We have selected a set of fine recordings from Ireland, inspired by Irish music or from some other Celtic lands that will help you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day 2020.
Gatehouse
Gatehouse has released Heather Down The Moor (Gael Linn, 2019). The critically acclaimed ensemble performs exquisite music rooted in Irish traditional music.
The band includes John and Jacinta McEvoy, Rachel Garvey and John Wynne. Gatehouse are highly reputable musicians who are sought after to teach and mentor younger musicians at various Summer schools throughout Ireland. The singer of the band is Rachel Garvey, an All-Ireland winner in both Irish and English song.
Eileen Ivers
Renowned Irish-American fiddler Eileen Ivers has a superb new album titled Scatter the Light that includes themes about family, faith, gratitude, loss, calls-of-action, taking chances, and finding the strength to survive life’s obstacles. Her album Scatter the Light includes contemporary Irish music, folk-rock, African American influences, and pretty cool wah-wah violin work.
Ivers plays fiddle, octave fiddle, mandolin, banjo, bodhran and sings on two tracks. She’s accompanied by an outstanding cast of musicians.
Tommy Sands
Tommy Sands is one of the most famous folk singer-songwriters from Ireland. On Fair play To You All, Sands delivers a set of fascinating songs that advocate for social justice causes, combining contemporary folk and Irish music.
Seamus Egan
Irish-American multi-instrumentalist Seamus Egan has an excellent new album titled Early Bright, where he combines Irish folk, chamber music and Americana.
Celtic Woman
Celtic Woman is back with Celebration – 15 Years of Music and Magic, combining Irish folk and ethereal ambience. Celtic Woman is the most successful all-female group in Irish history.
The group is celebrating its 15 year career with a set that includes classics like Danny Boy and The Parting Glass as well as traditional songs in the Irish language such as Mo Ghile Mear and Níl Sé’n Lá. Chloë Agnew rejoined for the album and tour.
Various Artists
Putumayo World Music has released a great compilation titled Celtic Women. The colorful anthology features songs in English and Gaelic by some of the finest vocalists in Ireland, Scotland and the USA whose music is rooted in Irish or Scottish traditions.
The selection includes Emily Smith; Karen Matheson (Scotland); Cara Dillon (Ireland); Capercaillie (Scotland); Maighread & Tríona Ní Dhomhnaill (Ireland); Lasairfhíona (Ireland); Cathie Ryan; Éilís Kennedy (Ireland); Rebecca Pidgeon (USA); Rose Laughlin (USA).
Van Morrison
One of Ireland’s most famous artists is Van Morrison. He has an outstanding new album titled Three Chords & the Truth (2019) where his unmistakable voice delivers blues, rock and Americana.
The album includes guests appearances by guitarist Jay Berliner and a duet with The Righteous Brothers’ Bill Medley (Fame Will Eat the Soul).
Celtic Serenity
If the corona virus COVID-19 is stressing you out, Irish act Celtic Serenity (Graham L. Henderson) has produced a series of meditative and soothing albums inspired by the landscapes and natural beauty of Ireland.
Celtic Serenity plays Irish melodies on flute, accompanied by keyboards and acoustic guitars. The albums are meant to be listened to as a whole, following the flow. The series includes Reflections, Life Songs and Journey. The albums focus on relaxation and as background for yoga sessions.
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.