Maybe three new CDs by Irish artists don't count as new music galore, but galore comes from the Irish “go leor,” and is fun to say. Here are my extremely quick, non-thoughtful takes from a quick listen to each.
Sinead O'Connor, "How About I Be Me (and You Be You)?" Good album, with a lot of interesting lyrics, though intense at times (surprise!). But the opening track, "4th and Vine" is pure fun. The very end is so religious I felt I could either skip Mass this week, or I need an exorcism. I'm not sure. I like the title.
The Cranberries, "Roses": Very mellow. "Zombie" this isn't. The lyrics range from banal love songs to was she on drugs when she wrote this or what? But the sound is lovely.
The Chieftains, "Voice of Ages": This album is heavy on deedly-dee and country music, two of my least favorite genres, but "School Days Over," with The Low Anthem (whoever they might be) is terrific. They performed it on Letterman last week. I can't think of another TV venue where I more enjoy watching a good musical performance, because Dave seems genuinely honored to be in the audience. Check out the clip below -- Dave congratulates The Chieftains (presumably on their 50th anniversary as a band) and says "What a wonderful organization!" As usual, the Chieftains collaborate with a number of musicians on this album, including Bon Iver, The Civil Wars, The Decemberists, and the Carolina Chocolate Drops (mmmmm).
No wonder The Chieftains have been going fifty years, they're reproducing! My projections have 50% of the population of the world in 2105 being in the band.
Posted by: NorthernOutlaw | May 11, 2012 at 11:44 PM
I hope I live to see it.
Posted by: MB | May 13, 2012 at 11:36 PM