The Gothard Sisters “Willow's Waltz” from Story Girl

That was The Gothard Sisters playing “Willow’s Waltz” off of Story Girl. The trio—Greta, Solana, and Willow Gothard—have been making music together for well over a decade, and it shows. They are skilled at what they do, but that really isn’t the whole story. There’s something about this band from the Pacific Northwest that transcends ability. Those who have seen them live know the magic. They are lively when performing—sometimes even breaking out into dance while playing! That magic isn’t lost on a recording either…the energy is still present even in the absence of being able to see them.

All three of the ladies are trained musicians, but beyond that you can hear the joy when they make music together. This isn’t something you can manufacture—it’s either there or it isn’t. The Gothard Sisters definitely deliver on that, and it’s easy to see why they continue to gather new fans and grow their base of devoted fans every day. They’re wonderful!

WELCOME-

Speaking of devoted fans—what we have here is the list of the top Celtic Top 20 of 2022—voted on by listeners. Thank you to all who participated in the vote—it’s always such a challenge to choose the very best among all that’s out there, but you helped narrow the field to this selection…

Here we go!

You’ll find House of Hamill ticks all the boxes for a good listen. The band's version of “Pound a Week Rise” hit #1 on the US Folk DJ charts, and their latest album, “Folk Hero” is fan-funded. That in and of itself should tell you something about this group of three. The musicians came together by a series of happy accidents—almost as if fate decided they should be playing together.

Not only do they do original music and old, traditional favorites, but they have put together some really cool arrangements for covers as well. Their video for an all-violin rendition of Guns & Roses song “Sweet Child of Mine” is super creative and very well executed. No singing—they let their instruments do that for them…and every sound in the song is made using the violin! It’s no small wonder the video garnered over 16 million views on Facebook! Indie Irish folk music at its best right here.

The song that made the list this year is: “Superb Owl” from Folk Hero

Altan is a band that needs no introduction for most Celtic music fans—they’ve been around for decades and have played all over the world. Rooted in Donegal folklore, there’s a lot to like when it comes to this group. Their singer, Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, provides the backbone for the band’s sound, and she truly has a gorgeous voice, whether she is singing in Irish or English.

The music they play is varied, ranging from rousing jigs and reels to delicate ballads, and nearly every other type of Irish folk song you can dream of. When you talk about a traditional Celtic band that has something for everyone, this is Altan. Some have referred to the group as “ambassadors” for their home country, but the musicians maintain a humility and freshness about them that keeps everything they do honest. You can’t go wrong with a band like that.

The song that made the list this year is: “Dúlamán” from Island Angel

Next up is Socks in the Frying Pan—a group that’s a serious contender for most creative name ever! The band is made up of three men who hail from Ireland’s West coast, and they have a modern traditional style that features a blend of easy-to-listen-to music and great harmonizing. Instrumentation includes the accordion, guitar, fiddle, and banjo.

It’s easy to dismiss bands like this, thinking they are just about having a fun time. If you did that with Socks in the Frying Pan, you’d be making a big mistake. These gents are serious musicians as well, and they do break out the mad skills and parade them around in style on many tracks. It just goes to show you—you can make fun music and still be accomplished as a player!

The song that made the list this year is: “Spaceships & Frying Pans (Live)” from Raw & Ríl (Live)

Thanks to listeners for voting my song, “Bright Side of Everything” into this list! This is a track from my album Selcouth, and I’m happy that it resonated in the way I’d hoped. Positivity is something that can be in short supply these days, and it can be a struggle to remember that there’s always something good to look at. I wanted to highlight that here in this song. So glad it hit home with you.

Here I am with Screeched Inn on: “Bright Side of Everything” from Selcouth

Flynn Cohen’s relationship with music isn’t just as a guitar and mandolin player—although that’s a big part of it! This artist’s background includes teaching music theory and history, teaching private music lessons, and performing all over the world with many different bands. It’s an informed history that you can almost hear reflected in the music as he plays. Cohen has put out four albums of his own, featuring other musicians playing alongside him—undoubtedly hand-picked for the job.

This musician plays Irish traditional music, but doesn’t limit himself to that genre, pulling in influences from bluegrass, folk-rock, and more as he sees fit. You have to really know music well to blend it successfully, and Cohen has the chops to do it beautifully. He manages to keep the spirit of the music alive and well, while drawing on his considerable background to give it more depth and breadth.

The song that made the list this year is: “Hag's Purse / Bryan O'Lynn / Miss McDevitt's Jig” from Dead String Rhythm

John Doyle has a long history with music, and he’s done a lot of collaborating with other musicians and singers along the way. Hailing from Dublin, this artist has teamed up with many well-known names over the years, including Liz Carroll, Joan Baez, Mary Chapin Carpenter, and countless others. He was also a member of the well-known group Solas. To say he has a musical pedigree would indeed be a vast understatement! It definitely shows in his music. Doyle is an excellent guitar player and that is probably even apparent to those that don’t have a musical background. He’s able to make it do his bidding.

