The Best of British Folk

1. Streets of London - Ralph McTell

2. Net Hauling Song - Ian Campbell Folk Group

3. Drag Queen Blues - Richard Digance

4. Join Us in Our Game

5. Day at the Seaside - John Renbourn

6. Market Song - Pentangle

7. Judy - John Renbourn

8. Róisín Dubh - The Dubliners

9. Red's Favourite - John Renbourn

10. Confusion - Gordon Giltrap

11. Lover for All Seasons - Mike Oldfield, Sally Oldfield

12. If It Was'nae for Your Wellies - Billy Connolly

13. Willoughby's Farm - Ralph McTell

14. Noah and the Rabbit - John Renbourn

15. Candy Man - John Renbourn

16. Shoe Shine Boy - Humblebums

17. Ive's Horizon - Gordon Giltrap

18. Travel Away - Billy Connolly

19. Pavanna (Anna Bannana) - John Renbourn

20. Off to Dublin in the Green - The Dubliners

See all 24 tracks on this disc

The Best of British Folk,Various Artists,St. Clair Records,British,British Folk,British Folk-Rock,Int'l & World Music,Pop,Singer/Songwriter,World Music

Average customer rating: Irish Music Love this CD! A blast from the past The best of the early Chieftains It doesn't get any better than this

The Best of the Chieftains The Chieftains Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD British Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Irish Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Celtic Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Ireland | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Celtic | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: Irish Heartbeat The Bells of Dublin Long Black Veil The Essential Chieftains The Best Of The Irish Rovers [Remaster] ASIN: B000060P2Z Release Date: 2002-02-19

Tracks:

1. Up Against The Buachalawns
2. Boil The Breakfast Early
3. Friel's Kitchen
4. No.6 The Coombe
5. O'Sullivan's March
6. Sea Image
7. An Speic Seoigheach
8. The Dogs Among The Bushes
9. The Job Of Journeywork
10. Oh! The Breeches Full Of Stitches
11. Chase Around The Windmill: Toss The Feathers/Ballinasloe Fair/Cailleach An Airgid/Cuil Aodha Slide/The Pretty Girl
12. The Wind That Shakes The Barley/The Reel With The Beryle

Amazon.com

The tracks on The Best of the Chieftains are drawn from The Chieftains 7, The Chieftains 8, and Boil the Breakfast Early--three of the band's recordings from the late 1970s. This was the period when former Bothy Band and Planxty flautist Matt Molloy and vocalist/bodhran player Kevin Cunniffe joined up and finally fulfilled Paddy Maloney's vision of what the band should sound like. It also marks the last time the Chieftains recorded pure, unadulterated traditional Irish music. Not long after making these albums, the band set off on a new career that has included numerous movie and TV soundtracks, collaborations with pop stars of various stripes, and guest appearances with symphony orchestras. Although some purists decry the band's later attempts at crossover, the near perfection of tracks such as the exquisitely performed suite of dance tunes "Chase Around the Windmill" show that the Chieftains had taken the old tunes about as far as they could go. The group may have gone on to make better-selling records, but they never topped the traditional grace and charm of the songs on The Best of the Chieftains. --Michael Simmons

Customer Reviews:

Irish Music.......2007-05-14

If you are going to have an Irish party, this is the best music to have. The music is varied, jigs, reels and knee slapping songs that liven up any event and get you dancing.

Love this CD!.......2006-02-08

I love the Chieftains and I love this CD. I love it so much, I using a great many of the songs for the Prelude for my wedding.

A blast from the past.......2004-04-06

The title of this album is rather deceptive: it's not a selection from the Chieftains' entire catalog of recordings, but instead from the 3 albums (7, 8, and 9) that they put out on the Columbia label in the late 70's. That said, it's a worthy addition to anyone's Irish music library: it showcases the band at the pivotal point when they underwent major personnel changes and began to expand into less traditional ventures such as film scores. I've owned the three albums in question for years (and bought this one because the old vinyl was wearing out); this selection includes most of my favorite tracks from those albums, and shows what a solid, spirited, high-quality band they were from the start. (But it's instructive to compare the flute solos in the "Chase Around the Windmill" set with those from the earlier albums: with all due respect to Michael Tubridey, I feel that the addition of Matt Molloy, with his thoughtful and beautifully phrased flute playing, gave the group much more depth.)

The best of the early Chieftains.......2003-11-27

The retro style of Paddy Moloney's hair on the cover of this disc is a good metaphor for this CD, a remastered 1970s recording incorporating the best tracks from three of the Chieftains' early LPs. As far as traditional Irish music goes, it's not the purest of the pure, but it shows how this group gave a new twist to their country's music before venturing into the equally exciting realm of television and film music. If you're a fan of the Chieftains' later work, you'll definitely love this CD -- it's not really all that different, just less programmatic and commercialized.

There are some really incredible tracks here, like "O'Sullivan's March", an old 18th-century military tune arranged for the entire band -- the flutes in the middle section preserve the wonderful old fife-like quality of the original song. "Sea Image" and "Speic Seoigheach", composed by Paddy Moloney himself, point toward the group's later development as a band blending a traditional feel into their own original compositions. And the rest of the tracks show exactly why these marvelous Irishmen were nominated for a Grammy over twenty years ago.

Five stars easily!

It doesn't get any better than this.......2003-01-26

This anthology is incredible. Irish traditional music just doesn't get any better than this! The selections are timeless, the orchestration is always perfect. Paddy Maloney's pipes and whistles really drive the music and the late great Derek Bell's brilliant Celtic harp playing is top-notch! Anyone who enjoys Irish traditional music should own this collection...preferably on CD!

