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The Great Irish Songbook – DVD
Acclaimed Irish band Dervish and special guests David Gray, Imelda May, Moya Brennan (of Clannad), Indigo Girls, Brian Kennedy, Kate Rusby and more celebrate the uniquely powerful Irish tradition of song, a tradition as popular in America as it is at home. Dervish have devoted the last three decades to gently reinventing the traditional songs of their homeland. Featuring stunning footage of Ireland and filmed at the London Palladium, Dublin’s National Concert Hall, and more intimate venues like Leo’s Tavern in Donegal.
Reflecting the American experience for almost two centuries, Irish and American music are inextricably intertwined. In fact, the boundary is not always discernible, and the program includes “Boots of Spanish Leather,” a Bob Dylan song that is inherently in the Irish tradition. Through song and commentary from the musicians and actor Adrian Dunbar, the enduring appeal of Irish music is illuminated.
Highlights include “Passage West,” featuring Dervish with Indigo Girls, a song about love, longing and emigration to America written by John Spillane, who joins in on the performance. Another major highlight is the world premiere of “Tabor an tSaoil (The Well of the World).” Written by Clannad’s Moya Brennan and her daughter Aisling Jarvis, the song is performed for the first ever time in public at the legendary music mecca Leo’s Tavern, owned by Moya’s father and considered the launch pad for Clannad. Imelda May’s moving rendition of “Molly Malone”; and a bravura display of emotional vocal artistry by five singers on “The Parting Glass” should not be missed.
