it will do for now, 11 Nov 2008
the best Xmas cd on the market at present - but not as good as the red cover Best Christmas Album in the World Ever which came out in 1995ish. To be fair this one has virtually everything but misses several key tracks - Shakin Steven's Merry Christmas Everyone, The Pretenders 2000 Mile and the Wham version of Last Christmas. It would be in bad taste for me to complain that theres no Rock and Roll Christmas by Gary Glitter but there you go. Other than these exceptions it has everything.

i think that sony bmg should grow up..., 17 Dec 2007
i think that sony bmg should grow up and let mariah carey and wham onto this album instead of trying to make us buy christmas hits. shame on you sony bmg for ruining the best xmas album!

what a disappointment ?!, 04 Dec 2007
Although there are some good tracks on this compilation, overall I was disappointed. These CDs are full of dodgy cover versions of Christmas greats....spare me the elevator version of "Last Christmas". Poor show.

Full Of Xmas Joy!, 15 Nov 2007
I LOVE this album, almost every christmas song you could want is on here. The only two songs that deserve to be extra on here are Wham!'s Last Christmas and Mariah Carey's All I Want. Other than that this is a faultless album. So long as you love christmas and a little bit of cheese this is definintely worth getting, and the price makes it an absolute bargin!!!!!!!!

3 Great Festive CD's, 23 Oct 2007
So Here It Is ..Merry Xmas everyone. Put some logs on the fire and this on the CD Player then settle back in my fave armchair to re-read A Christmas Carol / It's Cold Outisde with a warm glass of Mulled Wine and a mince pie

it will do for now, 11 Nov 2008
the best Xmas cd on the market at present - but not as good as the red cover Best Christmas Album in the World Ever which came out in 1995ish. To be fair this one has virtually everything but misses several key tracks - Shakin Steven's Merry Christmas Everyone, The Pretenders 2000 Mile and the Wham version of Last Christmas. It would be in bad taste for me to complain that theres no Rock and Roll Christmas by Gary Glitter but there you go. Other than these exceptions it has everything.

i think that sony bmg should grow up..., 17 Dec 2007
i think that sony bmg should grow up and let mariah carey and wham onto this album instead of trying to make us buy christmas hits. shame on you sony bmg for ruining the best xmas album!

what a disappointment ?!, 04 Dec 2007
Although there are some good tracks on this compilation, overall I was disappointed. These CDs are full of dodgy cover versions of Christmas greats....spare me the elevator version of "Last Christmas". Poor show.

Full Of Xmas Joy!, 15 Nov 2007
I LOVE this album, almost every christmas song you could want is on here. The only two songs that deserve to be extra on here are Wham!'s Last Christmas and Mariah Carey's All I Want. Other than that this is a faultless album. So long as you love christmas and a little bit of cheese this is definintely worth getting, and the price makes it an absolute bargin!!!!!!!!

3 Great Festive CD's, 23 Oct 2007
So Here It Is ..Merry Xmas everyone. Put some logs on the fire and this on the CD Player then settle back in my fave armchair to re-read A Christmas Carol / It's Cold Outisde with a warm glass of Mulled Wine and a mince pie

Better late than never, 22 Oct 2008
Spotted in a bookshop in Bakewell, Derbyshire. There wasn't a "2" was there? So I bought it. And it's hardly been off in the car since. I agree with other reviewers that not every song here is a gem, but the Lucas numbers do have something that stirs the sentiments. (You who said he wasn't a great songwriter, I present exhibit A - "Bring 'em Down" on Fairport 9). It's true though that it's the Denny tracks that really stir the soul. Her remarkable ability to interpret a song never disappoints on this disc.

With all the emotion in the vocals, and all the Telecaster Pyrotechnics of the genius Donahue, it's easy to ignore the superb foundation on which this edifice is built. British folk-rock music has provided some of the best rhythm sections in the world. Conway and Donaldson excel on this album, always supporting, always enhancing, always driving, and never overwhelming. And as to the production values, the three remaining members deserve a medal for obtaining a purity of sound that 21st century ears won't baulk at, while retaining the essential feel and style of a '70's recording.

I doubt you'll be disappointed if you buy it. For me, it's a minor masterpiece.

flawed but still a must-buy, 16 Oct 2008
The unexpected release of this CD is undoubtedly the folk event of 2008. It's a throwback to an idyllic time when folk music was inventive and exciting unlike the sterile unimaginative stuff of the last 30 years - Eliza Carthy and the sadly defunct 18th Day of May being honourable exceptions.Buy it? Of course buy it.
There are negatives. Some of the tracks will be already familiar to us all - "John the Gun" and "Late November" feature on Sandy's magical "Northstar Grassman" album. The Strawbs "Two Weeks" also can be found as a bonus track on Fotheringay 1. But the greatest fault is the inclusion of two very poor tracks. For me "Wild Mountain Thyme" is an insipid thing , even if Sandy sings it.As an Irishman I loved how Sandy interpreted our old ballad "She Moved through the Fair" with the Fairports. Compare that with this piece of Scottish "late night too many drams" drowsiness.
But far worse is the truly dire "Silver Threads". How could such a gifted songwriter bring herself to sing such pap. Compare the bland lyrics and juvenile imagery here to her own high poetry in "Late November". The band might have saved this but they appear to quickly lose interest. The backing is listless , at best dutiful.Except Donahue's final notes of joyous relief.
But there is brilliance too. The best track I've heard for years is the minor epic "Bold Jack Donahue". Trevor Lucas is the villian of the piece for many Sandy/Fairport fans - the Oz who plucked the English rose , broke up the Fairports and later Sandy's career and heart etc. Joe Boyd is no fan.In his book "White Bicycles" (pp228-229) Boyd sees Lucas as a talentless, exploitative guy who turned Sandy into "a nervous wreck". Boyd was a superb producer but I think he's unfair , at least on the issue of talent. Trevor is a great singer. His delivery of "Polly on the Shore" on FC's "Nine" album was superb. "Bold Jack" is similar - Lucas owns the ballad from first to last and his interpretation is blindingly good.The band really get into it too , with some superb riffs and grace notes from the sublime Jerry Donahue. I also felt Lucas stole the show on Fotheringay 1 with his interpretation of "The Way I Feel" (described by Boyd as "filler" !!).Anyway if Sandy loved him - that must count for something.
Finally there is the best Black Jack Davey version you'll ever hear. Mind you ,the You Tube clip of "Gypsy Davey" is even better than this studio version. The live performance is incredibly good and Jerry's solo before the final verse is outstanding. See this clip and realise just how good this band was - you'll definitely want this CD in your collection.

Tyme to move the mountains back where they belong, 15 Oct 2008
Sandy Denny's demo of 'Wild Mountain Tyme' that I heard on Youtube recently is one of the most beautiful renditions of a traditional folk ballad I have ever heard. I could not wait to hear it in pristine condition on 'Fotheringay 2'. Jerry Donahue and the guys have done a fine job of adding some beautiful instrumentation to the track but..shock horror...it is ruined when a deep male voice harmonises under Sandy's voice. I could not believe it, as a track that had a sound conjuring beautiful Gaelic imagery is suddenly turned into Aslan the Lion (the deep voice,) bounding out of the hedgerows turning the piece into a christian singalong. The deep voice singer can sing but it was so disappointing for me to hear an outside voice on top of Sandy's performance that I am so used to hearing her sing 'solo'.
Personal preferences aside, Jerry Donahue and the rest of the group have done a top notch job in delicately adding eloquent instrumentation to both 'John The Gun' and 'Silver Threads and Golden Needles' which is a very strong piece of work. Although at first the many clicks that can be heard and Denny's vocal on Verse Two of 'John The Gun' that is chopped up, (probably because of the age of the master tape,) is slightly distracting, on second onwards listening they are scarcely noticeable.
As majestic as the bands playing is, revamping the old master tapes, I do not feel that this is a five star album, although I do think it is a very fine and admirable one nonetheless.

Denny is always welcomed but..., 14 Oct 2008
Fotheringay Vol.2

First, this is not an unfinished album, but the collection of leftovers from BBC sessions, not "originally recorded at Sound Techniques" as quoted, at least most of the tracks weren't. "John The Gun" was from November 1970 BBC, but with recently overdubbed sax(?!) in the vain of similarly tempered "Gold Dust" concert where, apart from Sandy's voice, just the bits were from the original concert. "Eppy Moray" and wonderful "Wild Mountain Thyme" were the versions from BBC April 1970, and Fairport concert standard "Knights On The Road" definitely didn't belong here same as "Restless". Frankly, I believe that these two tracks were recorded by Trevor Lucas after Fotheringay disbanded, because Fotheringay never performed these tunes, nor live nor on BBC. Also, it sounds as some of the instruments were recorded much more recently that 1970, same as "I Don't Believe You". "Late November", "Gypsy Davey" and "Two Weeks Last Summer" were recorded during 1st album sessions and were not the part of BBC sessions.