Average customer rating: One new thing.................................. Good 90s Summary Fans can never be objective... sorry Fine as a bee's wing

Action Packed: Best of the Capitol Years Richard Thompson Manufacturer: Capitol ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD British Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Best of Richard & Linda Thompson: The Island Records Years Live from Austin, TX Shoot Out the Lights Rumor and Sigh Mock Tudor ASIN: B00005A9KU Release Date: 2001-03-27

Tracks:

1. Turning Off The Tide
2. Waltzing's For Dreamers
3. 1952 Vincent Black Lightning
4. I Misunderstood
5. I Feel So Good
6. Keep Your Distance
7. King Of Bohemia
8. I Can't Wake Up To Save My Life
9. Beeswing
10. The Ghost Of You Walks
11. Razor Dance (Voltage Enhanced)
12. Cold Kisses
13. Bathsheba Smiles
14. Cooksferry Queen
15. Uninhabited Man
16. Walking The Long Miles Home
17. Persuasion
18. Mr. Rebound
19. Fully Qualified To Be Your Man

Amazon.com essential recording

Eric Clapton had better marketing. That's the only way to explain why Richard Thompson isn't as famous as that other British guitar god. A brilliant, albeit subtle, guitar genius, Thompson writes wonderful songs that are sometimes rockin', sometimes haunting, and sometimes a little bit of both. And he presents them all in a voice that can only be called unique. Unlike most guitar heroes, Thompson is less based in the blues than he is in folk--dating back to his early years with the seminal Fairport Convention--but his has always been a folk music with bite and soul, adding things to the folk lexicon like rockabilly and zydeco. "Cooksferry Queen"--one of the 19 tracks on this compilation culled from the six albums Thompson released on Capitol between 1988 and 1999--features a guitar solo that's downright punk. Tracks like the semihit "I Feel So Good," "Razor Dance," and "Bathsheba Smiles" remain as exhilarating as anything you're apt to hear. Longtime fans will need to hear the three tracks previously unreleased on CD, including a new duet with son Teddy Thompson on "Persuasion" (co-written with Tim Finn) that is absolutely gorgeous. Ultimately, one longs for a box set that encompasses all eras (and labels) of this master's career, but Action Packed proves that the recent last third of it has been topnotch. --Bill Holdship

Customer Reviews:

One new thing.........................................2007-03-13

If you are a loyal RT fan and possess "Rumor and Sigh", "Mirror Blue" and all the rest perhaps the only reason you have to lay your hard earned down is "Persuasion" the only previously unreleased material in this collection. But what a reason; this is Richard and Teddy playing ,it singin' it, harmonisin' it and tellin' like it is. If you are not a die hard this is an excellent entry point all the classics are here Vincent Black Lightnin' ,Turning of the Tide ( a song for ex-wives everywhere) , I misunderstood (cosmic angst) The Ghost of You Walks and on and on.... superb guitar (a red fender never lets you down) & tight rhythm section(s) . There are many treasures on this album and then there is the incomporable Beeswing......... buy & enjoy.

Good 90s Summary.......2006-09-20

If there are low points in Richard Thompson's long and distinguished career, I've yet to hear them. While I'm not one of his devotees, I'd readily admit that all albums without exception, contain material other folk-blues purveyors would cry, if not die for. Yet the albums as entities are quirky, often jagged in their textures and tones. So, does a masterwork arise? Not for me, since,'Across a Crowded Room', or possibly, 'Hand of kindness' which brings me to this Capitol compilation which does beg the issues above. In short, it offers a terrific overview of a decade's worth of Thompson - Vincent, Beeswing, Razor Dance, Bathseba, Can't Wake Up...all sensational gems, which, given some interpretations by contemporary luminaries, still find their crucial edge in Thompson's shivering vocals.

Fans can never be objective..........2006-04-26

From the OBJECTIVE reviewer...to suggest Eric Clapton is more famous because of marketing mean some reviewer has too much wax in his ears. Richard isn't even close to the same league. Even as a "best of" it barely rises to the 3 star level.

sorry.......2005-05-22

i just don't like greatest hits much. i'm sure some of these songs are pretty good, but i'd have to say buy something like "shoot out the lights" instead.

Fine as a bee's wing.......2004-05-04

Some listeners may hassle over the selection, but this is a good grab for anybody who wants a single-disk survey of this phenomenal singer/songwriter/guitarist. I'd personally like to have "You Dream Too Much" on here too, but that doesnt make this collection any worse. The selections from You? Me? Us? are just right. Theres nothing wrong with the 3 new tracks either. The only problem is that Thompson's essential Capitol material exceeds the capacity of 1 CD. But if you need some RT in your collection, this is an excellent offering.

Average customer rating: A good sampler of Richard and Linda's early work Fans can never be objective... At The End of The Rainbow the babes found the nearest bridge Transcendent despair I've got this one on now.

The Best of Richard & Linda Thompson: The Island Records Years Richard and Linda Thompson Manufacturer: Fontana Island ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD British Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Action Packed: Best of the Capitol Years Shoot Out the Lights Sweet Warrior Live from Austin, TX Rumor and Sigh ASIN: B00004VW14 Release Date: 2000-08-01

Tracks:

1. Roll Over Vaughn Williams
2. The Poor Ditching Boy
3. When I Get To The Border
4. Withered And Died
5. I Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight
6. Down Where The Drunkards Roll
7. The End of the Rainbow
8. The Great Valerio
9. Hokey Pokey
10. Never Again
11. A Heart Needs a Home
12. For Shame Of Doing Wrong
13. Night Comes In
14. Beat The Retreat
15. Dimming Of The Day
16. Calvary Cross (Live)

