Sounds of the Celts

If you’d like the sounds of Irish music but don’t know much beyond “Danny Boy,” here’s a few essentials to get your collection started:

Anything by the Clancy Brothers: These lads were a part of the old Greenwich Village folk scene. Irish immigrants all, they and frequent collaborator Tommy Makem introduced the U.S. to a range of traditional material, ranging from melancholy ballads to raucous drinking songs. With more than 50 albums to their credit, you’re bound to find one on hand!

Christy Moore - Live at the Point: Moore is one of Ireland’s best-loved artists, and this live recording is him at his best. Some of the songs are timeless classics, others are just fun. He does an amazing job of bridging the gap between traditional balladeers and modern singer-songwriters.

The Pogues - The Very Best of the Pogues: The Pogues pioneered a loud, rowdy fusion of rock, punk and traditional music that has once again become popular in bands like Flogging Molly and Dropkick Murphy. This is a fine collection showcasing the bands superb songwriting, musical virtuosity, and sheer attitude at its best.