Still, I see this as an essential addition to every decent collection of Sandy Denny, although definitely not as the previously unfinished second album of Fotheringay. If Mr. Donahue wanted to assemble the collection of what was left behind he could use brilliant "Lowlands Of Holland" from BBC Folk On One or folk-rock version of "Memphis Tennesee". I am sure that their inclusion would make this compilation better value for money.



Raking over the ashes, 14 Oct 2008
I don't think this was worth doing, although Sandy Denny had a wonderful voice there isn't much here than will bear repeated listening. Silver Threads and Golden Needles gains nothing from a dirge-like tempo, it is a country song; Trevor Lucas's voice really sets my teeth on edge and the vaunted sax solo has too many technical deficiencies. I suppose what I am trying to say is enjoy Sandy in her prime with Fairport, not this second rate pastiche. And surely she knew that Fotheringhay isn't in Scotland!

Over the years this Irish folk band has recorded with James Galway, Roger Daltrey, Nanci Griffith, Elvis Costello, Willie Nelson, and many more. For The Long Black Veil, they made their biggest haul yet: the Rolling Stones, Van Morrison, Marianne Faithfull, Mark Knopfler, Sinead O'Connor, Tom Jones, Sting, and Ry Cooder. Knopfler, Faithfull, and O'Connor wander off-key in their vocals. Sting, Jones, and Mick Jagger stay on key in theirs, but never quite connect with their chosen songs nor with the ancient folk tradition the Chieftains tap into each time they play. A powerful musical connection is forged three times on the album, however. Morrison patiently builds his own "Have I Told You Lately That I Love You?" to a grand climax over flute and pipes; Ry Cooder adds a mysterious Mideastern guitar part to an instrumental version of "Dunmore Lasses;" and on "The Rocky Road to Dublin," Charlie Watts's ceili-swing drumming holds together a loose adventurous jam session which features Kevin Coneff's lead vocal and wild exchanges of the Chieftains' twin fiddles and the Rolling Stones' guitars. Three epiphanies may not be enough to justify the Long Black Veil project, but you can find a whole album of such moments on Van Morrison & the Chieftains' 1988 Irish Heartbeat, one of the greatest Irish recordings ever made. --Geoffrey Himes

it will do for now, 11 Nov 2008
the best Xmas cd on the market at present - but not as good as the red cover Best Christmas Album in the World Ever which came out in 1995ish. To be fair this one has virtually everything but misses several key tracks - Shakin Steven's Merry Christmas Everyone, The Pretenders 2000 Mile and the Wham version of Last Christmas. It would be in bad taste for me to complain that theres no Rock and Roll Christmas by Gary Glitter but there you go. Other than these exceptions it has everything.

i think that sony bmg should grow up..., 17 Dec 2007
i think that sony bmg should grow up and let mariah carey and wham onto this album instead of trying to make us buy christmas hits. shame on you sony bmg for ruining the best xmas album!

what a disappointment ?!, 04 Dec 2007
Although there are some good tracks on this compilation, overall I was disappointed. These CDs are full of dodgy cover versions of Christmas greats....spare me the elevator version of "Last Christmas". Poor show.

Full Of Xmas Joy!, 15 Nov 2007
I LOVE this album, almost every christmas song you could want is on here. The only two songs that deserve to be extra on here are Wham!'s Last Christmas and Mariah Carey's All I Want. Other than that this is a faultless album. So long as you love christmas and a little bit of cheese this is definintely worth getting, and the price makes it an absolute bargin!!!!!!!!

3 Great Festive CD's, 23 Oct 2007
So Here It Is ..Merry Xmas everyone. Put some logs on the fire and this on the CD Player then settle back in my fave armchair to re-read A Christmas Carol / It's Cold Outisde with a warm glass of Mulled Wine and a mince pie

Better late than never, 22 Oct 2008
Spotted in a bookshop in Bakewell, Derbyshire. There wasn't a "2" was there? So I bought it. And it's hardly been off in the car since. I agree with other reviewers that not every song here is a gem, but the Lucas numbers do have something that stirs the sentiments. (You who said he wasn't a great songwriter, I present exhibit A - "Bring 'em Down" on Fairport 9). It's true though that it's the Denny tracks that really stir the soul. Her remarkable ability to interpret a song never disappoints on this disc.

With all the emotion in the vocals, and all the Telecaster Pyrotechnics of the genius Donahue, it's easy to ignore the superb foundation on which this edifice is built. British folk-rock music has provided some of the best rhythm sections in the world. Conway and Donaldson excel on this album, always supporting, always enhancing, always driving, and never overwhelming. And as to the production values, the three remaining members deserve a medal for obtaining a purity of sound that 21st century ears won't baulk at, while retaining the essential feel and style of a '70's recording.

I doubt you'll be disappointed if you buy it. For me, it's a minor masterpiece.

flawed but still a must-buy, 16 Oct 2008
The unexpected release of this CD is undoubtedly the folk event of 2008. It's a throwback to an idyllic time when folk music was inventive and exciting unlike the sterile unimaginative stuff of the last 30 years - Eliza Carthy and the sadly defunct 18th Day of May being honourable exceptions.Buy it? Of course buy it.
There are negatives. Some of the tracks will be already familiar to us all - "John the Gun" and "Late November" feature on Sandy's magical "Northstar Grassman" album. The Strawbs "Two Weeks" also can be found as a bonus track on Fotheringay 1. But the greatest fault is the inclusion of two very poor tracks. For me "Wild Mountain Thyme" is an insipid thing , even if Sandy sings it.As an Irishman I loved how Sandy interpreted our old ballad "She Moved through the Fair" with the Fairports. Compare that with this piece of Scottish "late night too many drams" drowsiness.
But far worse is the truly dire "Silver Threads". How could such a gifted songwriter bring herself to sing such pap. Compare the bland lyrics and juvenile imagery here to her own high poetry in "Late November". The band might have saved this but they appear to quickly lose interest. The backing is listless , at best dutiful.Except Donahue's final notes of joyous relief.
But there is brilliance too. The best track I've heard for years is the minor epic "Bold Jack Donahue". Trevor Lucas is the villian of the piece for many Sandy/Fairport fans - the Oz who plucked the English rose , broke up the Fairports and later Sandy's career and heart etc. Joe Boyd is no fan.In his book "White Bicycles" (pp228-229) Boyd sees Lucas as a talentless, exploitative guy who turned Sandy into "a nervous wreck". Boyd was a superb producer but I think he's unfair , at least on the issue of talent. Trevor is a great singer. His delivery of "Polly on the Shore" on FC's "Nine" album was superb. "Bold Jack" is similar - Lucas owns the ballad from first to last and his interpretation is blindingly good.The band really get into it too , with some superb riffs and grace notes from the sublime Jerry Donahue. I also felt Lucas stole the show on Fotheringay 1 with his interpretation of "The Way I Feel" (described by Boyd as "filler" !!).Anyway if Sandy loved him - that must count for something.
Finally there is the best Black Jack Davey version you'll ever hear. Mind you ,the You Tube clip of "Gypsy Davey" is even better than this studio version. The live performance is incredibly good and Jerry's solo before the final verse is outstanding. See this clip and realise just how good this band was - you'll definitely want this CD in your collection.

Tyme to move the mountains back where they belong, 15 Oct 2008
Sandy Denny's demo of 'Wild Mountain Tyme' that I heard on Youtube recently is one of the most beautiful renditions of a traditional folk ballad I have ever heard. I could not wait to hear it in pristine condition on 'Fotheringay 2'. Jerry Donahue and the guys have done a fine job of adding some beautiful instrumentation to the track but..shock horror...it is ruined when a deep male voice harmonises under Sandy's voice. I could not believe it, as a track that had a sound conjuring beautiful Gaelic imagery is suddenly turned into Aslan the Lion (the deep voice,) bounding out of the hedgerows turning the piece into a christian singalong. The deep voice singer can sing but it was so disappointing for me to hear an outside voice on top of Sandy's performance that I am so used to hearing her sing 'solo'.
Personal preferences aside, Jerry Donahue and the rest of the group have done a top notch job in delicately adding eloquent instrumentation to both 'John The Gun' and 'Silver Threads and Golden Needles' which is a very strong piece of work. Although at first the many clicks that can be heard and Denny's vocal on Verse Two of 'John The Gun' that is chopped up, (probably because of the age of the master tape,) is slightly distracting, on second onwards listening they are scarcely noticeable.
As majestic as the bands playing is, revamping the old master tapes, I do not feel that this is a five star album, although I do think it is a very fine and admirable one nonetheless.

Denny is always welcomed but..., 14 Oct 2008
Fotheringay Vol.2

First, this is not an unfinished album, but the collection of leftovers from BBC sessions, not "originally recorded at Sound Techniques" as quoted, at least most of the tracks weren't. "John The Gun" was from November 1970 BBC, but with recently overdubbed sax(?!) in the vain of similarly tempered "Gold Dust" concert where, apart from Sandy's voice, just the bits were from the original concert. "Eppy Moray" and wonderful "Wild Mountain Thyme" were the versions from BBC April 1970, and Fairport concert standard "Knights On The Road" definitely didn't belong here same as "Restless". Frankly, I believe that these two tracks were recorded by Trevor Lucas after Fotheringay disbanded, because Fotheringay never performed these tunes, nor live nor on BBC. Also, it sounds as some of the instruments were recorded much more recently that 1970, same as "I Don't Believe You". "Late November", "Gypsy Davey" and "Two Weeks Last Summer" were recorded during 1st album sessions and were not the part of BBC sessions.

