| On Water from the Well, Paddy Moloney and the Chieftains return to the
traditional Irish music that first made their reputations in the early
60s. Unlike most of their recordings from the 1990s there is nary a rock
star, folk singer, or symphony orchestra to be found. Instead the Chieftains
have chosen to play with some of Ireland's finest musicians, including
Barney McKenna, Seamus Begley, Altan, and the Kilfenora Ceili Band. Here
the Chieftains cover the entire spectrum of Irish traditional music, from
a stately version of "Planxty George Brabazon" with the Belfast Harp Orchestra
to a raucous session in flautist Matt Molloy's pub to a number of ballads
sweetly sung by Kevin Conneff. The Chieftains have always performed at
the highest level, but on Water from the Well the combination of familiar
tunes and great musical guests seems to have inspired them to some of
their best playing in years. |
