The Kilfenora Céilí Band
Live in Lisdoonvarna
Dolphin Records TOLCD 15; 48 minutes; 2002
Though
it is a question might seem heretical to some, what is the point of céilí band
albums? After all, céilí bands provide music for dancing and, in listening terms,
they really are the thrash metal of traditional music. They’re about as subtle
as a flying mallet and their albums seem to test endurance to the limit. 
That
being said, the Kilfenora is clearly one of the best of the bunch and this
album captures the band in its natural environment, a dance at The Royal Spa in
Lisdoonvarna, playing for a host of enthusiastic dancers.
The
band includes some talented musicians in their own right (Garry Shannon on
flute and accordionist Conor McCarthy) and they do try and mix the jigs and reels with some alternatives,
such as the Kilrush Polkas and a set of waltzes called The Atlantic.
Both
the music and the arrangements are tight and they contrive to avoid that
dreadful céilí band ‘plod’ which is often inflicted upon slower tunes. In other
words, the Kilfenora knows how to set a pace which makes this an album ideal
for dance practice.
As
for repeated listening? Never.
Geoff Wallis
13th
July, 2004
For
more information about the Kilfenora CB visit www.kilfenoraceiliband.com.
Dolphin
Records’ website is www.irelandcd.com.