Still, I see this as an essential addition to every decent collection of Sandy Denny, although definitely not as the previously unfinished second album of Fotheringay. If Mr. Donahue wanted to assemble the collection of what was left behind he could use brilliant "Lowlands Of Holland" from BBC Folk On One or folk-rock version of "Memphis Tennesee". I am sure that their inclusion would make this compilation better value for money.



Raking over the ashes, 14 Oct 2008
I don't think this was worth doing, although Sandy Denny had a wonderful voice there isn't much here than will bear repeated listening. Silver Threads and Golden Needles gains nothing from a dirge-like tempo, it is a country song; Trevor Lucas's voice really sets my teeth on edge and the vaunted sax solo has too many technical deficiencies. I suppose what I am trying to say is enjoy Sandy in her prime with Fairport, not this second rate pastiche. And surely she knew that Fotheringhay isn't in Scotland!

WOW...SIMPLY AMAZING!, 10 Nov 2002
This is a terrific CD, with its wild meld of celtic, pop, folk, and country strains. The Chieftains, accompanied by such music greats as Sting, Mick Jagger, Sinead O'Connor, The Rolling Stones, Marianne Faithfull, Tom Jones, Van Morrison, among others...who would have thought such an assemblage would result in such a cohesive recording of such wildly divergent music? Of particular note are Sting's mournful rendition of "Mo Ghile Mear" and Sinead O'Connor's stylization of "The Foggy Dew" and "He Moved Through The Fair". Mick Jagger also does justice to "A Long Black Veil". This CD is simply a great recording overall!

Fiddles, whistles and rock stars!, 27 Apr 2001
This CD certainly proves that The Chieftains have friends in high places! This album is packed full of rock stars (Mick Jagger, Sting, Sinead O' Connor, Van Morrison, Mark Knopfler, Tom Jones and Marianne Faithfull) singing traditional Irish songs. This is an interesting album and the songs do work better than I expected them too. This is a lively collection of songs and none of the artists sound out of place, but I think I would still prefer hearing these songs sung by folk singers. Nonetheless this is a good introduction to The Chieftain's style of music and an essential buy if you are a fan of the artists involved.

One of the elements that's made the Chieftains the stellar Celtic band in the world is their love of innovative collaborations with mainstream pop stars. The Wide World Over: A 40-Year Celebration gathers into a single collection some of the Irish ensemble's most memorable moments, including predictable alliances with artists such as Van Morrison, who sings "Shenandoah", to additional backing by the Irish Film Orchestra and unlikely pairings like the Rolling Stones, who add a rock kick and the "Satisfaction" riff to "The Rocky Road To Dublin". Cross-cultural experts Linda Ronstadt and Los Lobos demonstrate their versatility on the Mexican ditties "Txalaparta" and "Guadalupe", on which pipes and pennywhistle don't seem a whisker out of place, while Ricky Skaggs points to the Irish and British roots of American country music on the rousing "Cotton-Eyed Joe". Art Garfunkel, Sting, Sinead O'Connor, Joni Mitchell and Elvis Costello are also featured in classic performances with the band, while a brand-new collaboration with Ziggy Marley yields a gorgeous Don-Was-produced rendition of Bob Marley's "Redemption Song". The cliché that there's a bit of the Irish in all of us proves true in this wide-ranging, constantly rewarding and frequently surprising collection. And the tracks on which the Chieftains go it alone are also a gas. --Bob Tarte

it will do for now, 11 Nov 2008
the best Xmas cd on the market at present - but not as good as the red cover Best Christmas Album in the World Ever which came out in 1995ish. To be fair this one has virtually everything but misses several key tracks - Shakin Steven's Merry Christmas Everyone, The Pretenders 2000 Mile and the Wham version of Last Christmas. It would be in bad taste for me to complain that theres no Rock and Roll Christmas by Gary Glitter but there you go. Other than these exceptions it has everything.

i think that sony bmg should grow up..., 17 Dec 2007
i think that sony bmg should grow up and let mariah carey and wham onto this album instead of trying to make us buy christmas hits. shame on you sony bmg for ruining the best xmas album!

what a disappointment ?!, 04 Dec 2007
Although there are some good tracks on this compilation, overall I was disappointed. These CDs are full of dodgy cover versions of Christmas greats....spare me the elevator version of "Last Christmas". Poor show.

Full Of Xmas Joy!, 15 Nov 2007
I LOVE this album, almost every christmas song you could want is on here. The only two songs that deserve to be extra on here are Wham!'s Last Christmas and Mariah Carey's All I Want. Other than that this is a faultless album. So long as you love christmas and a little bit of cheese this is definintely worth getting, and the price makes it an absolute bargin!!!!!!!!

3 Great Festive CD's, 23 Oct 2007
So Here It Is ..Merry Xmas everyone. Put some logs on the fire and this on the CD Player then settle back in my fave armchair to re-read A Christmas Carol / It's Cold Outisde with a warm glass of Mulled Wine and a mince pie

Better late than never, 22 Oct 2008
Spotted in a bookshop in Bakewell, Derbyshire. There wasn't a "2" was there? So I bought it. And it's hardly been off in the car since. I agree with other reviewers that not every song here is a gem, but the Lucas numbers do have something that stirs the sentiments. (You who said he wasn't a great songwriter, I present exhibit A - "Bring 'em Down" on Fairport 9). It's true though that it's the Denny tracks that really stir the soul. Her remarkable ability to interpret a song never disappoints on this disc.

With all the emotion in the vocals, and all the Telecaster Pyrotechnics of the genius Donahue, it's easy to ignore the superb foundation on which this edifice is built. British folk-rock music has provided some of the best rhythm sections in the world. Conway and Donaldson excel on this album, always supporting, always enhancing, always driving, and never overwhelming. And as to the production values, the three remaining members deserve a medal for obtaining a purity of sound that 21st century ears won't baulk at, while retaining the essential feel and style of a '70's recording.

I doubt you'll be disappointed if you buy it. For me, it's a minor masterpiece.

flawed but still a must-buy, 16 Oct 2008
The unexpected release of this CD is undoubtedly the folk event of 2008. It's a throwback to an idyllic time when folk music was inventive and exciting unlike the sterile unimaginative stuff of the last 30 years - Eliza Carthy and the sadly defunct 18th Day of May being honourable exceptions.Buy it? Of course buy it.
There are negatives. Some of the tracks will be already familiar to us all - "John the Gun" and "Late November" feature on Sandy's magical "Northstar Grassman" album. The Strawbs "Two Weeks" also can be found as a bonus track on Fotheringay 1. But the greatest fault is the inclusion of two very poor tracks. For me "Wild Mountain Thyme" is an insipid thing , even if Sandy sings it.As an Irishman I loved how Sandy interpreted our old ballad "She Moved through the Fair" with the Fairports. Compare that with this piece of Scottish "late night too many drams" drowsiness.
But far worse is the truly dire "Silver Threads". How could such a gifted songwriter bring herself to sing such pap. Compare the bland lyrics and juvenile imagery here to her own high poetry in "Late November". The band might have saved this but they appear to quickly lose interest. The backing is listless , at best dutiful.Except Donahue's final notes of joyous relief.
But there is brilliance too. The best track I've heard for years is the minor epic "Bold Jack Donahue". Trevor Lucas is the villian of the piece for many Sandy/Fairport fans - the Oz who plucked the English rose , broke up the Fairports and later Sandy's career and heart etc. Joe Boyd is no fan.In his book "White Bicycles" (pp228-229) Boyd sees Lucas as a talentless, exploitative guy who turned Sandy into "a nervous wreck". Boyd was a superb producer but I think he's unfair , at least on the issue of talent. Trevor is a great singer. His delivery of "Polly on the Shore" on FC's "Nine" album was superb. "Bold Jack" is similar - Lucas owns the ballad from first to last and his interpretation is blindingly good.The band really get into it too , with some superb riffs and grace notes from the sublime Jerry Donahue. I also felt Lucas stole the show on Fotheringay 1 with his interpretation of "The Way I Feel" (described by Boyd as "filler" !!).Anyway if Sandy loved him - that must count for something.
Finally there is the best Black Jack Davey version you'll ever hear. Mind you ,the You Tube clip of "Gypsy Davey" is even better than this studio version. The live performance is incredibly good and Jerry's solo before the final verse is outstanding. See this clip and realise just how good this band was - you'll definitely want this CD in your collection.

