Andy Irvine And Paul Brady (1976)

review ~ Amazone.com
When I first heard this album, on its release, 25 years ago, I knew immediately that it would doubtless stand the test of time. Andy Irvine and Paul Brady were (and still are) some of the finest musicians/singers that Ireland has produced, and to have multi-instrumentalist/genius Donal Lunny and fiddle great Kevin Burke along for the session is simply icing on the cake.

There are great instrumental tunes on this disc, as well as some of the greatest songs in the seemingly bottomless well that Irish singers have been digging for centuries. The songs are delivered in wonderful style by both singers – these two men's voices have become legendary in the genre. Andy was a founding member of both Planxy and Patrick Street, two incredible Irish bands who have given the world so much amazing music over the last 30 years. Paul also did a short stint with Planxty, and has blossomed into one of Ireland's most resepected singer-songwriters. Hearing the work of either of them is a treat – hearing them together is heaven..

The album kicks off with the charming 'Plains of Kildare', the story of a talking racehorse, sung in grand style by Andy. Paul follows with 'Lough Erne shore', a classic Irish love ballad, beautifully delivered. Paul's version of the anti-recruiting ballad 'Arthur McBride' has become the standard by which other renditions are judged. 'Mary and the soldier', sung here by Paul, has found its way into the repertoire of contemporary folkie Lucy Kaplansky (on her FLESH AND BONE cd).

There are several other standouts among the songs on this disc, but mention should also be made of the great instrumental tunes, where all the players are given a chance to shine. 'Fred Finn's reel/Sailing into Walpole's Marsh' contains some stunning interplay between Paul's guitar and the flying fiddle of Kevin Burke; and Donal Lunny's trademark bouzouki work is present throughout the disc.

From beginning to end and back again, this is a disc that bears repeated listening, which will continue to be a milestone in Irish music. Amazon's buying info indicates that this disc is perhaps out of print, and as such, might be hard to find – it's worth the search, believe me!