyone who collects Celtic music. Lunasa is an instrumental group with highly talented musicians. The sets are beautiful and unusually well crafted. There is plenty of variety to keep your interest throughout the albumn.

Celtic music at its best!.......2002-04-02

The first time I heard Lunasa was around St. Patrick's Day; my dad bought tickets to see them. Almost instantly, I was caught up in the rich harmonies coming from the stage. The music can fill you with such feeling. It sends messages: about sadness, happiness, or just having fun! Songs such as Inion Ni Scannlain is beautiful; it lifts you up. And Morning Nightcap is quite a toe-tapper! These musicians truly know how to play good music.

Average customer rating:

Fantastic celtic music!
Downright Amazing ...
Solid Irish instrumentals
Lively Irish traditional music
Re-release of a Classic

Lúnasa
Lúnasa
Manufacturer: Compass Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Otherworld
The Kinnitty Sessions
The Merry Sisters of Fate
Sé
Redwood

ASIN: B00005LN2I
Release Date: 2002-02-12

Tracks:

Eanair
Feabhra
Marta
Aibreann
Bealtaine
Meitheamh
Iuil
Mean Fomhair
Deireadh Fomhair
Mi Na Samhna
Mi Na Nollag
Jacky Molard's/The Hunter's Purse

Amazon.com

Lunasa introduced a new rhythmic complexity and harmonic sophistication to traditional Irish music on their self-titled 1997 debut, which Compass Records is now reissuing for the first time in America. The trio of fiddler Sean Smyth, flautist Mike McGoldrick, and uilleann piper John McSherry supply the melody, and they negotiate the twists and turns of the intricate jigs and reels with a technical virtuosity and sense of joy that recalls the legendary Bothy Band. But as good as these three are, the heart and soul of the band is the rhythm section of bassist Trevor Hutchinson and guitarist Donogh Hennessy. Together they explore the subtle rhythmic variations and harmonic possibilities implied by the tunes. They don't impose a new order on the old melodies, but instead bring out a richness that was always there. Although the recording quality is not quite up to the standards of their later releases, the addition of a bonus live track recorded in 1996 and the sheer exuberance of their playing make this an essential recording by one the most important Irish bands to emerge in the 1990s. --Michael Simmons

Customer Reviews:

Fantastic celtic music!.......2006-03-20

This instrumental album is one of a kind. It blends traditional irish instruments with newer harmonies to make a blend of terrific music. A must buy for any folk or celtic music fan.

Downright Amazing ..........2003-10-14

This is the excellent debut album from possibly Ireland's hottest music act these days. Irish music with the perfect blend between tradition and the new, definitely jazz-influenced with their impeccable arrangements and transitions. This is the most colorful, lively and passionate Irish music CD I know of in existence. The bass and guitar and bodhran provide the driving backbone I find missing in most celtic music I've explored. Oh, and for you Uillean pipe fans ... I think there's more splendid piping on this their debut than any other Lunasa release. True virtuosos, these guys are amazing to see in concert (as of Autumn 2002). Very friendly and down-to-earth, as well!! (FYI: This is completely instrumental.)

Solid Irish instrumentals.......2003-02-26

An all-instrumental album featuring some of the new up-and-comers in Ireland's trad scene, including members of Sharon Shannon's band, and the Waterboys. Lunasa shed most of the severity of old-style jigs-and-reels, mixing in a sly melodic bounce without sacrificing their traditional cred. No synthesizers or sampling here, just a creative new approach to the classic Celtic style. The piping, in particular, has a fluidity and expessiveness that's a delight to hear... Even if (like myself) you're not that much into Celtic instrumentals, this might be an album you'd want to check out.

Lively Irish traditional music.......2002-07-15

The music is pure Irish dance music, but with a driving guitar backup and bass rather than a drum. The tunes are traditional, but the harmony is a bit more modern and the rhythms more syncopated than 50's style ceili bands. Some noteable tracks are Feabhra, which starts out with the Brenda Stubbert reel and moves into a mixed meter tune which sounds almost Balkan, and Aibreann, an air with a lush, beautiful low-whistle duet. Meitheamh is my favorite, though, a driving traditional reel that features each soloist in turn. If you're a fan of traditional Irish instrumental music, pick this up - you'll be glad you did.