Tyme to move the mountains back where they belong, 15 Oct 2008
Sandy Denny's demo of 'Wild Mountain Tyme' that I heard on Youtube recently is one of the most beautiful renditions of a traditional folk ballad I have ever heard. I could not wait to hear it in pristine condition on 'Fotheringay 2'. Jerry Donahue and the guys have done a fine job of adding some beautiful instrumentation to the track but..shock horror...it is ruined when a deep male voice harmonises under Sandy's voice. I could not believe it, as a track that had a sound conjuring beautiful Gaelic imagery is suddenly turned into Aslan the Lion (the deep voice,) bounding out of the hedgerows turning the piece into a christian singalong. The deep voice singer can sing but it was so disappointing for me to hear an outside voice on top of Sandy's performance that I am so used to hearing her sing 'solo'.
Personal preferences aside, Jerry Donahue and the rest of the group have done a top notch job in delicately adding eloquent instrumentation to both 'John The Gun' and 'Silver Threads and Golden Needles' which is a very strong piece of work. Although at first the many clicks that can be heard and Denny's vocal on Verse Two of 'John The Gun' that is chopped up, (probably because of the age of the master tape,) is slightly distracting, on second onwards listening they are scarcely noticeable.
As majestic as the bands playing is, revamping the old master tapes, I do not feel that this is a five star album, although I do think it is a very fine and admirable one nonetheless.

Denny is always welcomed but..., 14 Oct 2008
Fotheringay Vol.2

First, this is not an unfinished album, but the collection of leftovers from BBC sessions, not "originally recorded at Sound Techniques" as quoted, at least most of the tracks weren't. "John The Gun" was from November 1970 BBC, but with recently overdubbed sax(?!) in the vain of similarly tempered "Gold Dust" concert where, apart from Sandy's voice, just the bits were from the original concert. "Eppy Moray" and wonderful "Wild Mountain Thyme" were the versions from BBC April 1970, and Fairport concert standard "Knights On The Road" definitely didn't belong here same as "Restless". Frankly, I believe that these two tracks were recorded by Trevor Lucas after Fotheringay disbanded, because Fotheringay never performed these tunes, nor live nor on BBC. Also, it sounds as some of the instruments were recorded much more recently that 1970, same as "I Don't Believe You". "Late November", "Gypsy Davey" and "Two Weeks Last Summer" were recorded during 1st album sessions and were not the part of BBC sessions.

Still, I see this as an essential addition to every decent collection of Sandy Denny, although definitely not as the previously unfinished second album of Fotheringay. If Mr. Donahue wanted to assemble the collection of what was left behind he could use brilliant "Lowlands Of Holland" from BBC Folk On One or folk-rock version of "Memphis Tennesee". I am sure that their inclusion would make this compilation better value for money.



Raking over the ashes, 14 Oct 2008
I don't think this was worth doing, although Sandy Denny had a wonderful voice there isn't much here than will bear repeated listening. Silver Threads and Golden Needles gains nothing from a dirge-like tempo, it is a country song; Trevor Lucas's voice really sets my teeth on edge and the vaunted sax solo has too many technical deficiencies. I suppose what I am trying to say is enjoy Sandy in her prime with Fairport, not this second rate pastiche. And surely she knew that Fotheringhay isn't in Scotland!

WOW...SIMPLY AMAZING!, 10 Nov 2002
This is a terrific CD, with its wild meld of celtic, pop, folk, and country strains. The Chieftains, accompanied by such music greats as Sting, Mick Jagger, Sinead O'Connor, The Rolling Stones, Marianne Faithfull, Tom Jones, Van Morrison, among others...who would have thought such an assemblage would result in such a cohesive recording of such wildly divergent music? Of particular note are Sting's mournful rendition of "Mo Ghile Mear" and Sinead O'Connor's stylization of "The Foggy Dew" and "He Moved Through The Fair". Mick Jagger also does justice to "A Long Black Veil". This CD is simply a great recording overall!

Fiddles, whistles and rock stars!, 27 Apr 2001
This CD certainly proves that The Chieftains have friends in high places! This album is packed full of rock stars (Mick Jagger, Sting, Sinead O' Connor, Van Morrison, Mark Knopfler, Tom Jones and Marianne Faithfull) singing traditional Irish songs. This is an interesting album and the songs do work better than I expected them too. This is a lively collection of songs and none of the artists sound out of place, but I think I would still prefer hearing these songs sung by folk singers. Nonetheless this is a good introduction to The Chieftain's style of music and an essential buy if you are a fan of the artists involved.

If you've ever thought of getting an Irish CD buy this, 22 Feb 2003
Not only does this give you a journey to Irish Isles through 40 years of one of the countries greatest bands but it features a wealth of International Artist with a love of music.

You'll get a real Irish flavour from the first track 'March of the King of Ladis', the pipes support Sinead O'Connor on the 2nd track and are followed by a very energetic version of 'I know my love' with the Corrs.

The thing about Irish music is that whenever it's played everybody joins in and has a great time and you will do the same listening to this. You'll be beating out the rythym especially to track 4 a right good Cotton Pickin Traditional tune.

Joini Mitchell allows you time to recover and contemplate about the Magdalene Sisters in 'The Magdalene Laundries' watch out soon for the film that features the Sisterhood. This version is typical Joini with lovely instumental backing by the boys.

One of my favorites features Art Garfunkle and Diana Krall's haunting version of Morning has Broken. This track was recorded, New Year's Day 2000 on the Ocean Explorer 1 just off Deception Island, can you imagine the scene.

The final track with Ziggy Marley just goes to show the variety of artists they have joined forces with over the years.

I've never seen them live but as they don't seem to be slowing down there's time yet. In the meantime this CD will do nicely.

Enjoyable foot and finger tapping rompt through four decades, 08 Feb 2003
If you haven't got any Irish music then get this and it'll take you through decades of collaborations. The guest list is impressive and you won't stop finger and foot tapping.

There's plenty of variety and the sleeve notes put some tracks in a nice historical context. I mean a track recorded on new year's day 2000 on Explorer 1 setting sail from Deception Island with ship mates like Diana Krall and Art Garfunkel, the imagery and sound superb. Journey with them to a typical Irish Pub in Dublin 'Live from Matt Molloy's Pub' To be sure you'll be carried off to the Emerald Isle and upto date with the Corrs.

It's pure Guiness sorry Genius, lovely.

Quite enjoyable mixture of the traditional & the eclectic, 24 Dec 2002
A collection that celebrates the Irish group's versatility
Reviewer: Neal Clark Reynolds from E. Taunton, MA United States
On the one hand, I sure hope that the Chieftains aren't leaving their traditional roots, and on the other hand, I enjoy their explorations of different musical styles.
These are all cuts from previous albums, so he who has all of their albums probably won't want this one. For the rest of us, there are some realy outstanding cuts. I especially enjoyed Sinead O'Connor's singing of the traditional "The Foggy Dew". That one's followed by The Corrs and "I Know My Love", another traditional with a fresh twist. Ricky Skaggs joining the group for "Cotton-Eyed Joe" was a real high point, spotlighting the relation of Irish traditional reels and jigs to bluegrass. Joni Mitchell is one of the greats, and hearing her own "The Magdalene Laundries" backed by the group is a real treat. And Van Morrison bares his soul in "Shenandoah", again highlighting the Irish influence on American music.

I was a bit disappointed with Diana Krall & Art Garfunkel's "Morning Has Broken", which certainly doesn't compare with Cat Stevens. So you can't win them all. Sting didn't seem appropriate on "Mo Ghile Mear" either.

However, I was pleasantly surprised by "Full Of Joy" with the Chinese Ensemble. That's one where it sounded everyone was having fun. And the closing rendition of Bob Marley's "Redemption Song" featuring Ziggy Marley was a winner.

All in all, if you don't have most of these on other Chieftain albums, you'll want this one

The daughter of acclaimed British folk artists Martin Carthy and Norma Waterson, Eliza Carthy has long been one of the major protagonists in the UK neo-folk renaissance. A dedicated and passionate artist, Carthy is also highly eclectic, as evinced on previous albums such as Red Rice, which blended drum & bass with folk fiddle amongst other unusual but largely successful experiments. Dreams Of Breathing Underwater is Carthy's seventh solo record and is predictably unpredictable. Opening with the 12-bar blues "Follow The Dollar", the album shapeshifts through the ethereal "Hug You Like A Mountain" and "Lavenders", the meandering "Rosalie", the funereal "Two Tears" and the captivating "Mr Magnifico" - right up to the dramatic, swinging denouement "Oranges And Seasalt". Carthy's vocals are as mercurial as her arrangements as she switches from angelic to angry, poignant to potent. There's never a dull moment as the songs flit insouciantly between Latin and reggae, electronica and blues, further underlining Carthy's skill as a songwriter and her imagination as an artiste.

it will do for now, 11 Nov 2008
the best Xmas cd on the market at present - but not as good as the red cover Best Christmas Album in the World Ever which came out in 1995ish. To be fair this one has virtually everything but misses several key tracks - Shakin Steven's Merry Christmas Everyone, The Pretenders 2000 Mile and the Wham version of Last Christmas. It would be in bad taste for me to complain that theres no Rock and Roll Christmas by Gary Glitter but there you go. Other than these exceptions it has everything.

i think that sony bmg should grow up..., 17 Dec 2007
i think that sony bmg should grow up and let mariah carey and wham onto this album instead of trying to make us buy christmas hits. shame on you sony bmg for ruining the best xmas album!

what a disappointment ?!, 04 Dec 2007
Although there are some good tracks on this compilation, overall I was disappointed. These CDs are full of dodgy cover versions of Christmas greats....spare me the elevator version of "Last Christmas". Poor show.