Amazon.com

Richard Thompson earned the respect of fans for his guitar playing with Fairport Convention in the late 1960s. But it was the albums he made with his then-wife Linda in the early 1970s that gained him the reputation as one the premier songwriters to emerge from the British folk-rock scene. The songs on this 16-song collection are taken from the couple's first four albums together: Henry the Human Fly (actually a Richard Thompson solo record with Linda's background vocals), the classic I Want to See the Bright Lights Tonight, Hokey Pokey, and Pour Down Like Silver. Linda's slightly husky alto inspired some of Richard's sweetest melodies, such as "Dimming of the Day," "For Shame of Doing Wrong," and "Down Where the Drunkards Roll," even as their sometimes rocky relationship caused him to write some of his gloomiest lyrics. The words may sometimes paint a bleak view of human relations, but the beauty of Linda's voice and the perfection of Richard's guitar lines do an excellent job of lightening the heavy mood. --Michael Simmons

Customer Reviews:

A good sampler of Richard and Linda's early work.......2006-09-20

...and little more, in truth. (And I'm a big fan!) It's worth noting that, in the UK, Universal released this collection under the title The End of the Rainbow: An Introduction to Richard & Linda Thompson, because let's face it; an introduction is just what this is.

RT's solo '72 debut, Henry the Human Fly, is woefully underrepresented here; just "Roll Over Vaughan Williams" and "The Poor Ditching Boy," although these are certainly among his best songs. (For my part, I'd have added "Nobody's Wedding" and "The Angels Took My Racehorse Away.") And although all four of the studio albums represented within are now available on CD, it's very telling that HTHF was not remastered by Island. Instead, the independent (and quite excellent) British label Fledg'ling has done the remaster, without bonus tracks I might add. RT has nothing good to say about the Island remasters; given that it's really Universal (Island being a mere shadow of its former self these days) doing the job, I can't entirely blame him.

As others have mentioned, fully 60% of I Want to See the Bright Lights Tonight is represented here; Bright Lights was R&LT's masterpiece, however, so it's not unwarranted. The missing tracks are "We Sing Hallelujah," "Has He Got a Friend for Me," "The Little Beggar Girl" and "Calvary Cross" (instead represented by a live version from the out-of-print anthology [guitar, vocal]). Hokey Pokey is also given short shrift, and while it was probably the slightest of the couple's three Island albums, it still isn't bad--I would have welcomed the inclusions of "Smiffy's Glass Eye" and "Old Man Inside a Young Man" or even "I'll Regret it All in the Morning." And of course, Pour Down Like Silver, Richard & Linda's last effort before retreating to their Sufi Muslim commune for three years, is represented by half its tracks, although the choices are ones you can't argue against too strenuously; I still might have added "Streets of Paradise" or "Jet Plane in a Rocking Chair" to the tracks included here. Lastly, "Dimming of the Day" has had its instrumental second half, "Dargai," lopped off completely.

All that said, this is a good place to start for those wishing to dig into RT's solo (i.e. post-Fairport) works. It's not terribly necessary, however, for the more serious fan who will seek out the individual albums, and the die-hards will also want to seek out remaindered copies of First Light and Sunnyvista (the couple's two albums for Chrysalis that no one has yet seen fit to bring back--hey, Fledg'ling, are you listening?) and Shoot Out the Lights. SOTL is the chronicle of the couple's breakup and Richard's move into completely solo work. But you should definitely start here.

Fans can never be objective..........2006-04-26

From the OBJECTIVE reviewer...Richard in the 70's was better than Richard without Linda, but still hyped by critics far above his talent.

At The End of The Rainbow the babes found the nearest bridge.......2005-06-07

To take a leap from! Yes, many of these songs are cynical and depressing in nature, but do they rock...OH YEAH! Songs on this compilation are either catchy or melodic and sometimes both, meaning that the songs are well-crafted and focused to have an emotional impact. Some rock, some carry a beautiful harmony or melody. The guitar is always very interesting, energetic (from a guitar players standpoint) and musical. Linda Thompson (Peters) has a very powerful and beautiful voice that, for me, carries me off with it's elegance and creativity. What a pair! Even Richard adds much in the singing department, especially when he and Linda sing harmony (his voice does have a funny edge). I have been a long-time fan of this genre (British Isle folk rock) and know the old Fairport, Steeleye, Pentangle, Clannad, incredible String Band and many others pretty well, but this solo-album period of the Thompson's is up there with some of the best in my opinion. Getting some of these albums seperately would be well worth it, but here is a good 78 minute, 16 song (covering material from 5 great albums) way to hear what never Withered and Died but lives on in all it's glory. Younger music lovers - put down the hip-hop and dancy, trancy drums n' bass and hear what real singer-songwriters can do! Classic talent!!

Transcendent despair.......2004-10-25

A great intro to the Thompsons. Worth it even if you already have the albums from which the songs were taken, as these recordings seem a bit cleaner than some of the originals.

I must comment on one song in particular. "I Want to See the Bright Lights Tonight" is one of the most desperately beautiful songs ever recorded, and by itself worth the price of the CD. The know-nothingly sunshiny backup vocals are heart-rending. Anyone who thinks this is a happy song hasn't lived.

Perhaps not recommendable if you want respite from your darker thoughts. The Thompsons themselves temporarily turned away from music and towards a religious life in the late 70s, and indeed, an unsatisfied longing permeates these songs.

I've got this one on now........2004-09-16

I have on "Calvary Cross" -- the best piece I ever heard on the electric guitar, over 12 minutes of it, and I love every guitar master you can name. If that doesn't pique your interest, stick with Britney Spears.