Re-release of a Classic.......2002-06-23

Lúnasa can best be described as the Bothy Band of this era. But whereas the Bothy Band's sound had more of a rough-and-ready feel, Lúnasa's sound is highly polished, with graceful harmonies and rhythms that swing.

This is their first album with Mike McGoldrick and John McSherry (since replaced by the super duo of Kevin Crawford and Cillian Vallely), re-released with a live version of "Colonel Frazer" replacing the original studio one, and an extra track consisting of a Breton tune and an Irish reel played almost with a Breton rhythm. For those of you not familiar with Lúnasa, their lineup consists of uillean pipes, fiddle, and flute, and a rhythm section of upright-bass and guitar. There is no singing, so if you're a fan of vocals you might be disappointed, but the sounds these guys produce are amazing and make you want to get up and dance. This album has live and studio-recorded tracks, but Lúnasa's playing is so smooth you won't be able to tell the difference until you hear the roar of the crowd afterward. Even if you own the original release of this album, the extra track makes another purchase worth it.

Lúnasa is the band I play when I am trying to introduce someone to Irish music. If you are only recently getting into Irish traditional dance music, I can think of no better band with which to start.

Redwood
Average customer rating:

This awesome album grows stronger the more you listen to it!

High class

Lunasa continues to inspire

Beware - not "band approved"

Redwood
Lúnasa
Manufacturer: Green Linnet
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Otherworld

Sé

The Merry Sisters of Fate

The Kinnitty Sessions

Lúnasa

ASIN: B00009KUAH
Release Date: 2003-07-14

Tracks:

Cregg's Pipes
Welcome Home
Harp And Shamrock
Fest Noz
Spoil The Dance
A Stor Mo Croi
Dublin To Dingle
Lady Ellen
Cotati Nights
Two-Fifty To Vigo
Temple Hiill

Amazon.com

Lunasa's past three albums have sometimes dabbled with outside influences, but Redwood is really proof of how much life there is in these traditional renderings of Irish tunes. Recorded in Northern California during a break in its 2002 tour, the instrumental quintet sounds as a comfortable as an old pair shoes here, but ones with plenty of support left in them--the musicians easily sprint through "Temple Hill" at a pace that barely leaves room to breathe. "Harp And Shamrock" is lovely duet between flutist Kevin Crawford and fiddler Sean Smyth (both acclaimed in their own right as players), where Crawford opens with a long solo passage before he hands the song off to Smyth, who solos to the conclusion as the rest of the band accompanies him. The arrangement is a simple idea, but one that's well executed with dramatic results, which is actually something that can be said about all of Redwood. --Tad Hendrickson

Customer Reviews:

This awesome album grows stronger the more you listen to it!.......2004-08-10

I have all 5 Lunasa albums and this was the last one I bought. Initially I played it and thought that the tunes were "also rans" but of course well performed and recorded, this is now my favourite album by far now. Like some fine vintage wine or whisky this album gets better the more you listen to it. Georgeous melodies and masterful playing make this a must buy for enthusiasts of this type of music, you won't regret it.

High class.......2004-06-03

The music fan from Boulder who reviewed this album to say it was not "band-approved" didn't look carefully enough. The CD is actually the same as they sell on their own website - the dispute with Green Linnet seems to have been only over the artwork.

Basically so far there's no duds from this classy Irish band, so if you have one of their albums you know what to expect from the others. They're excellent musicians and they have a flair for interesting, if occasionally quirky, arrangements. Of the five albums so far, my own top choices would be this one and the first self-titled album. Redwood, like the debut album, flows along effortlessly and just makes you feel good. What more could you want?

Lunasa continues to inspire.......2003-12-03

The main claim to fame of Irish traditional band Lúnasa is their ability to blend trad songs with their own compositions so that the average listener cannot tell the difference between the two. This tradition continues on their 2003 release, Redwood (their last for the Green Linnet label after a long struggle).

Lúnasa say in the liner notes of the CD that their intention was to capture the live experience of their tour onto disc, so they took some time off in February, 2002, to record these tracks. I have to say they've done the job because I can feel the gasp for life in each breath taken between flute blows on "Harp and Shamrock." Ten of the eleven tracks on Redwood (with the sole exception of "Two-Fifty to Vigo" are composed of medleys of multiple reels--which compositions by the band members blended in inconspicuously--and the arrangements make for cohesive listening, with each track seeming like one song.