Full Of Xmas Joy!, 15 Nov 2007
I LOVE this album, almost every christmas song you could want is on here. The only two songs that deserve to be extra on here are Wham!'s Last Christmas and Mariah Carey's All I Want. Other than that this is a faultless album. So long as you love christmas and a little bit of cheese this is definintely worth getting, and the price makes it an absolute bargin!!!!!!!!

3 Great Festive CD's, 23 Oct 2007
So Here It Is ..Merry Xmas everyone. Put some logs on the fire and this on the CD Player then settle back in my fave armchair to re-read A Christmas Carol / It's Cold Outisde with a warm glass of Mulled Wine and a mince pie

Better late than never, 22 Oct 2008
Spotted in a bookshop in Bakewell, Derbyshire. There wasn't a "2" was there? So I bought it. And it's hardly been off in the car since. I agree with other reviewers that not every song here is a gem, but the Lucas numbers do have something that stirs the sentiments. (You who said he wasn't a great songwriter, I present exhibit A - "Bring 'em Down" on Fairport 9). It's true though that it's the Denny tracks that really stir the soul. Her remarkable ability to interpret a song never disappoints on this disc.

With all the emotion in the vocals, and all the Telecaster Pyrotechnics of the genius Donahue, it's easy to ignore the superb foundation on which this edifice is built. British folk-rock music has provided some of the best rhythm sections in the world. Conway and Donaldson excel on this album, always supporting, always enhancing, always driving, and never overwhelming. And as to the production values, the three remaining members deserve a medal for obtaining a purity of sound that 21st century ears won't baulk at, while retaining the essential feel and style of a '70's recording.

I doubt you'll be disappointed if you buy it. For me, it's a minor masterpiece.

flawed but still a must-buy, 16 Oct 2008
The unexpected release of this CD is undoubtedly the folk event of 2008. It's a throwback to an idyllic time when folk music was inventive and exciting unlike the sterile unimaginative stuff of the last 30 years - Eliza Carthy and the sadly defunct 18th Day of May being honourable exceptions.Buy it? Of course buy it.
There are negatives. Some of the tracks will be already familiar to us all - "John the Gun" and "Late November" feature on Sandy's magical "Northstar Grassman" album. The Strawbs "Two Weeks" also can be found as a bonus track on Fotheringay 1. But the greatest fault is the inclusion of two very poor tracks. For me "Wild Mountain Thyme" is an insipid thing , even if Sandy sings it.As an Irishman I loved how Sandy interpreted our old ballad "She Moved through the Fair" with the Fairports. Compare that with this piece of Scottish "late night too many drams" drowsiness.
But far worse is the truly dire "Silver Threads". How could such a gifted songwriter bring herself to sing such pap. Compare the bland lyrics and juvenile imagery here to her own high poetry in "Late November". The band might have saved this but they appear to quickly lose interest. The backing is listless , at best dutiful.Except Donahue's final notes of joyous relief.
But there is brilliance too. The best track I've heard for years is the minor epic "Bold Jack Donahue". Trevor Lucas is the villian of the piece for many Sandy/Fairport fans - the Oz who plucked the English rose , broke up the Fairports and later Sandy's career and heart etc. Joe Boyd is no fan.In his book "White Bicycles" (pp228-229) Boyd sees Lucas as a talentless, exploitative guy who turned Sandy into "a nervous wreck". Boyd was a superb producer but I think he's unfair , at least on the issue of talent. Trevor is a great singer. His delivery of "Polly on the Shore" on FC's "Nine" album was superb. "Bold Jack" is similar - Lucas owns the ballad from first to last and his interpretation is blindingly good.The band really get into it too , with some superb riffs and grace notes from the sublime Jerry Donahue. I also felt Lucas stole the show on Fotheringay 1 with his interpretation of "The Way I Feel" (described by Boyd as "filler" !!).Anyway if Sandy loved him - that must count for something.
Finally there is the best Black Jack Davey version you'll ever hear. Mind you ,the You Tube clip of "Gypsy Davey" is even better than this studio version. The live performance is incredibly good and Jerry's solo before the final verse is outstanding. See this clip and realise just how good this band was - you'll definitely want this CD in your collection.

Tyme to move the mountains back where they belong, 15 Oct 2008
Sandy Denny's demo of 'Wild Mountain Tyme' that I heard on Youtube recently is one of the most beautiful renditions of a traditional folk ballad I have ever heard. I could not wait to hear it in pristine condition on 'Fotheringay 2'. Jerry Donahue and the guys have done a fine job of adding some beautiful instrumentation to the track but..shock horror...it is ruined when a deep male voice harmonises under Sandy's voice. I could not believe it, as a track that had a sound conjuring beautiful Gaelic imagery is suddenly turned into Aslan the Lion (the deep voice,) bounding out of the hedgerows turning the piece into a christian singalong. The deep voice singer can sing but it was so disappointing for me to hear an outside voice on top of Sandy's performance that I am so used to hearing her sing 'solo'.
Personal preferences aside, Jerry Donahue and the rest of the group have done a top notch job in delicately adding eloquent instrumentation to both 'John The Gun' and 'Silver Threads and Golden Needles' which is a very strong piece of work. Although at first the many clicks that can be heard and Denny's vocal on Verse Two of 'John The Gun' that is chopped up, (probably because of the age of the master tape,) is slightly distracting, on second onwards listening they are scarcely noticeable.
As majestic as the bands playing is, revamping the old master tapes, I do not feel that this is a five star album, although I do think it is a very fine and admirable one nonetheless.

Denny is always welcomed but..., 14 Oct 2008
Fotheringay Vol.2

First, this is not an unfinished album, but the collection of leftovers from BBC sessions, not "originally recorded at Sound Techniques" as quoted, at least most of the tracks weren't. "John The Gun" was from November 1970 BBC, but with recently overdubbed sax(?!) in the vain of similarly tempered "Gold Dust" concert where, apart from Sandy's voice, just the bits were from the original concert. "Eppy Moray" and wonderful "Wild Mountain Thyme" were the versions from BBC April 1970, and Fairport concert standard "Knights On The Road" definitely didn't belong here same as "Restless". Frankly, I believe that these two tracks were recorded by Trevor Lucas after Fotheringay disbanded, because Fotheringay never performed these tunes, nor live nor on BBC. Also, it sounds as some of the instruments were recorded much more recently that 1970, same as "I Don't Believe You". "Late November", "Gypsy Davey" and "Two Weeks Last Summer" were recorded during 1st album sessions and were not the part of BBC sessions.

Still, I see this as an essential addition to every decent collection of Sandy Denny, although definitely not as the previously unfinished second album of Fotheringay. If Mr. Donahue wanted to assemble the collection of what was left behind he could use brilliant "Lowlands Of Holland" from BBC Folk On One or folk-rock version of "Memphis Tennesee". I am sure that their inclusion would make this compilation better value for money.



Raking over the ashes, 14 Oct 2008
I don't think this was worth doing, although Sandy Denny had a wonderful voice there isn't much here than will bear repeated listening. Silver Threads and Golden Needles gains nothing from a dirge-like tempo, it is a country song; Trevor Lucas's voice really sets my teeth on edge and the vaunted sax solo has too many technical deficiencies. I suppose what I am trying to say is enjoy Sandy in her prime with Fairport, not this second rate pastiche. And surely she knew that Fotheringhay isn't in Scotland!

WOW...SIMPLY AMAZING!, 10 Nov 2002
This is a terrific CD, with its wild meld of celtic, pop, folk, and country strains. The Chieftains, accompanied by such music greats as Sting, Mick Jagger, Sinead O'Connor, The Rolling Stones, Marianne Faithfull, Tom Jones, Van Morrison, among others...who would have thought such an assemblage would result in such a cohesive recording of such wildly divergent music? Of particular note are Sting's mournful rendition of "Mo Ghile Mear" and Sinead O'Connor's stylization of "The Foggy Dew" and "He Moved Through The Fair". Mick Jagger also does justice to "A Long Black Veil". This CD is simply a great recording overall!

Fiddles, whistles and rock stars!, 27 Apr 2001
This CD certainly proves that The Chieftains have friends in high places! This album is packed full of rock stars (Mick Jagger, Sting, Sinead O' Connor, Van Morrison, Mark Knopfler, Tom Jones and Marianne Faithfull) singing traditional Irish songs. This is an interesting album and the songs do work better than I expected them too. This is a lively collection of songs and none of the artists sound out of place, but I think I would still prefer hearing these songs sung by folk singers. Nonetheless this is a good introduction to The Chieftain's style of music and an essential buy if you are a fan of the artists involved.

If you've ever thought of getting an Irish CD buy this, 22 Feb 2003
Not only does this give you a journey to Irish Isles through 40 years of one of the countries greatest bands but it features a wealth of International Artist with a love of music.