Richard Thompson not only is a uniquely gifted instrumentalist and a nonpareil songwriter, but he can pick the people he plays with like nobody. "Cross" stands out so much not only because of his stark voice and polymathic guitar, but because each of the other players - bass, drum, accordion, yes, accordion, just buy the record - has such a strong sense of nuance, such a keen understanding of what to play when and how loud or soft. They're all playing lead, and all meshing in harmony. It's transcendent.

The Island records Richard and Linda made are hair-pullingly hard to find in the shops, mate. (God, the playing on "Cross" now is so delicate my keyboard's drowning it out. Trust me, a few minutes ago a bomb couldn't have.) I have "Hokey Pokey" and that's it. But I'll get `em all, trust me, now that I have this one. I'll probably always consider the Stones' "Hot Rocks" and "More Hot Rocks" - while we're on guitar masters - the ultimate best-ofs. But man this one is close. Well-sequenced, well-chosen (if other tracks on the originals blow these away, I'll die from anticipation right now), evocative, moody. Stunning. (BTW, don't rant about the absence of "Shoot Out The Lights." It wasn't recorded for Island. But get the damn thing, and put it right next to this in your collection. You'll play them waaaaay too much for your mental health.)

Thank God for Richard Thompson. And that he's sustained himself through his undeserved obscurity so much better than Nick Drake did. While we're on guitar masters.

Average customer rating:

The Best of Aly & Phil Aly Bain , and Phil Cunningham Manufacturer: Compass Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD British Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Irish Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Scottish Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Scotland | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Celtic | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: Another Gem Silver Bow - Fiddle Music of Shetland The Pearl Fully Rigged Ruby ASIN: B0007QS4OQ Release Date: 2005-03-15

Tracks:

1. Donald MacLean's Farewell to Oban/The Sands of Burness/Miller's Reel
2. Sarah's Song
3. Waltz of the Little Girls
4. Jig Runrig/The Swedish Jig
5. Violet Tulloch Queen of Lerwick
6. Humours of Tulla/Fox Hunter's Reel/St. Anne's Reel [Live]
7. Sophie's Lullaby
8. Michael Coleman's Jig/Gingerhog's No. 2/Give Me a Drink of Water/Jiggy
9. My Lily/The Sweetness of Mary/Hughie Jim Paul's Reel
10. Ronfleuse Gobel/La Grande Chaine/Gallope de Malbaie
11. Pearl
12. Megan's Wedding/Da Herra Boys/The Barrowburn Reel
13. Spring the Summer Long
14. Waiting for the Federals
15. Colours of Cape Breton
16. Charlie Hunter's Jig/The Mouse in the Cupboard/The Rosewood
17. Flett from Flotta/Sabhal Iain ig Uisdean/The Drampire
18. Man's a Man for A' That
19. Auld Fiddler/Earl Mitten's Breakdown

Average customer rating: The essential collection of Steelye Span Folk rock for starters A great folk-rock band! A must buy!!! A great folk-rock band! A must buy!!!

Best of Steeleye Span Steeleye Span Manufacturer: EMI/Chrysalis ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD British Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music Folk | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Liege & Lief Below the Salt Parcel of Rogues The Lark in the Morning: The Early Years All Around My Hat ASIN: B00000743T Release Date: 1992-01-01

Tracks:

1. Gaudete
2. All Around My Hat
3. Thomas The Rhymer
4. Alison Gross
5. Little Sir Hugh
6. Cam Ye O'Er Frae France
7. Long Lankin
8. Gone To America
9. Let Her Go Down
10. Black Jack Davy
11. Bach Goes To Limerick

Customer Reviews:

The essential collection of Steelye Span.......2005-08-12

Steeleye Span were one of the first folk groups to attempt to liven up their sound by adding first electric guitars and eventually drums. But there was much more to the band's music than folk songs with a rock beat. They well and truly re-constructed traditional songs with highly inventive arrangenents which often seemed more aligned with progressive rock than folk music.It's probably this aspect of the group which seems to divide fans. Whether you prefer their earlier fairly conventional arrangements or their more adventurous "progressive" re-workings using electric instruments it's worth bearing in mind that folk songs were originally performed unaccompanied so I would argue that "rocking" up traditional music is no more debasing than simply adding an acoustic guitar.Infact it's part of the folk process! There have been numerous compilations of this band's output over the years but this one, originally released as a vinyl LP remains the one truly essential collection.At first glance it looks like a poor cousin to the more comprehensive and lavishly packaged "Original Masters" double CD which was originally released a few years earlier.However while that album seems a little padded out with non-essential tracks, "The Best Of Steeleye Span" concentrates all their classics primarily from their middle period on a single 47 minute disc and as a result packs a mighty punch.
First off is Gaudete from the album "Below The Salt", their well known version of a Christmas song sung in Latin.Then comes All Around My Hat" their one true hit and probably the one song for which they're most closely associated. It's an exciting arrangement with a great sing-along chorus and feisty mandolin breaks. The album of the same name was actually pretty uninspired and only contained one other true classic- "Black Jack Davy" which fortunately is also on this album.
The single version of "Thomas The Rhymer" is arguably their finest moment.With it's punchy verse, sublime chorus and ever shifting rhythms, this is Steeleye Span at their most progressive and exciting. Labelmate Jethro Tull's Ian Anderson was the production consultant and seems to have taken the experience of working with Steeleye Span when his band recorded the Songs From The Wood album.
"Alison Gross" and "Cam Ye O'er Frae France" are from the Parcel Of Rogues album which for the first time,shows the band moving into a more progressive direction. The latter song is particuarly haunting and beautiful.
"Little Lord Hugh","Long Lankin" and "Bach goes to Limerick" are all from the bands most underated album, Commoner's Crown.The epic eight and a half minute "Long Lankin"with its dramatic music breaks and dramatic feel is one of the band's crowning achievments.
The album also includes two of their later songs, "Gone To America" and "Let Her Go Down" from the Sails of Silver album which saw the band losing much of their eccentricity and becoming more mainstream.They are pleasant enough though a little pedestrian for my tastes.
This is the one Steeleye Span album I throw on when I need a quick dose of high energy inventive progressive folk rock. Anyone who buys this who only knows "All Around My Hat" are likely in for a treat! Highly recommended.