Now I have to admit here my minimal education in Celtic music--I'm generally more acquainted with Celtic rock like Boiled in Lead or the Saw Doctors. However, Lúnasa's Redwood makes me want to increase my knowledge--at the very least of their music. Their virtuosity and their ability to blend their instruments into one sound, make for a fascinating experience that simply makes me want to get up and dance--or, if that's not appropriate, at least to tap my foot.

Beware - not "band approved".......2003-11-16

I was recently browseing the Lunasa site and found they had a new albulm. Joy! Lunasa is one of the driving forces in modern Celtic music IMHO, so I was all ready to rush out and get copy from Amazon. However, the band also mentions (on their site, http://www.lunasa.ie) that they have split from Green Linnet, and that the version of albulm from them is not as they wanted. They offer an "artist approved" version for sale from their web site. I suggest you get that instead, at least till Amazon stocks it.

Fits of Passion - High Spirited Celtic Captured By Starbucks

Average customer rating:

Fits of Passion - High Spirited Celtic Captured By Starbucks
Natalie MacMaster, Altan, Mary Jane Lamond, The Pogues Traffic , Lunasa, Karan Casey, Niamh Parsons, Solas, Old Blind Dog Kila , and seamus Egan, Clannad, Patrick Street Capercaillie
Manufacturer: BMG
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
ASIN: B000NP2BU4

Average customer rating:

Marvellous!
Festive, feisty and full of fun!
Not a Christmas album
No christmas in this ceilidh
Good music for any time of year

A Thistle & Shamrock Christmas Ceilidh
Altan , Lunasa , Capercaillie , Tannahill Weavers , and Cherish the Ladies
Manufacturer: Green Linnet
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

On Christmas Night
Comfort & Joy: A Christmas Celtic Sojourn
Threads of Time
Sé
Woman of the House

ASIN: B00004XSIH
Release Date: 2000-11-07

Tracks:

The Snowy Path - Altan
At It Again - Andy M. Stewart/Manus Lunny
Happy One-Step/Green Willis - The House Band
Sevens/Michael Kennedy's/The Cup Of Tea - Liz Carroll
Puirt A Beul/Snug In A Blanket - Capercaillie
I Saw Three Ships - John Renbourn
Garcon A Marier/Orgies Nocturnes/Dans Fisel - Touchstone
Maneo Da Ulla/Foliada De Padrenda - Milladoiro
Ceilidh Funk - Phil Cunningham
Jenny Picking Cockles/An Gabhran/Jack Keane's Reel - Patrick Street
The Cat Rambles To The Child's Saucepan/Maire O'Keefe/Harry Bradshaw - Cherish The Ladies
Reconciliation - Niamh Parsons & The Loose Connections
Ballavanich - Wolfstone
Goodbye Miss Goodavich/Rosie's Reel - Lunasa
Genevieve's Waltz - Manus McGuire
Auld Lang Syne - Tannahill Weavers
The Moving Cloud - Kips Bay

Amazon.com

Fiona Ritchie, the host of National Public Radio's popular Celtic music show The Thistle & Shamrock, says she chose tunes for Christmas Ceilidh that reminded her of the village holiday socials she attended as a child. She must have lived in a remarkably cosmopolitan part of Scotland because along with the assortment of dance tunes and songs played by musicians like Manus McGuire, Lunasa, and Altan, the selections include "Maneo da Ulla/Foliada de Parenda" by the Spanish group Milladoiro and "Ceilidh Funk," a synth-based dance tune by the Scottish accordion player Phil Cunningham. And for a CD that prominently features the word Christmas in its title, there is almost no holiday music here at all, except for "I Saw Three Ships," a guitar solo by English guitarist John Renbourn, and the Tannahill Weavers' version of "Auld Lang Syne." Ritchie does include a nice essay about a typical Christmas ceilidh and a Dundee cake recipe in the liner notes, but overall this is one of the very few holiday CDs you can play year round. --Michael Simmons

Customer Reviews:

Marvellous!.......2005-01-15

There is something about playing a disc of Celtic Christmas music that brings the whole spirit of the season closer to home; and Fiona Ritchie has done a marvellous job putting together this disc. She has picked out her favourite Green Linnet selections in order to echo the spirit of her village's Christmas Ceilidh. Fiona is the host and producer of National Public Radio's The Thistle and Shamrock, which is one of the most popular and longest running music programs on public radio in the States.