You'll get a real Irish flavour from the first track 'March of the King of Ladis', the pipes support Sinead O'Connor on the 2nd track and are followed by a very energetic version of 'I know my love' with the Corrs.

The thing about Irish music is that whenever it's played everybody joins in and has a great time and you will do the same listening to this. You'll be beating out the rythym especially to track 4 a right good Cotton Pickin Traditional tune.

Joini Mitchell allows you time to recover and contemplate about the Magdalene Sisters in 'The Magdalene Laundries' watch out soon for the film that features the Sisterhood. This version is typical Joini with lovely instumental backing by the boys.

One of my favorites features Art Garfunkle and Diana Krall's haunting version of Morning has Broken. This track was recorded, New Year's Day 2000 on the Ocean Explorer 1 just off Deception Island, can you imagine the scene.

The final track with Ziggy Marley just goes to show the variety of artists they have joined forces with over the years.

I've never seen them live but as they don't seem to be slowing down there's time yet. In the meantime this CD will do nicely.

Enjoyable foot and finger tapping rompt through four decades, 08 Feb 2003
If you haven't got any Irish music then get this and it'll take you through decades of collaborations. The guest list is impressive and you won't stop finger and foot tapping.

There's plenty of variety and the sleeve notes put some tracks in a nice historical context. I mean a track recorded on new year's day 2000 on Explorer 1 setting sail from Deception Island with ship mates like Diana Krall and Art Garfunkel, the imagery and sound superb. Journey with them to a typical Irish Pub in Dublin 'Live from Matt Molloy's Pub' To be sure you'll be carried off to the Emerald Isle and upto date with the Corrs.

It's pure Guiness sorry Genius, lovely.

Quite enjoyable mixture of the traditional & the eclectic, 24 Dec 2002
A collection that celebrates the Irish group's versatility
Reviewer: Neal Clark Reynolds from E. Taunton, MA United States
On the one hand, I sure hope that the Chieftains aren't leaving their traditional roots, and on the other hand, I enjoy their explorations of different musical styles.
These are all cuts from previous albums, so he who has all of their albums probably won't want this one. For the rest of us, there are some realy outstanding cuts. I especially enjoyed Sinead O'Connor's singing of the traditional "The Foggy Dew". That one's followed by The Corrs and "I Know My Love", another traditional with a fresh twist. Ricky Skaggs joining the group for "Cotton-Eyed Joe" was a real high point, spotlighting the relation of Irish traditional reels and jigs to bluegrass. Joni Mitchell is one of the greats, and hearing her own "The Magdalene Laundries" backed by the group is a real treat. And Van Morrison bares his soul in "Shenandoah", again highlighting the Irish influence on American music.

I was a bit disappointed with Diana Krall & Art Garfunkel's "Morning Has Broken", which certainly doesn't compare with Cat Stevens. So you can't win them all. Sting didn't seem appropriate on "Mo Ghile Mear" either.

However, I was pleasantly surprised by "Full Of Joy" with the Chinese Ensemble. That's one where it sounded everyone was having fun. And the closing rendition of Bob Marley's "Redemption Song" featuring Ziggy Marley was a winner.

All in all, if you don't have most of these on other Chieftain albums, you'll want this one

big effects but......, 09 Sep 2008
Eliza is a huge talent- writing , playing and a voice like no other, but for me this CD seems to have lost the sound and emotion and subtlety that I love about much of her work.
Big sound, but unsatisfying , maybe less is more?


This is what she's been building towards, 27 Aug 2008
Brilliant, witty, rude, anarchic, multi-styled, multi-layered !
Eliza Carthy produces a career-highlight album
Styles and boundaries are blown aside in a magical display of contemporary (Hard to categorise as 'Folk') music
Musicianship throughout is superb from all participants and lyrics are at once thought-provoking and amusing
'Oranges and Sea-salt' is a classic
This album puts Eliza right up there with Richard Thompson as one of our national treasures !

Something a bit different, 09 Aug 2008
Now, this is a difficult album to recommend. Ultimately all reviews are redundant as it comes down to personal taste at the end of the day. If you're a fan of Eliza's material across the board then it's a fair bet that this is for you as it outshines all of her previous self-written, less folky material. She's learned her craft well and this is a very polished collection of songs, made even more impressive by her restrained vocals and sharp wit. If you're after traditional arrangements/songs then you won't find them here. If you are strictly a fan of Eliza's folk music, then this isn't probably for you either. As one reviewer has said, you can't compare this album to anything else. Each track is as different as the last and so to even brand the album as a whole would be a waste of time. You could say certain tracks are done in a certain style, Oranges & Seasalt being big band(ish). The nearest comparison I can think of as a whole is the way in which Bellowhead have taken folk music and done something very bold and loud and clever with an off-beat approach. Spiers and Boden even make their now obligatory appearances on Dreams. I was also slightly reminded of Voltaire for the same reasons. Dreams is not trad or even folk as such, but a collection of very from-left-field and catchy tunes. I'm not a particular fan of Eliza's more contemporary offerings and the trad arr heavy Rough Music is one of my all-time favourite albums, so I had this album on order just because it's Eliza and wasn't expecting much from this outing. I was wrong. The first track is my least favourite and so things didn't bode well on first play what with my preconceptions and it's also one of those albums that catches you out, so a few listens are needed to get comfortable with it. But if and when it clicks it is undoubtedly one of the most catchy, original and clever albums you'll hear in a long while. Mr Magnifico, for example, is the kind of thing that would normally have me cringing and scrambling for the skip track button, but somehow it works. Personal favourites are Little Bigman and Oranges & Seasalt. Love it or hate it, to sum up the album in one punch would have to be "Clever and Catchy." The one draw back with traditional music is that it can be dull, a long and rambling story with hardly a tune, and deep down we all like a catchy tune. By writing her own material Eliza has delivered an album that pays it's dues to the folk music community, pushes the boundaries of... well music in general, which is no mean feat these days, and wins through by being infectiously catchy and will have you whistling one song or another at all times of the day and night. On the back of this album I bought tickets for the tour and, as always with Eliza, it is guaranteed to be a good night out.

Magical and touching music, 09 Jul 2008
This is modern British folk with a specifically English twist - not eccentric but gloriously idiosyncratic. It is personal without being maudlin, melodious but never mawkish. And yet there is something touching about it that is close to poetic. Bracing, timeless stuff.

Different, Varied and Great Fun, 02 Jul 2008
Having thoroughly enjoyed her more traditional previous album Rough Music, and following the recent Channel 5 documentary on Eliza, I had expected something in a similar vein. However, this is very different. It follows in the trail of her previous self-written album (the underrated Angels & Cigarettes) and infuses her folk leanings with an unexpected variety of instruments and styles. What comes through on every song is the strength of the song writing, the vividly drawn characters and the wonderful narratives. All delivered in Eliza's beautiful and expressive singing style. It's an album that rewards repeated listens and leaves you feeling uplifted on every occasion. Incidentally, if you ever get the chance to see Eliza live, don't miss out as it's a wonderful evening in the company of a very talented and engaging person.

it will do for now, 11 Nov 2008
the best Xmas cd on the market at present - but not as good as the red cover Best Christmas Album in the World Ever which came out in 1995ish. To be fair this one has virtually everything but misses several key tracks - Shakin Steven's Merry Christmas Everyone, The Pretenders 2000 Mile and the Wham version of Last Christmas. It would be in bad taste for me to complain that theres no Rock and Roll Christmas by Gary Glitter but there you go. Other than these exceptions it has everything.

i think that sony bmg should grow up..., 17 Dec 2007
i think that sony bmg should grow up and let mariah carey and wham onto this album instead of trying to make us buy christmas hits. shame on you sony bmg for ruining the best xmas album!

what a disappointment ?!, 04 Dec 2007
Although there are some good tracks on this compilation, overall I was disappointed. These CDs are full of dodgy cover versions of Christmas greats....spare me the elevator version of "Last Christmas". Poor show.

Full Of Xmas Joy!, 15 Nov 2007
I LOVE this album, almost every christmas song you could want is on here. The only two songs that deserve to be extra on here are Wham!'s Last Christmas and Mariah Carey's All I Want. Other than that this is a faultless album. So long as you love christmas and a little bit of cheese this is definintely worth getting, and the price makes it an absolute bargin!!!!!!!!

3 Great Festive CD's, 23 Oct 2007
So Here It Is ..Merry Xmas everyone. Put some logs on the fire and this on the CD Player then settle back in my fave armchair to re-read A Christmas Carol / It's Cold Outisde with a warm glass of Mulled Wine and a mince pie

Better late than never, 22 Oct 2008
Spotted in a bookshop in Bakewell, Derbyshire. There wasn't a "2" was there? So I bought it. And it's hardly been off in the car since. I agree with other reviewers that not every song here is a gem, but the Lucas numbers do have something that stirs the sentiments. (You who said he wasn't a great songwriter, I present exhibit A - "Bring 'em Down" on Fairport 9). It's true though that it's the Denny tracks that really stir the soul. Her remarkable ability to interpret a song never disappoints on this disc.

