The Furey Brothers (Finbar, Eddie, George and Paul) together with guitarist, Davey Arthur were unique in Irish music in that they combined brilliant ballad singing with gifted instrumental performances. There are many great ballads groups in Irish music including The Clancy Brothers & Tommy Makem and The Wolfe Tones. But their instrumental support was usually limited to guitar, banjo and tinwhistle. The Fureys on the other hand included uilleann pipes, accordion, mandolin and spoons as well as banjo and guitars. To appreciate the importance of their instrumental support consider two examples from this album. Their mega hit, Sweet Sixteen (which went to #1 on the British charts) is probably as well remembered for the banjo introduction as for Finbar’s sensitive vocals. Paul’s dazzling continental accordion stylings sets the tone for Red Rose Cafe. Further proof is The Lonesome Boatman, which was composed by Finbar and is in many ways the precursor of new-age music. Finbar’s stunning performance on steel whistle is complimented by the evocative background of his brothers and Davey Arthur.

All of their brilliant ballads can be found on this double album: Some of them such as Gallipoli, The Green Fields of France and The Grand Affair have become part of the Irish repertoire only because they were performed by The Fureys Brothers. Other tracks, like The Leaving of Nancy, Yesterday's Men, Song For Ireland, Love is Pleasing and Dublin are very Irish in their origin. Phil Coulter produced several of The Fureys albums and two of his best known songs were written specifically for them by Phil. The Fureys were the first to record The Old Man and Steal Away. Many other memorable songs are included among the 34 tracks on this double album. It is a true feast for the ears and the soul.

BAN 6160 Double-CD $20

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