You won't find anything here to disappoint you, but much to put you in the mood for trimming the tree, wrapping gifts, and of course for baking those yummy Christmas goodies for family and friends. In fact, included is a recipe for Mrs. Walkinshaw's Dundee Cake! I'll be trying this one out next week!

With 17 different tracks and artists I could be easily driven to distraction trying to figure out which three to share with you. The entire disc is that good! So I went with one which has some familiar history, and then one of the two traditional Christmas pieces which are recognizable world-wide. And I had to choose the one which stood out above all others for the final pick. So without further ado - here we go!

Andy M. Stewart and Manus Lunny give us a delightful track entitled At It Again. It is a humorous tale, believe me, and nobody could deliver it like this talented artist, once the renowned vocalist for Silly Wizard. And when you join this incredible voice with the Uillean pipes, well, you have the beginnings of something compelling and passion filled! This track will bring a smile to your heart and a laugh to your lips!

John Renbourn provides a seasonal staple with I Saw Three Ships. Johnís a very gifted guitarist, and shows his stuff with this piece, embellishing the chorus with extra notes and picking the melody out quite clearly. I could sit and listen to him play for hours, but all too soon the piece is over.

The Moving Cloud by Kips Bay is the piece which leapt out and stayed in my mind with each and every listen. It is taken from a live performance, and the disc Into the Light. This group is incredibly unique, well gifted, and very diverse in its background! Front man Pat Kilbride is amazing on the guitar, as is button accordionist John Whelan. Steve Missal once played in Ted Nugent's band, and was also Billy Idol's drummer. Richard Lindsey is a stellar world beat bassist, and Kenny Landrum is a keyboardist with flying fingers! I love reels, but this one is supercharged!

This is a spectacular taste of Celtic talent and will add much to your festive spirit! From Altan to Wolfstone, you'll find it here, as well as the included tale of a village Ceilidh. Treat yourself this Christmas; you'll be glad you did!

Review Originally Posted at LinearReflections.com

Festive, feisty and full of fun!.......2003-05-25

Don't expect traditional Christmas carols here, or (unfortunately) any narrations by The Thistle & Shamrock's Fiona Ritchie, but nonetheless, this is an enjoyable collection of boisterous party music and a few wistful winter recollections from artists on the Green Linnet label. Featured is an all-star cast at their best: Altan, Andy M. Stewart and Manus Lunny, the House Band, Liz Carroll, Capercaillie, John Renbourn, Touchstone, Milladoiro, Phil Cunningham, Patrick Street, Cherish the Ladies, Niamh Parsons and the Loose Connections, Wolfstone, Lunasa, Manus McGuire, the Tannahill Weavers, and Kips Bay. Radio host Fiona Ritchie's selections are always well-chosen, and the tracks on this album are no exception. And while we don't hear her voice, the liner notes do contain a lengthy narrative penned by Fiona, as well as a recipe for Mrs. Walkinshaw's Dundee Cake. Beannachtai na Feile!

Not a Christmas album.......2001-01-23

I was looking forward to this album, but as with many Celtic Christmas albums I have purchased, this was a major diappointment. It didn't particularly have anything to do with Christmas. The album title and list of artists made me think that this would include traditional Christmas songs from the Irish and Scottish traditions. I would love to find such an album. This definitely was not it. On the other hand, unlike my other Christmas music, it is something I can play year-round as well as at Christmas time. I just would have liked to know that before I bought the album.

No christmas in this ceilidh.......2000-12-12

I was sorely disappointed by this album, which is a fine collection of Celtic music, mostly instrumental, but I was expecting an album with the word "Christmas" in it to have some, I don't know, Christmas music? There ain't none. It has a misleading title.

Good music for any time of year.......2000-12-07

I read a postive recommendation of this in the paper so my wife got it for me for St. Nick's Day. It's very nice though as the online review mentions, there is very little in the music itself that refers to Christmas. In any case, the music is lovely and for anyone who likes the Celtic style.

