The Chieftains are legendary, and have done more than any other artist to spread the joy of Irish music far and wide, so I don’t mind that they should make it on here twice. They’re such a great band, and have worked with so many other great artists, that I struggled with whether to include one of their own records or another collaboration. But ultimately, this list was intended to follow in the spirit of the Chieftains themselves in promoting the genre beyond its core audience.
With a lineup that includes the Rolling Stones, Sinead O’Connor, Sting, Ry Cooder, and many others, The Long Black Veil is a great intro to Irish music, and provides recognizable songs and voices that make it all the more accessible. My favorite track off the record is also one of my favorite folk tunes. It’s thought to be of English origin, but most versions I’ve heard (including Bob Dylan’s) place the story stateside in Missouri. It’s been done by countless folksingers, but Mark Knopler’s interpretation of the song with the Chieftains’ rich orchestrations at his back breathes a whole new life into the old tune.
What’s perhaps most impressive about this record is that despite the stars that join the band on nearly every track, it’s the music of the Chieftains that shines brightest. The songs are all well-chosen, and upon listening you can almost hear the depth of the guests’ respect for their hosts in their voices. For any modern music fan, this is a record worth owning.
With a lineup that includes the Rolling Stones, Sinead O’Connor, Sting, Ry Cooder, and many others, The Long Black Veil is a great intro to Irish music, and provides recognizable songs and voices that make it all the more accessible. My favorite track off the record is also one of my favorite folk tunes. It’s thought to be of English origin, but most versions I’ve heard (including Bob Dylan’s) place the story stateside in Missouri. It’s been done by countless folksingers, but Mark Knopler’s interpretation of the song with the Chieftains’ rich orchestrations at his back breathes a whole new life into the old tune.
What’s perhaps most impressive about this record is that despite the stars that join the band on nearly every track, it’s the music of the Chieftains that shines brightest. The songs are all well-chosen, and upon listening you can almost hear the depth of the guests’ respect for their hosts in their voices. For any modern music fan, this is a record worth owning.
Download:
Mark Knopfler & The Chieftains - "Lily of the West" (Mediafire link)
See the full list of St. Paddy's Day record reccomendations here.
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