For anyone interested, there’s a vast catalog of music he is associated with, meaning there are plenty of different ways to hear him sing and play. Drawing on English folk, Scottish, and Irish music, those who love traditional style Celtic will appreciate his music—as well as the wide spectrum of his influences.

The song that made the list this year is: “The Rambler from Clare (Song)” from The Path of Stones

The Bow Triplets lineup has continually changed over time, but one thing has always been true with this group—they provide a wonderful look at a wide range of Celtic music. Those listeners who really appreciate the span this band covers know this to be true. The bands name is a nod to strokes on a fiddle—Irish-style, and they definitely put forth some great traditional music.

The broad appeal of The Bow Triplets is probably due at least in part to the fact that they aren’t afraid to venture out a bit and play music that may not be in the typical lineup. In addition, the band is made up of skilled musicians. Nothing sings quite like a fiddle in the hands of someone that knows how to make it shine, and that is definitely part of the group’s magic.

The song that made the list this year is: “Open Sky/Meghan's Reel/Canal Jig” from One Spot On Earth

If you love Irish ballads you may already be quite familiar with The High Kings. This group, formed back in 2007, simply nails the jaunty ballad, the pretty ballad, and…well…all the ballads! Their voices blend together to form a powerful sound that still conveys meaning and emotion. Listening to them just feels good.

The High Kings aren’t just singers though, they play instruments as well. Something about their mix works so well—it’s super hard to stand out with something unique in this genre, but they manage to do so. From humble beginnings, the group grew to the point that they were performing for Presidents and large crowds of fans. They certainly earned that.

The song that made the list this year is: “Marie's Wedding” from The High Kings

Founded way back in 1969, Battlefield Band has managed to consistently deliver Scottish traditional music that’s pretty fantastic—despite a changing lineup of band members over the years. Their sound shifted around a bit to accommodate the latest arrivals, but it always made for an interesting mix of songs and arrangements. Many of the band’s subject matter choices for songs have been typical fare—but at times they were also known to get political.

It’s difficult to describe the music that was produced for the full length of this band’s career, as it has been so varied. If you aren’t familiar with them, the best thing to do is sample a range of albums to get a feel for their sound(s). Their mass appeal put them on this list, so that’s reason enough to take a listen!

The song that made the list this year is: “The St. Louis Stagger / The Ass In The Graveyard / Sandy's New Chanter” from The Producer's Choice

Rich. Clean. Pure. These are all adjectives that come to mind when one hears the name Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh. Just how some musicians become known for the sounds they call forth from their chosen instrument, so it is with her voice. Distinct—full of emotion—yet it can be gentle as light rain as well if the song calls for it. Known for singing sean nós style (literally, “old style”, or, “in the old way”), this all makes sense.

Formerly the lead singer (and flute player) for Danú, her musical experience runs the gamut from solo to group work. Awarded the title of “Best Folk Singer” at the RTÉ Radio Folk Awards, this artist has stacked up quite a few acknowledgements for her musical abilities throughout the years, and deservedly so. Her voice is simply a joy to listen to.

The song that made the list this year is: “The Emigrant's Farewell” from daybreak: fainne an lae

Irish music is a family affair when it comes to The Byrne Brothers! It’s a pleasure to listen to the youth-infused energy of this band—the majority of which are in their teens. The group hails from Donegal, but they certainly have gotten out and about to share their music with the world. Some of that has been on social media where they garnered millions of views, some of it has been on tour in America, and some of it was as cast members at Disney World.

It’s no problem to see why the group has such appeal. Besides the adept play at their chosen instruments, there’s such a feeling of verve and pep here. Whether they are playing reels, hornpipes, or a waltz, there’s a vibe here that sets them apart from the crowd.

The song that made the list this year is: “Waikiki Reel (Finn Byrne) Seanamhac Tube Station Reel [Traditional]” from Living the Dream

Ed Miller is a singer/songwriter with the gift of a voice that conveys emotion easily. Born in Edinburgh, this Scottish performer wound up in Texas and never left. Miller has a PhD in Folklore, hosts a radio show, and manages to teach and perform his music as well. He knows his craft! There’s a real draw when he sings something—that velvety voice full of confidence pulls you right in.

With over 35 years in the industry, this is definitely a performing artist with something to offer. It’s easy to hear the appeal that he has in his music, and there’s a reason his name is appearing on this list. The fact that he’s a Scottish native who is a transplant to Texas also informed his music in a variety of ways—it keeps things interesting!

The song that made the list this year is: “My Bonnie Border Lass” from Lolander

There’s a hint of what’s to come when you see this band’s name—fiddle aplenty! There’s not just one—nor even just two—rather three skilled fiddle players in The Bow Tides! Add to that the fact that they’re not average fiddlers, and it’s a recipe for wonderful things. Every one of the three of them played at one time or another with the popular Celtic band, Gaelic Storm, which gives you a good idea of their ability.

The three ladies are rounded out nicely with a bassist and guitarist to form the band, and there’s plenty to like about this group of musicians. You’ll hear traditional songs from Ireland, Scotland, and Galica, as well as original music from the band, and all of it is excellent. How can you go wrong with this arrangement of fine musicians?

