1. “For Love And Laughter” by Solas
Passionate music by skilled musicians who have been around on the Celtic scene for quite some time. Each new album finds the band pushing themselves a little harder, and this is no exception.
2. “Whiskers In The Jar” by Marc Gunn & The Dubliners' Tabby Cats
Everyone can use a good laugh, and Marc Gunn provides that–as well as good music on this energetic and amusing CD about cats. Yes, you heard right–the album features Irish and Scottish songs that have been “adjusted” to be about cats!
3. “Far From Home” by Pitch The Peat
This band plays traditional Irish music and does it simply, without fanfare or flourish. Still, the sheer ease of the sound captured me and I really enjoyed their work.
4. “The Drunken Priest And The Ghostly Hymns Of Autumn” by Damanta
Is it Celtic? Is it alt/rock? Is it good? Why yes, it 'tis! Great vocals, great music and an album that is full of surprises. Fans of Celtic rock should really enjoy this CD.
5. “Sham Rock” by Beatnik Turtle
Irish pub songs with a rock vibe. This band went all out on this CD and the music was really terrific.
6. “A Thousand Curses Upon Love” by Jennifer Licko Shelton
Scottish and Irish influences reign on this CD and Jennifer Licko Shelton's voice is a pleasure to listen to.
7. “What's The Rumpus?” by Gaelic Storm
Acoustic sound and a party of an album. African drums, Irish pipes and fiddle all combine for a wild ride. If you can't get the idea from the title of the final track, ” The Night I Punched Russell Crowe,” I don't know what to tell you. Check this out and dare to be different.
8. “Hollow Of Morning” by Gemma Hayes
Beautiful melodies combined with stellar songwriting make this CD gorgeous. A well-crafted album.
9. “The Very Best Of Clannad” by Clannad
While “best of” albums can be a bit bland, this one stands out from the crowd. You can hear faves such as ‘In A Lifetime' (with Bono), and ‘I Will Find You' here–and the band doesn't skimp either. You get 17 tracks of their best.
10. “The High Kings” by The High Kings
Traditional music at its best, this CD is full of great harmonies and great sounds. It was one that really stayed with me long after I heard it the first time. The minute I finished the album, I marked it as one of the best for 2008 and it remained on my list all year. Outstanding.
Catherine L. Tully is a freelance writer and photographer who specializes in the arts. She has written for American Style and Classical Singer, among other magazines, and reviews music for Marc Gunn's Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. You can reach her through her website at CatherineLTully.com.
Published by Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. Don't just download. Support your favorite Celtic music groups. Buy Celtic music CDs.
