Some people grab a bottle of $3.99 wine and are perfectly happy pouring themselves a glass or three–and there’s certainly nothing wrong with that. However, others would rather pass on that glass in favor of sipping on something that tickles their more well-developed palate. Fine wines are often a bit of an acquired taste, and I’ll admit that I can’t tell the difference between a decent wine and an exceptional one. The detail in the “notes” of vanilla and oak, etc. have always been a bit lost on me. That said, I do know that I tend to like wines from certain regions, such as New Zealand and Chile. Everyone is a little different, right? It’s what makes the world go ‘round.
Although the comparison may not be direct, there is a similarity when it comes to Celtic music. Some people love any music that is in the spirit of the Celtic sound and are content to raise a glass on St. Patrick’s Day with any type of Irish-related music playing merrily away in the room.
Again—there’s nothing wrong with that. However, others may be a bit more particular about the musical style and instrumentation, focusing on the skill of the players or vocals, and the overall quality of the band or group. And some might have a preference for authentic Celtic bands that deliver music that blends stories and a sense of heritage into the mix.
Since the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast is generally aimed more at those who are interested specifically in Celtic bands, what follows is a curated list of favorites that will all lend something special to your St. Patrick’s Day celebration. This won’t be the list you find on a typical roundup of tunes for the holiday—and that’s a good thing! Some of the groups or artists were chosen because they feature accomplished Celtic musicians or vocalists. Others earned a spot for their musical originality and authentic Celtic background. Many on this list have all those qualifications, and more.
The fact is, this isn’t a list that is geared toward those who are satisfied with the “$3.99 version”, instead it’s for those who feel a connection to Celtic music at a level that runs a little deeper than just plain fun. People who truly love Irish music and are into the Celtic culture every day, not just on St. Patrick’s Day.
- We Banjo 3
- Jiggy
- The Selkie Girls
- Screaming Orphans
- Ockham's Razor
- Barleyjuice
- Lissa Schneckenburger
- An Lar
- Skeleton McKee
- Runa
- Stringer's Ridge
- Eileen Ivers
- Alexander James Adams
- Heather Dale
- Tami Curtis
- Jesse Ferguson
- W Ed Harris
- Kilmaine Saints
- Syr
- The Gothard Sisters
No matter what kind of Celtic music palate you have developed over time, there’s something for you in this list. Have a listen, swirl it around, see what resonates, and get yourself ready for the holiday we all love so much. St. Patrick’s Day awaits—and it needs a playlist!
Also, don’t forget to subscribe to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast so you can dig deeper and learn more about what’s out there in Celtic music. It would be great to have you with us!
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