The song that made the list this year is: “The Bow Tides Jigs” from Sailing On

Need a pick-me-up? Check out Rising Gael’s music if you’re looking for something generally upbeat, Celtic, and more contemporary. Guitar, drums, flute, and fiddle combine with powerful force to put forth music that will put a little bit of pep in your step. You’ll still hear traditional music, but maybe just not in the typical arrangements that you’re used to. Nothing wrong with that! The band also adds some other instruments to the mix now and again to keep things surprising—and lively.

Rising Gael has been around since the early 2000s and have a loyal fan base that continues to grow. Their refreshing sound expands a bit on “the good stuff” and they also do original music. A great mixture!

The song that made the list this year is: “Tam Lin” from One More Day

The Selkie Girls have been playing together since 2013, and they are based in North Texas, born from that area's folk music scene. From them you’ll hear Scottish and Irish songs, jigs, and reels. You’ll also hear more contemporary ballads and other offerings. Enough variation to keep things appealing, but not so much as to feel like they’re reaching beyond what this genre encompasses.

Marked by a penchant for sweet harmonies and a love of singing in the native tongue—both of these factors set them apart from many other groups—but it’s not the only thing that gives them an allure. It’s always hard to capture the essence of a group’s vibe in mere words, so perhaps it’s best to give them a listen!

The song that made the list this year is: “Star of the County Down” from Running With the Morrigan

I’m humbled to thank listeners once more—this time for voting in “Hobbit Polka” – which for me was I’m sure as fun to create as it was for you to listen to! Polkas have such a spirited, whimsical feeling to them, and I wanted to treat this one with care to make sure it gave its all for my listeners. Hopefully the clapping and instrumentation had you feeling like hitting the dance floor! Let’s have a listen…

I’m here with Sam Gillogly on “Hobbit Polka” from Dancing With Hobbits

Brad Tuck branched out on his own to offer his unique sound to listeners in 2018 after having already been a part of the music scene in his native Newfoundland for some time, serving as the drummer for an established band named Shanneyganock.

The easy way that the music and vocals come together for Tuck make him immensely listenable, and it’s tough to get a bead on exactly what his successful recipe is—but it’s definitely present. Sometimes the stars align and a musician just clicks with their arrangements and musical choices, and for this artist, it has done exactly that in what he offers in song. It’s relaxed and effortless.

The song that made the list this year is: “Madeline's Might” from Stages

Whereas Brad Tuck may lull you into a state of relaxed bliss, Scythian will get your blood flowing! Upbeat, with a party feel, this is a band that will keep you up and alert. The members came together in Washington DC during their college years, playing music—just to play and perform for others. This grew over the years until they found themselves headlining at the US Celtic Festival, as well as other big deal performing opportunities.

Momentum is something they have in spades—and it’s easy to see why their music carried them as far as it did. It’s great for gathering. It’s great for having some drinks. It’s great for many of the things we need to nourish relationships and ease the soul from the troubles of the day. They definitely fill a need in the musical genre!

The song that made the list this year is: “Fields of St. James” from Jump at the Sun

Syr is very different from many of the groups on this list. They have a very big, almost cinematic feel to the music they play, and it’s moving. While they are called Celtic Folk Rock, the themes they deal with are deep and varied. Those in the mood for something that will pull you in musically will find the call of this group’s music irresistible. It can be loud and powerful, but it also feels very profound and emotional.

Although Syr puts out music that has a lot going on—it always feels purposeful and thoughtfully done. This makes such a big difference and is in large part why it has such a big impact. Great stuff!

The song that made the list this year is: “Revenant” from Sentinel

That fact that Seattle’s Ockham’s Razor makes an appearance here is no surprise. A long-time fan favorite, this group delivers a completely unique musical experience. There’s such a blend of musical styles going on here—but with the unmistakeable influence of Celtic flavor. The vibe goes from rock to punk to Irish—many times cycling throughout the same song—swirling and whirring away. What could be a mash-up that is confusing and chaotic, is instead delightful and energizing!

Truthfully there is a feeling of excitement when listening to this group play. You never quite know where they’re going to go with a song, and in this particular case—that’s really a good thing. They still have a signature sound, but they blend things differently depending on the song they play. It all works!

The song that made the list this year is: “Fire in the Kitchen” from Secrets and Silence

Well that’s a wrap! It has been great to bring you the top 20 here today, and hopefully you’ve found something new to check out here. There’s nothing quite like expanding your musical horizons and adding to your lineup of great bands. The New Year is likely to have plenty more to offer!

Before we sign off here, lets have a listen to We Banjo 3 playing “Wynne’s” from their live album Roots to Rise…another gem! Thanks, as always for listening.

We Banjo 3 “Wynne's (Live)” from Roots to Rise (Live)

You can follow the Best Celtic Music of 2022 playlist on Spotify.

Or subscribe to the Irish & Celtic Music: Best of 2023 to find out what's new this year.

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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 for the Celtic Music Magazine for nearly 15 years. You can reach her through her website at CatherineLTully.com.

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