With all the emotion in the vocals, and all the Telecaster Pyrotechnics of the genius Donahue, it's easy to ignore the superb foundation on which this edifice is built. British folk-rock music has provided some of the best rhythm sections in the world. Conway and Donaldson excel on this album, always supporting, always enhancing, always driving, and never overwhelming. And as to the production values, the three remaining members deserve a medal for obtaining a purity of sound that 21st century ears won't baulk at, while retaining the essential feel and style of a '70's recording.

I doubt you'll be disappointed if you buy it. For me, it's a minor masterpiece.

flawed but still a must-buy, 16 Oct 2008
The unexpected release of this CD is undoubtedly the folk event of 2008. It's a throwback to an idyllic time when folk music was inventive and exciting unlike the sterile unimaginative stuff of the last 30 years - Eliza Carthy and the sadly defunct 18th Day of May being honourable exceptions.Buy it? Of course buy it.
There are negatives. Some of the tracks will be already familiar to us all - "John the Gun" and "Late November" feature on Sandy's magical "Northstar Grassman" album. The Strawbs "Two Weeks" also can be found as a bonus track on Fotheringay 1. But the greatest fault is the inclusion of two very poor tracks. For me "Wild Mountain Thyme" is an insipid thing , even if Sandy sings it.As an Irishman I loved how Sandy interpreted our old ballad "She Moved through the Fair" with the Fairports. Compare that with this piece of Scottish "late night too many drams" drowsiness.
But far worse is the truly dire "Silver Threads". How could such a gifted songwriter bring herself to sing such pap. Compare the bland lyrics and juvenile imagery here to her own high poetry in "Late November". The band might have saved this but they appear to quickly lose interest. The backing is listless , at best dutiful.Except Donahue's final notes of joyous relief.
But there is brilliance too. The best track I've heard for years is the minor epic "Bold Jack Donahue". Trevor Lucas is the villian of the piece for many Sandy/Fairport fans - the Oz who plucked the English rose , broke up the Fairports and later Sandy's career and heart etc. Joe Boyd is no fan.In his book "White Bicycles" (pp228-229) Boyd sees Lucas as a talentless, exploitative guy who turned Sandy into "a nervous wreck". Boyd was a superb producer but I think he's unfair , at least on the issue of talent. Trevor is a great singer. His delivery of "Polly on the Shore" on FC's "Nine" album was superb. "Bold Jack" is similar - Lucas owns the ballad from first to last and his interpretation is blindingly good.The band really get into it too , with some superb riffs and grace notes from the sublime Jerry Donahue. I also felt Lucas stole the show on Fotheringay 1 with his interpretation of "The Way I Feel" (described by Boyd as "filler" !!).Anyway if Sandy loved him - that must count for something.
Finally there is the best Black Jack Davey version you'll ever hear. Mind you ,the You Tube clip of "Gypsy Davey" is even better than this studio version. The live performance is incredibly good and Jerry's solo before the final verse is outstanding. See this clip and realise just how good this band was - you'll definitely want this CD in your collection.

Tyme to move the mountains back where they belong, 15 Oct 2008
Sandy Denny's demo of 'Wild Mountain Tyme' that I heard on Youtube recently is one of the most beautiful renditions of a traditional folk ballad I have ever heard. I could not wait to hear it in pristine condition on 'Fotheringay 2'. Jerry Donahue and the guys have done a fine job of adding some beautiful instrumentation to the track but..shock horror...it is ruined when a deep male voice harmonises under Sandy's voice. I could not believe it, as a track that had a sound conjuring beautiful Gaelic imagery is suddenly turned into Aslan the Lion (the deep voice,) bounding out of the hedgerows turning the piece into a christian singalong. The deep voice singer can sing but it was so disappointing for me to hear an outside voice on top of Sandy's performance that I am so used to hearing her sing 'solo'.
Personal preferences aside, Jerry Donahue and the rest of the group have done a top notch job in delicately adding eloquent instrumentation to both 'John The Gun' and 'Silver Threads and Golden Needles' which is a very strong piece of work. Although at first the many clicks that can be heard and Denny's vocal on Verse Two of 'John The Gun' that is chopped up, (probably because of the age of the master tape,) is slightly distracting, on second onwards listening they are scarcely noticeable.
As majestic as the bands playing is, revamping the old master tapes, I do not feel that this is a five star album, although I do think it is a very fine and admirable one nonetheless.

Denny is always welcomed but..., 14 Oct 2008
Fotheringay Vol.2

First, this is not an unfinished album, but the collection of leftovers from BBC sessions, not "originally recorded at Sound Techniques" as quoted, at least most of the tracks weren't. "John The Gun" was from November 1970 BBC, but with recently overdubbed sax(?!) in the vain of similarly tempered "Gold Dust" concert where, apart from Sandy's voice, just the bits were from the original concert. "Eppy Moray" and wonderful "Wild Mountain Thyme" were the versions from BBC April 1970, and Fairport concert standard "Knights On The Road" definitely didn't belong here same as "Restless". Frankly, I believe that these two tracks were recorded by Trevor Lucas after Fotheringay disbanded, because Fotheringay never performed these tunes, nor live nor on BBC. Also, it sounds as some of the instruments were recorded much more recently that 1970, same as "I Don't Believe You". "Late November", "Gypsy Davey" and "Two Weeks Last Summer" were recorded during 1st album sessions and were not the part of BBC sessions.

Still, I see this as an essential addition to every decent collection of Sandy Denny, although definitely not as the previously unfinished second album of Fotheringay. If Mr. Donahue wanted to assemble the collection of what was left behind he could use brilliant "Lowlands Of Holland" from BBC Folk On One or folk-rock version of "Memphis Tennesee". I am sure that their inclusion would make this compilation better value for money.



Raking over the ashes, 14 Oct 2008
I don't think this was worth doing, although Sandy Denny had a wonderful voice there isn't much here than will bear repeated listening. Silver Threads and Golden Needles gains nothing from a dirge-like tempo, it is a country song; Trevor Lucas's voice really sets my teeth on edge and the vaunted sax solo has too many technical deficiencies. I suppose what I am trying to say is enjoy Sandy in her prime with Fairport, not this second rate pastiche. And surely she knew that Fotheringhay isn't in Scotland!

WOW...SIMPLY AMAZING!, 10 Nov 2002
This is a terrific CD, with its wild meld of celtic, pop, folk, and country strains. The Chieftains, accompanied by such music greats as Sting, Mick Jagger, Sinead O'Connor, The Rolling Stones, Marianne Faithfull, Tom Jones, Van Morrison, among others...who would have thought such an assemblage would result in such a cohesive recording of such wildly divergent music? Of particular note are Sting's mournful rendition of "Mo Ghile Mear" and Sinead O'Connor's stylization of "The Foggy Dew" and "He Moved Through The Fair". Mick Jagger also does justice to "A Long Black Veil". This CD is simply a great recording overall!

Fiddles, whistles and rock stars!, 27 Apr 2001
This CD certainly proves that The Chieftains have friends in high places! This album is packed full of rock stars (Mick Jagger, Sting, Sinead O' Connor, Van Morrison, Mark Knopfler, Tom Jones and Marianne Faithfull) singing traditional Irish songs. This is an interesting album and the songs do work better than I expected them too. This is a lively collection of songs and none of the artists sound out of place, but I think I would still prefer hearing these songs sung by folk singers. Nonetheless this is a good introduction to The Chieftain's style of music and an essential buy if you are a fan of the artists involved.

If you've ever thought of getting an Irish CD buy this, 22 Feb 2003
Not only does this give you a journey to Irish Isles through 40 years of one of the countries greatest bands but it features a wealth of International Artist with a love of music.

You'll get a real Irish flavour from the first track 'March of the King of Ladis', the pipes support Sinead O'Connor on the 2nd track and are followed by a very energetic version of 'I know my love' with the Corrs.

The thing about Irish music is that whenever it's played everybody joins in and has a great time and you will do the same listening to this. You'll be beating out the rythym especially to track 4 a right good Cotton Pickin Traditional tune.

Joini Mitchell allows you time to recover and contemplate about the Magdalene Sisters in 'The Magdalene Laundries' watch out soon for the film that features the Sisterhood. This version is typical Joini with lovely instumental backing by the boys.

One of my favorites features Art Garfunkle and Diana Krall's haunting version of Morning has Broken. This track was recorded, New Year's Day 2000 on the Ocean Explorer 1 just off Deception Island, can you imagine the scene.

The final track with Ziggy Marley just goes to show the variety of artists they have joined forces with over the years.

I've never seen them live but as they don't seem to be slowing down there's time yet. In the meantime this CD will do nicely.

Enjoyable foot and finger tapping rompt through four decades, 08 Feb 2003
If you haven't got any Irish music then get this and it'll take you through decades of collaborations. The guest list is impressive and you won't stop finger and foot tapping.

There's plenty of variety and the sleeve notes put some tracks in a nice historical context. I mean a track recorded on new year's day 2000 on Explorer 1 setting sail from Deception Island with ship mates like Diana Krall and Art Garfunkel, the imagery and sound superb. Journey with them to a typical Irish Pub in Dublin 'Live from Matt Molloy's Pub' To be sure you'll be carried off to the Emerald Isle and upto date with the Corrs.