Folk rock for starters.......2004-05-10

Great folk rock with some progressive elements on it. After getting this compilation you'll be encouraged to get all the albums.The voice sounds close to the Cranberies but focus on the instrumentation and forget about the poppy Cranbs. Very Celtic and a true English folk music.

A great folk-rock band! A must buy!!!.......2001-06-05

This is a wonderful album. I got to it by chance as I was searching the net for songs of the comidian Peter Sellers and found a song called "New York City Girls" with Sellers playing banjo and doing some strange noises in the background. I learned (from this CD cover) that those guys recorded english folk music back at the 50's - 60's. They had endless matirial to record as the song were all written and known as traditional songs.

The songs on the album are all great, especially "Gaudete", "Cam Ye O'er Frae France", "Long Lankin". "Gaudete" sounds like some kind of prayer. very strong. "Cam Ye O'er Frae France" is my favorite track. It shows the wonderful ability of there female singer. It sounds almost imposible to sing. It is not in france but old english. And "Long Lankin" is the best example of a folk-rock song. It is a very old song modernly interpeted with electic guitars.

Their style reminds me sometimes of a feminan version of Jethro-Tull. Those guys sure know what they are doing. A must buy!!!

A great folk-rock band! A must buy!!!.......2001-06-05

This is a wonderful album. I got to it by chance as I was searching the net for songs of the comidian Peter Sellers and found a song called "New York City Girls" with Sellers playing banjo and doing some strange noises in the background. I learned (from this CD cover) that those guys recorded english folk music back at the 50's - 60's. They had endless matirial to record as the song were all written and known as traditional songs.

The songs on the album are all great, especially "Gaudete", "Cam Ye O'er Frae France", "Long Lankin". "Gaudete" sounds like some kind of prayer. very strong. "Cam Ye O'er Frae France" is my favorite track. It shows the wonderful ability of their female singer. It sounds almost imposible to sing. It is not in france but old english. And "Long Lankin" is the best example of a folk-rock song. It is a very old song modernly interpeted with electic guitars.

Their style reminds me sometimes of a feminan version of Jethro-Tull. Those guys sure know what they are doing. A must buy!!!

Average customer rating: before "going medieval": early-period Renbourn recordings Uh....Renbourn isn't dead, Griff Jones... Renbourne is missed ! Solid Album. Enjoyable. good sampler

The Essential: The Best Of John Renbourn John Renbourn Manufacturer: Castle Pulse ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Blues | Styles | Music Traditional Blues | Blues | Styles | Music British Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Folk General | Folk | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Folk General | Folk | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs Under $7 | British Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | British Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Folk | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Best of Bert Jansch Bert and John The Lady and the Unicorn Sweet Child Basket of Light ASIN: B00000856X Release Date: 1998-02-05

Tracks:

1. Goodbye Pork Pie Hat
2. Hermit
3. White House Blues
4. The Wildest Pig In Captiv
5. Country Blues
6. Train Tune
7. Cant Keep From Crying
8. After The Dance
9. Lord Franklin
10. Sweet Potato
11. Beth's Blues
12. Winter Is Gone
13. I Know My Babe
14. Kokomo Blues
15. Cuckoo
16. Faro's Rag
17. Will The Circle Be Unbrok
18. Nobodys Fault But Mine
19. Sally Go Round The Roses
20. Debbie Anne
21. Piano Tune
22. So Clear

Album Details

Tracks Include: The Hermit, White House Blues, Country Blues, Train Tune, I Know My Babe, Debbie Ann, Piano Tune, So Clear, Lord Franklin and More.

Customer Reviews:

before "going medieval": early-period Renbourn recordings.......2006-06-16

This is indeed a CD one can listen to all day, or at least all morning. Unlike classics "Maid in Bedlam" or "Lady and the Unicorn," this collection brings together early recordings more North American sounding than Celtic/Renaissance/Medieval. Lots of blues and ballads, some solo, some with Pentangle, some in tandem with Bert Jansch. From Dock Boggs to Thelonious Monk, from the Anglo-American tradition to Booker T. and the MGS (!), and into some of his own early compositions, this is a relaxing and engaging hour of music. If you have his Renaissance-Faire-oriented recordings, this is different but complementary; if you've never listened to Renbourn before, start here and work your way into the mid-seventies and beyond: he's still a most amazing fingerstyle guitar magician.

Uh....Renbourn isn't dead, Griff Jones..........2003-05-31

...physically or artistically. I just saw him do a show with Jacqui McShee in Seattle a week ago (May 2003). But- anyway, Renbourn fans- enjoy this one. I hope Renbourn will put out a live album with some of the material he's been doing for the past 10 years or so.

Renbourne is missed !.......2003-02-15

John Renbourne was probably one of the most influencial folk-blues guitarists to emerge from the sixties. His ability to combine traditional classical formats with folk-blues made him the envy of the new sixties acoustic revolution. This album offers a wonderful mix of styles and demonstrates his instrumental versitility leaving us in no doubt that he will always be missed.

