St. Paddy's Day Records: The Makem & Clancy Collection

This record probably marks my memories of childhood better than any other, and after rediscovering it about three years ago, it's become one of my favorites of adulthood as well.

As individuals, Tommy Makem and Liam Clancy have each earned their spot in any future folk music hall of fame. When brought together, Clancy's soft voice and touching delivery entwines with Makem's unique and vibrant baritone to produce striking harmonies. Their contrasting vocals also allowed them to carry a wide range of selections in their songbag. As Clancy's homepage proudly announces, Dylan called him "the best ballad singer I'd ever heard in my life." (For now I'll avoid arguing Clancy's more controversial influence over Dylan's work.) The late Tommy Makem, for his part, could handle the ballads pretty well also, but was perhaps at his best when he picked up the pace a bit on reels, drinking songs, and upbeat narratives like his crowd-pleasing "Town of Ballybay."

It's with good reason that Makem is known as the godfather of Irish music, and while his solo work is unwaveringly excellent, I still prefer him accompanied by his boyhood friend. Makem and Liam Clancy brought out the best in each other's music, and so the Makem and Clancy Collection, as it ranges from simple children's tunes to lush Celtic arrangements, is a great introduction not only to two legendary folk musicians, but also to Irish music in general. Click on the album cover above to buy it.

Downloads:

Makem & Clancy - "The Dutchman" (Mediafire link)

Makem & Clancy - "Morning Glory" (Mediafire link)

Check out SITKOT's full list of recommended St. Patrick's Day albums here.