Best of the Chieftains [1992]

The Chieftains: Kevin Cunniffe (vocals, bodhran, lilting); Sean Keane, Martin Fay (fiddle); Derek Bell (harp, timpan, oboe); Mick Tubridy (flute, tin whistle, concertina); Matt Molloy (flute); Paddy Moloney (Uilleann pipes, tin whistle); Sean Potts (tin whistle);
Producer: Paddy Moloney
Reissue producer: Lawrence Cohn.
Includes liner notes by David McGee.
Digitally remastered by David Mitson (Sony Music Studios, Los Angeles, California).
The Chieftains are the leading practitioners of traditional Irish music throughout the world, having broken down musical and cultural barriers to bring it to world audiences since the early 1960s. This BEST OF collection highlights some of their most riveting work. Whether with Paddy Moloney's virtuoso Uilleann piping, or Kevin Cunniffe's superb Gaelic singing, this ensemble has really made an impact on Ireland and the world.
Standout tracks on BEST OF include the very exciting "Boil the Breakfast Early," a reel that features a wonderful bodhran (goatskin frame drum) introduction by Cunniffe and Matt Molloy's silken flute playing. The lovely slow air "Speic Seoigheach" spotlights Moloney on tin whistle and Derek Bell on medieval harp. It's at once carefree and melancholy, conjuring romantic visions of small town life in old Eire.
Q (May 2002, p.127) - 4 out of 5 stars - "...[This] group bring[s] traditional Irish folk to a mainstram audience....dipping in and out...can be bliss..."