Solid Album. Enjoyable........2001-09-04

This is one of those albums I can listen to all day. I'll mention that song (1), Goodbye Pork Pie Hat, is also found on the Pentangle album "Sweet Child". Song (19) "Sally Go Round the Roses" is on "Basket of Light". It's nice to hear Jacqui McShee on this album as well. She is also on (17), "Will the Circle be Unbroken", a hauntingly simple rendition that is captivating.

good sampler.......2000-10-06

The other reviewer's words notwithstanding, much of the material on this sampler is *not* from the pre-Pentangle period of John Renbourn's career (i.e., circa 1965-1967) but instead from "Sir John Alot," "Faro Annie," and others that were produced during (and even after) his Pentangle years. But these are just details. What you do get here is a broad sample of material from Renbourn's first seven or eight years of recorded music, and it's a good sample that shows just how effective he is at taking material from diverse sources and putting his own personal stamp on it. Renbourn is a real virtuoso performer, but his approach never lacks musicality or warmth. I can't ever remember getting a negative reaction from anyone I played John Renbourn material for.

Average customer rating: Simply Amazing Simply Wonderful I enjoyed it An Amazing Debut EP One song wonder...

Four Songs Alexi Murdoch Manufacturer: Mind Blue Music ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Lo-Fi | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music British Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Alternative Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | Folk | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Time Without Consequence Trouble O Veneer Amos Lee ASIN: B00015EKKU Release Date: 2003-03-10

Tracks:

1. It's Only Fear
2. Orange Sky
3. Blue Mind
4. Song For You

Album Description

The all time NO. 1 selling record on CDBaby. This limited edition EP is the first available music from fast emerging, young British singer-songwriter Alexi Murdoch.

Customer Reviews:

Simply Amazing.......2006-06-13

I bought this on a whim from another website, and it has become one of my favorite cds, despite its frustratingly short play time. Mr. Murdoch's full length album is out now, and I will be buying it no questions asked, simply based on these four songs. This album has a very simple sound; it is clean and has just the right amount of polish. Orange sky is the highlight of the album, but I never find myself skipping the preceding songs to reach it.

Simply Wonderful.......2006-06-08

I'm going to only give this EP 4 stars because there's only 4 songs on it, but what an incredible debut. I was in Tower Records yesterday and saw that he had just released his "debut album," my only two problems being "why did it take so long?" and "how come there are 11 songs on it, 3 of which are on his 4 song EP?" What makes this EP wonderful is the combination of beautiful melodies and wonderful lyrics. 'Orange Sky' is the song everyone either knows or has heard on the radion before, but the other three songs are just as strong. It's the kind of music you can listen to on its own, absorbing the lyrics and the music or the type of music you can read a book too. People have compared it to Nick Drake, which is a good comparison, but he may be closer to Badly Drawn Boy or a male version of Fisher. This guy is going to be huge if he puts out music on a more consistent basis. Buy this and enjoy.

I enjoyed it.......2006-04-27

This album has only four songs, but I think it is rather well done. The songs are simple, but very well-composed and heartfelt.

Orange Sky is by far the best song out of the four.

An Amazing Debut EP.......2005-08-06

Alexi creates something special with his debut EP. He has a wonderful ability to create size with his music. If you are a fan of lyrically driven music that touches the soul you will love this EP.

By the way BEN HARPER RULES!!!

One song wonder..........2005-05-30

Orange Sky is a good song, but the rest of the album is forgettable. Other reviewers have commented about the similarity to Nick Drake -- not so, say I. Murdoch's lyrics lack the craft of Drake, and some of the lines where he has forced the lyric into a rhyme made me cringe. Very disappointing.

Average customer rating: Yeah, Yeah, Yeah, Yeah, Yeah...... Not quite the perfect best of, but close enough! The Best Pogues Best Of... They left out half the powerhouses Could have been better

The Very Best of The Pogues The Pogues Manufacturer: Wea International ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music British Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Rock | Celtic | International | Styles | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Rest of the Best If I Should Fall From Grace With God Ultimate Collection Hell's Ditch Dirty Old Town: The Platinum Collection ASIN: B00005A472 Release Date: 2001-04-11

Tracks:

1. Dirty Old Town
2. The Irish Rovers
3. Sally MacLennane
4. Fiesta
5. A Pair Of Brown Eyes
6. Fairytale Of New York
7. The Body Of An American
8. Streams Of Whiskey
9. The Sick Bed Of Cuchulainn
10. If I Should Fall From Grace With God
11. Misty Morning, Albert Bridge
12. Rain Street
13. White City
14. A Rainy Night In Soho
15. London Girl
16. Boys From The County Hell
17. The Sunnyside Of The Street
18. Summer In Siam
19. Hell's Ditch
20. The Old Main Drag
21. The Band Played Waltzing Matilda

Album Description

International 'Best of' for the late-great punk inspired Celtic rock act. 21 tracks that encapsulate the musical mayhem of the Pogues & the lyrical genius of Shane Mcgowan. Highlights include 'Irish Rover', 'Fiesta', a cover of Ewan MacColl's 'Dirty Old T

Album Details

Digitally Remastered Collection of 21 Songs that Encapsulate the Lyrical Genius of Shane Macgowan and the Musical Mayhem of the Pogues. Featured Songs Include 'irish Rover', a Raucous Collaboration with the Dubliners, Ewan Maccoll's 'dirty Old Town' and 'fairytale of New York' and More.

Customer Reviews:

Yeah, Yeah, Yeah, Yeah, Yeah.............2004-02-18

This is a fairly good representation of the Pogues, for the uninitiated. Their best album 'Rum, Sodomy and the Lash' rightly gets its fair share of songs here. Shane was never at his most evocative and heart-wrenching than on songs such as 'A Pair Of Brown Eyes' and 'Old Main Drag', or at his rowdiest than on 'Sick Bed Of Cuchulainn'. Like any good 'Best Of' compilation, it also gathers together songs that are infuriatingly not available on other albums. The oft talked about 'Rainy Night In Soho', as well as two of their greatest songs 'The Body Of An American' and 'London Girl'. Any group that's managed to be produced by both Elvis Costello and Joe Strummer gives some indication as to the quality of songwriting involved in their work.