Average customer rating:

their best album yet (in my opinion)
Good, but not excellent like the first two CDs
Another Great One
Another classy offering
It's live, but you'd never know it

The Kinnitty Sessions
Lúnasa
Manufacturer: Compass Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Folk | Styles | Music

Irish Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

Celtic Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

General | Live Albums | Folk | Styles | Music

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General | Celtic | International | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B0001EFVK4
Release Date: 2004-03-02

Tracks:

Stolen Purse
Ballyogan
Punch
The Dimmers
Island Paddy
Sean In The Fog
Bulgarian Rock
The Wounded Hussar
The Walrus
Maids In The Kitchen
Tie The Bonnet

Amazon.com

It didn't take long for Lunasa to conquer the Celtic music scene, sealing the deal with a ton of strong notices for its self-titled debut Lunasa in 1997. Since then the band has established itself as a group of players' players who can roar through a winding jig or reel without bruising it. With the unobtrusive upright bass as the only tweaking of the tradition, the band sticks to such time-honored Celtic instruments as flute, whistle, bodhran, fiddle and acoustic guitar -- the lightning playing of flutist Kevin Crawford and violinist Sean Smyth stand out here. The band again draws upon traditional reels, for the most part, but "Ballogan" is a gentle and noteworthy original from Crawford. Other highlights are the giddy jig "Maids In The Kitchen," the melancholy "The Dimmers," and the flute-driven "Walrus." Recorded live before a small invited audience at the supposedly haunted Kinnitty Castle in Ireland, the only scary thing about the session is the top-flight musicianship. --Tad Hendrickson

Customer Reviews:

their best album yet (in my opinion).......2005-10-12

I have all of Lunasa's CDs, and they are all very good, but in my opinion this is their best recording yet. Others may disagree, but there seems to be an energy in their playing here that I thought was a bit lacking in their previous 2 albums, good though they were. Maybe the live nature of this recording accounts for that. The only track that I am not so keen on is 'The Wounded Hussar', but that is just a personal preference - I'm not a great fan of pipe solos. The only criticism I have of this album is that it is too short!

Good, but not excellent like the first two CDs.......2004-11-25

With all due respect to the fine musicians of the current incarnation of Lunasa, the original group and the first two albums are simply a hard act to follow in terms of sheer energy and creative arrangements. The Kinnity Sessions stand out as good, tradional Irish Music. However, I have to take exception to a featured reviewer saying they have conquered the Celtic Music genre. Most Irish would pause on the word "conquer" and give you a typical "Pog mo thoin!" (don't ask me what they want you to kiss). Lunasa has good Irish reviews that should be used with credibility for the purpose here. There are many different styles and tastes in Irish Traditional Music and they are all legitimate. If anyone wants to hear the best Lunasa by my standard (rhythm driven creative arrangements), it isn't this album, despite the fact that this is a good CD with some excellent tracks (especially tracks 2, 10 and 11). Try "Lunasa" and "Otherworld" for comparison.

Another Great One.......2004-06-17

What can I say, Lunasa never ceases to impress. The musicianship and song compilation on this album are true Lunasa caliber. However, If you've yet to hear Lunasa, I think its best to start with Merry Sisters or Otherworld. Of all of Irish Trad, Lunsasa is consistently the very best in my opinion. Some cuts falter here and there, but I have never encountered a more skillful and talented band. That said, I do have three minor complaints for Knitty: 1) I can't say I love "Wounded Hussar." Pipe solo's are fun, but it's too much for a whole song. 2) Knitty, as a whole, lacks some of the creative meanders and flair of the earlier albums. This is surprising, as it is a live record. 3) Lastly, and this is pretty small, I wished they had mastered the tracks a bit better. The stereo separation isn't nearly as artistic as the other albums. This can be attributed to the live nature, however. So, all in all, another gifted release. If you don't have Knitty, but have the other CD's, buy this one. If you don't have any Lunsasa, start on another one (but you really can't go wrong).

Another classy offering.......2004-05-26

Having compared this new release from Lunasa to their debut self-titled album and their "Otherworld", I find the group continuing to deliver high quality traditional Irish folk music with zest, panache and a touch of eccentricity in the arrangements. My personal preference is still for the first album, airy and fresh, featuring the amazing Mike McGoldrick on flute and John McSherry on uilleann pipes. On this new album, their fifth, the auto-pilot appears to be creeping in, but it hardly detracts from the wondrous tighter than tight playing, the vigorously buoyant rhythms and the light and tuneful melodies that propel the album forward with gusto.