The second half of their career seems a bit disjointed on this collection, with only 3 songs from the brilliant 'If I Should Fall From Grace With God' compared to 4 from the above average 'Hell's Ditch'. Some odd choices from the later collection (e.g. Rain Street & Sunnyside of the Street sound like parts one and two of the same song) are picked over better songs from the earlier one. What about the single 'Yeah, Yeah, Yeah', surely one of the best Pogues rock songs that's also pretty difficult to come by on albums.

Despite these minor reservations 'The Very Best Of....' is a great place to start.

Not quite the perfect best of, but close enough!.......2003-12-25

The Pogues are one of the few all time great bands that cannot be defined through a mere best of set, from Miles Davis to the Beatles to the modern day Nirvana. But this is certainly the closest any will ever come, with 21 of the best (with the exception of Fiesta) that will certainly serve as a wonderful introduction for the casual fans. It's also particularly essential to any fans of the Irish pub-punk movement that as of recent years has produced many an heir to their thrones (Flogging Molly and the Dropkick Murphys have been the closest, but lack that intangible Irish spirit that Shane McGowan so mastered, nor are they as adventurous) from one of the finest and most unique bands ever, and possibly the greatest band to emerge from the disaster that was the '80s. If you don't have anything by the Pogues, this is a great place to start. The band recieved raves from, and were even produced by such legends as Elvis Costello and Joe Strummer, frontman of the Clash (perhaps the only band to stretch punk further then the Pogues did). If this isn't reason enough, there'll be no convincing you.

The Best Pogues Best Of..........2003-10-09

One of the classic groups of our time, the Pogues possessed that intangible, instantly memorable "something" that set them apart from all other bands of their era. As a result, their music has not dated a bit. As with Fairport Convention in the `60s, the Pogues deserve much credits for opening peoples ears to Irish folk/celtic music through their irreverent, high-energy, decidedly non-traditional approach. They started out basically as a bunch of young punks playing Irish drinking songs and gradually evolved into one of the most original and legendary groups of the 1980's (some would argue, in terms of sheer fun & excitement, ever). On a good night, they were the best live band on the planet.

"The Very Best..." is the best overview of the band currently in available. Although it definitely is not perfect; their opus "If I Should Fall From Grace" is under-represented in favor too many tracks off the orginal line-up's weaker, last album "Hells Ditch," Terry Woods' excellent compositions ("Young Ned Of The Hill," "Gatlorey Rats") are ignored as are the band's punkier rebel tunes, and, perhaps most eggregiously, the Pogues' most heartbreaking song, "Thousand Are Sailing," is missing. Other than those gripes, this is a decent compilation that provides a much needed crisp remastering of these songs.

There are real benefits to owning this for fans who already have most of the Pogues' records. Three out of four of the songs from the rare Elvis Costello-produced "Poguetry In Motion" EP (never made available on CD in the US) are here. They are on par in quality with "Rum, Sodomy & The Lash." The terrific collaboration with the Dubliners on "The Irish Rover" is included as well. This drinking song rendition is equivalent to a classic meeting of elder & youthful giants (i.e. "Duke & Coltrane"); That alone makes this worthwhile. All in all, this is a flawed, but as-close-to-perfect intro as you are going to get without going out and buying all the Shane-era Pogues albums.

Now, if we only get a deluxe remastering (with bonus track) of their entire discography!

They left out half the powerhouses.......2003-09-19

I agree with andrewemiller. This is not "The Best", this is "Some of the Best". You wonder who picked the songs, because many really good ones are missing. In addition to "Rum, Sodomy & The Lash" and "If I Should Fall From Grace With God", I also recommend "Waiting for Herb" and "Red Roses For Me".

Could have been better.......2003-07-09

I think they could have done a better job of picking "Best Of" songs. As much as this costs, do yourself a favor, spend a little more and just buy "Rum Sodomy & the Lash", and "If I Should Fall From Grace with God". I think you'll be much happier, especially if you are new to the Pogues.

Average customer rating:

The Very Best of the Searchers The Searchers Manufacturer: Castle Us ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Power Pop | Rock | Styles | Music British Invasion | Classic Rock | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | British Invasion | Classic Rock | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | British Invasion | Classic Rock | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Similar Items: The Very Best of the Seekers The Best of Gerry & the Pacemakers: The Definitive Collection The Vogues - Greatest Hits Peter & Gordon - Greatest Hits [CEMA Special Markets] The Ultimate Peter & Gordon ASIN: B0007TFHZM Release Date: 2005-02-15

Tracks:

1. Sweets for My Sweet
2. Needles and Pins
3. Love Potion No. 9
4. Don't Throw Your Love Away
5. Sugar and Spice
6. When You Walk in the Room
7. Ain't That Just Like Me
8. What Have They Done to the Rain
9. Some Day We're Gonna Love Again
10. Goodbye My Love
11. Bumble Bee
12. He's Got No Love
13. Take Me for What I'm Worth
14. Have You Ever Loved Somebody

Average customer rating: This CD will grow on you! Beautiful Sound Great Music The Men In Suits Strike Again... The best?

Rogha: The Best of Clannad Clannad Manufacturer: RCA ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD British Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Ireland | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Celtic | International | Styles | Music New Age | Celtic | International | Styles | Music Fusion | Celtic | International | Styles | Music Celtic New Age | New Age | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Clannad: Greatest Hits The Best of Clannad: In a Lifetime Two Horizons Legend Misty Eyed Adventures ASIN: B000002X0N Release Date: 1997-01-28

Tracks:

1. Newgrange
2. Second Nature
3. Closer To Your Heart
4. Seachran Charn Tsiail
5. Ancient Forest
6. Now Is Here
7. Something To Believe In
8. In Search Of A Heart
9. Buachaill On Eirne
10. Northern Sky Line
11. Together We
12. Ta 'Me Mo Shui
13. Blackstairs
14. Indoor
15. Thios Fa'n Chosta
16. In A Lifetime
17. Theme From Harry's Game
18. The Fairy Queen
19. Journey's End

Amazon.com

People may argue whether or not this 19-track, 65-minute compilation qualifies as the best of Clannad, but few would argue that it showcases the Irish group's striking diversity. No question it includes some of Clannad's best-known selections, including pop-single cameos by Bruce Hornsby ("Something to Believe In") and Bono of U2 ("In a Lifetime"), plus its career-propelling "Theme From Harry's Game." It also touches on the group's beat-heavy forays into pop-rock ("In Search of a Heart," the jam-filled "Second Nature," the Fleetwood Mac-like "Northern Skyline.") The disc's most attractive feature, however, is its sampling of Clannad's varied approach to Celtic styles, performed at times with an ethereal, traditional delicacy ("Newgrange," "Ta Me Mo Shui," the Enya-like "Now Is Here"), and at other times with beguiling hints of contemporary influences (such as the faint country strains floating through "Buachaill on Eirne"). An interesting listen. --Terry Wood

Customer Reviews:

This CD will grow on you!.......2007-03-19

Clannad has been one of the great talents of Irish music. However, if you have landed here because you love the sound of Enya, be forewarned: this particular Clannad collection does not compare very well in sound and style to say, Shepherd Moons. It's more contemporary, more beat driven, slightly 70's-ish sounding at times, without much in the way of those haunting melodies and vocals that Enya (or Loreena McKinnet) are known for (the exception being "Harry's Game"). But all in all, this is a great collection that any lover of Irish music should have. 3 or 4 of the songs are worth the entire CD.

Beautiful Sound.......2007-03-15

I have been haunted by the music from "Patriot Game" for years and have found it here. These are the authors of Harry's Game (Theme of Patriot Game) as well as the vocals on last of the Mohicans.

Beautiful haunting sounds-and I don't understand Gaelic.

The Celtic Women are a knock off of this group.

Great Music.......2005-09-26

I originally got to listen to this cd from a borrowed copy from the local library. I was never a hugh fan or Irish music until now. It is a wonderful collection and now I want more. Definately worth the money!

The Men In Suits Strike Again..........2004-04-07

Wow, there must be more Clannad compilations than actual albums by now...

I was a big Clannad fan at the end of the 80's, and picked this up for old time's sake. I was already familiar with all the songs here, which I have on cassette.

It contains many of my favourites, but I have nevertheless a few gripes with this release. I feel that it gives a slightly skewed picture, being somewhat narrow in scope with regards to the selection of tracks. Only four albums are represented here, from Clannad's substantial discography, with the emphasis being upon two (which happen to be my personsal favourites), Magical Ring and Macalla. This is a 19-song compilation, but those two albums provide 13 of the songs, which seems a little over the top. Indeed, 60% of Magical Ring, and 70% of Macalla is to be found here, which must surely lessen the incentive in new fans to buy the actual albums, which would be a shame.

The compilers could at least have chosen a track or two from Fuaim, Atlantic Realm, and Anam, without straying far from the concept of showcasing this particular stage in Clannad's history. It would also give more of a notion of where they came from, and in which direction they headed after their decidedly dodgy album, Sirius.

I sometimes find it a better listening experience to re-programme the tracks in chronological order - it makes more sense that way. It seems silly to place Second Nature second, just because of it's name, and rather crude to follow the delicate beauty of Theme From Harry's Game, and The Fairy Queen, with the jolt into joviality that is Journey's End.

So, all in all, I would say that it isn't the best place to start, but of course the content is for the most part great stuff. There are superior Clannad compilations out there, certainly, and their classic albums, Magical Ring, and Macalla, shouldn't be missed.

The best?.......2004-02-23

Let me begin by saying that there are some great tunes here: "Seachran Charn Tsiail," "In Search of a Heart," "Buachaill on Eirne" and "In a Lifetime" (featuring U2's Bono) among them. In fact, a great deal of their stellar earlier work is represented here...and that's the problem. ONLY their earlier work is represented here. Later music, such as the beautiful "I Will Find You" and "Na Laethe Bhi" are nowhere to be found.

It's a good collection...but the best? I think not.

World Music:

1. The Golden Collection [Import]
2. This Is Pourcel//Plays the Cole Porter Story [Import]
3. Une Fille Tres Scene [Import]
4. V.5- La Commune, Aimer a perdre la raison [Import]
5. Venezuela Y Su Musica
6. Very Best of: 20 Great Songs [Import]
7. Very Best of [Import]
8. Viaxe Por Urticaria [Import]
9. Weekend [CD-single] [Import]
10. Y'a d'La Joie

World Music

world music

World Music

Jou Hou

Spa

Norman Krieger Performs Piano Masterpieces

Coward of the County

Resolutions

The Light of the World

Ricette Di Donna [Import]

Stay Fresh/Chevrolets [CD-single]

Tales From the Acoustic Planet

Pierre Boulez: Domaines - Ensemble Musique Vivante

Solo [Live]

The Best of Peggy Lee and Benny Goodman

South Coast Compilation: STR-8-Ballin [Import]

Let Everybody Know

Joelle Leandre Project