Kevin Crawford took over from Mike McGoldrick a long time ago and his very fine musicianship is again on display here. Uilleann pipes are played by Cillian Vallely, a deft and deeply sensitive player if there ever was one, as evidenced by his solo "The Wounded Hussar". Fiddler Sean Smyth is as sprightly as ever and solid support as always comes from guitarist Donagh Hennessy (x-Sharon Shannon Band) who provides the underlying drive and bassist Trevor Hutchinson (x-Sharon Shannon Band, x-Waterboys) who adds an exquisite finishing touch.

This recording was made in Kinnitty Castle in County Offaly, Ireland live in front of a small audience, a quiet one at that. All applause has been removed, but the performances are as you would hear them on stage, although the live feel of a concert can never be fully realised in a recording. And they are fantastic on stage!

The excitement though is certainly tangible and the virtuosity a joy to behold, witness for example Kevin's classy whistling on "Island Paddy" against an unusually funky guitar backdrop. The dance medleys are sometimes unusually mixed - "The Stolen Purse" for example jumps abruptly from jig to reel in midstream, while "Sean in the Fog" changes from air to jig. Tempos also vary enough from track to track so there's good variety in the pacing and intensity. The tunes are mostly traditional, the rest being either original or from the pens of Charlie Lennon, Kevin Burke and J.M. Rankin among others.

Overall, perhaps not a stand-out album in a high-class discography, but certainly another immaculate and hugely enjoyable one.

It's live, but you'd never know it.......2004-04-13

I don't want anyone to be discouraged by my 4/5 star rating. Under normal circumstances, this would be a five-star review with the fullest enthusiasm. Lunasa has one of the most unique and impressive sounds in Celtic music, and this album is just a continuation of that great tradition. I am continually amazed by their music, as everyone should be.

The reason "The Kinnitty Sessions" gets only four stars from me is simply that I was so excited by the claim on the back cover that the album was "recorded before an audience of invited guests inside the supposedly haunted walls of Ireland's Kinnitty Castle" and displays the "the storming intensity of a concert environment," only to discover no audience noise whatsoever. I mean, I was waiting for 40 minutes to hear even some polite applause, yet got nothing. The sound also seems a bit to perfect to be recorded in anything but a nicely prepared accoustic environment, much less a castle. Not that I'm accusing Lunasa of false advertising, but if you're going to claim a concert setting, let it SOUND like a concert, imperfections and all.

Go buy this album, regardless. I just didn't want anyone to be disappointed like I was!

Hands Across the Water - A Benefit for the Children of the Tsunami
Average customer rating:
Hands Across the Water - A Benefit for the Children of the Tsunami
Oisin McAuley (Danu), and Darrell Scott with Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh , Jon Randall with Mairtin O'Connor and Alison Brown , Karen Matheson with The Duhks and Bryan Sutton , Andrea Zonn with Flook , Tim O'Brien with Lunasa , Sharon Shannon with Jackson Browne , Solas with Mindy Smith , John Prine and Fiona Prine with Dermot Byrne , Beth Nielsen Chapman with Michael McGoldrick and Donald Shaw , and Paul Brady with Rodney Crowell
Manufacturer: The Acoustic Canvas
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Continental Europe | Europe | International | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B000GHSS10

Product Description

Hands Across the Water - A Benefit For The Children Of The Tsunami // 1. This Beggar's Heart - Darrell Scott with Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh, Oisin McAuley (Danu), and Paul Rodden 2. Get Through It - Jon Randall with Mairtin O'Connor and Alison Brown 3. Ae Fond Kiss - Karen Matheson with The Duhks and Bryan Sutton 4. Standing Still - Andrea Zonn with Flook 5. Fair And Tender Ladies - Tim O'Brien with Lunasa 6. A Man Of Constant Sorrow - Sharon Shannon with Jackson Browne 7. Reasonland - Solas with Mindy Smith 8. 'Til A Tear Becomes A Rose - John Prine and Fiona Prine with Dermot Byrne 9. Be Still My Soul - Beth Nielsen Chapman with Michael McGoldrick and Donald Shaw 10. 40 Shades Of Green - Paul Brady with Rodney Crowell 11. Part Of Your History - Blue Merle with Pauline Scanlon 12. Let's Heal - Altan with Vince Gill 13. An Occasional Song - Cerys Matthews with John Jorgenson and Stuart Duncan 14. Cumberland Plateau - John Cowan with The Brock McGuire Band 15. This World's Family - Jim Lauderdale with Maura O'Connell 16. In The Sweet By And By - Jerry Douglas with Ciaran Tourish