It's pure Guiness sorry Genius, lovely.

Quite enjoyable mixture of the traditional & the eclectic, 24 Dec 2002
A collection that celebrates the Irish group's versatility
Reviewer: Neal Clark Reynolds from E. Taunton, MA United States
On the one hand, I sure hope that the Chieftains aren't leaving their traditional roots, and on the other hand, I enjoy their explorations of different musical styles.
These are all cuts from previous albums, so he who has all of their albums probably won't want this one. For the rest of us, there are some realy outstanding cuts. I especially enjoyed Sinead O'Connor's singing of the traditional "The Foggy Dew". That one's followed by The Corrs and "I Know My Love", another traditional with a fresh twist. Ricky Skaggs joining the group for "Cotton-Eyed Joe" was a real high point, spotlighting the relation of Irish traditional reels and jigs to bluegrass. Joni Mitchell is one of the greats, and hearing her own "The Magdalene Laundries" backed by the group is a real treat. And Van Morrison bares his soul in "Shenandoah", again highlighting the Irish influence on American music.

I was a bit disappointed with Diana Krall & Art Garfunkel's "Morning Has Broken", which certainly doesn't compare with Cat Stevens. So you can't win them all. Sting didn't seem appropriate on "Mo Ghile Mear" either.

However, I was pleasantly surprised by "Full Of Joy" with the Chinese Ensemble. That's one where it sounded everyone was having fun. And the closing rendition of Bob Marley's "Redemption Song" featuring Ziggy Marley was a winner.

All in all, if you don't have most of these on other Chieftain albums, you'll want this one

big effects but......, 09 Sep 2008
Eliza is a huge talent- writing , playing and a voice like no other, but for me this CD seems to have lost the sound and emotion and subtlety that I love about much of her work.
Big sound, but unsatisfying , maybe less is more?


This is what she's been building towards, 27 Aug 2008
Brilliant, witty, rude, anarchic, multi-styled, multi-layered !
Eliza Carthy produces a career-highlight album
Styles and boundaries are blown aside in a magical display of contemporary (Hard to categorise as 'Folk') music
Musicianship throughout is superb from all participants and lyrics are at once thought-provoking and amusing
'Oranges and Sea-salt' is a classic
This album puts Eliza right up there with Richard Thompson as one of our national treasures !

Something a bit different, 09 Aug 2008
Now, this is a difficult album to recommend. Ultimately all reviews are redundant as it comes down to personal taste at the end of the day. If you're a fan of Eliza's material across the board then it's a fair bet that this is for you as it outshines all of her previous self-written, less folky material. She's learned her craft well and this is a very polished collection of songs, made even more impressive by her restrained vocals and sharp wit. If you're after traditional arrangements/songs then you won't find them here. If you are strictly a fan of Eliza's folk music, then this isn't probably for you either. As one reviewer has said, you can't compare this album to anything else. Each track is as different as the last and so to even brand the album as a whole would be a waste of time. You could say certain tracks are done in a certain style, Oranges & Seasalt being big band(ish). The nearest comparison I can think of as a whole is the way in which Bellowhead have taken folk music and done something very bold and loud and clever with an off-beat approach. Spiers and Boden even make their now obligatory appearances on Dreams. I was also slightly reminded of Voltaire for the same reasons. Dreams is not trad or even folk as such, but a collection of very from-left-field and catchy tunes. I'm not a particular fan of Eliza's more contemporary offerings and the trad arr heavy Rough Music is one of my all-time favourite albums, so I had this album on order just because it's Eliza and wasn't expecting much from this outing. I was wrong. The first track is my least favourite and so things didn't bode well on first play what with my preconceptions and it's also one of those albums that catches you out, so a few listens are needed to get comfortable with it. But if and when it clicks it is undoubtedly one of the most catchy, original and clever albums you'll hear in a long while. Mr Magnifico, for example, is the kind of thing that would normally have me cringing and scrambling for the skip track button, but somehow it works. Personal favourites are Little Bigman and Oranges & Seasalt. Love it or hate it, to sum up the album in one punch would have to be "Clever and Catchy." The one draw back with traditional music is that it can be dull, a long and rambling story with hardly a tune, and deep down we all like a catchy tune. By writing her own material Eliza has delivered an album that pays it's dues to the folk music community, pushes the boundaries of... well music in general, which is no mean feat these days, and wins through by being infectiously catchy and will have you whistling one song or another at all times of the day and night. On the back of this album I bought tickets for the tour and, as always with Eliza, it is guaranteed to be a good night out.

Magical and touching music, 09 Jul 2008
This is modern British folk with a specifically English twist - not eccentric but gloriously idiosyncratic. It is personal without being maudlin, melodious but never mawkish. And yet there is something touching about it that is close to poetic. Bracing, timeless stuff.

Different, Varied and Great Fun, 02 Jul 2008
Having thoroughly enjoyed her more traditional previous album Rough Music, and following the recent Channel 5 documentary on Eliza, I had expected something in a similar vein. However, this is very different. It follows in the trail of her previous self-written album (the underrated Angels & Cigarettes) and infuses her folk leanings with an unexpected variety of instruments and styles. What comes through on every song is the strength of the song writing, the vividly drawn characters and the wonderful narratives. All delivered in Eliza's beautiful and expressive singing style. It's an album that rewards repeated listens and leaves you feeling uplifted on every occasion. Incidentally, if you ever get the chance to see Eliza live, don't miss out as it's a wonderful evening in the company of a very talented and engaging person.

Stunned, 18 Sep 2008
We caught Rachel Unthank at Cambridge Folk Festival in 07 and were blown away. It reminded me of some of the cutting age post punk stuff (hardly sounds folk!) in the early to mid 80s, not that we can trace much of this but vague memories of Peel, and support groups to the Nightingales and Terry and Jerry (sorry I am indulging myself here).

So after playing the Bairns to death, and tiring of it a little, totally surprised when we saw them live again to appreciate how wonderful this is and to have to play it once again.

Brilliant that a whole new audience can now appreciate it through the mercury nominations and even more wonderful to meet Becky at the Big Chill, even if I had forgotten the camera at the time (hope that she doesn't think she has a middle aged groupie)

Samaritans album of the year !, 26 Mar 2008
After hearing a lot of good things about Rachel Unthank in the press and catching a couple of promising sounding tracks on Mike Harding's Folk on 2, I was looking forward to hearing The Bairns in its entirety.
As the finishing bars melted away, I had already lost the will to live and was furiously trying to remember how to fashion a hangman's knot !
This is really, really depressing album. Like June Tabor, Rachel U has a melancholic voice which is perfect for the moody,tragedy of the her songs' subject matter.
Of course death,lost love and regret are stock in trade in Folk music. Unfortunately,Rachel's interpretations makes a traditional mournful ballad like say 'Little Musgrave' delivered by someone like Martin Simpson sound like Chirpy Chirpy Cheep Cheep by comparison!
So many tracks sound like real dirges with a gloomy single piano chord counterpointing the dreary vocals.
On one or two tracks where The Winterset chip in, there is the suggestion of something rather more uplifting behind the misery but regretably, these tracks are totally overwhelmed by that bloody plodding piano chord and that lifeless Geordie voice.
Am I being unfair ? Possibly,as someone who is more a fan of what is now termed 'Nu-Folk', the finger in yer ear traditional stuff quite often leaves me cold. The Bairns is very much in the conservative tradition.

If people think The Smiths were miserablists then Rachel Unthank makes them sound like a Caribbean steel drum band playing Black Lace's greatest hits !

Stunningly beautiful, 05 Feb 2008
"So we'll cry 'fareweel Regality',
and we'll cry 'fareweel the Liberty',
to honest friends' civility,
to winter's frost and fire"

I brought this album having caught the above snippet of "Fareweel Regality" [Sic.] playing late at night on the Radio. After a deft internet search through songs played that night, I managed to track the song down as coming from this album. Whilst I am quite a folk fan, I'd not heard of Rachel Unthank and The Winterset (fantastic name for a band!) before and so I procured the album. Whilst "Fareweel Regality" is still my favourite track, the entire album is absolutely beautiful. The voices, lyrics, tunes and arrangements are all superb - highly recommended!

Feeling Depressed? Buy This And Feel Worse!!, 24 Jan 2008
Having bought the previous album and found it patchy I bought this and found
it even patchier! To my ears, there're 3 great tracks and the rest are
dirges. Life is depressing enough without having musical accompaniment!
I'd love to hear Rachel Unthank address some uplifting tunes!

Good, no make that very good, 14 Jan 2008
Sleeve notes crediting the stamping of stiletto's as instruments, well that sets the tone. The girls all seem to thoroughly enjoy their music, and it is a pleasure to share their enjoyment with them.

You read so many times of artists being made to do this or that by their record company, and in so doing loosing the essence of what they are. Well that is never going to be something levelled at the Unthank girls and their band. This recording is completely real and totally unaffected by the vagaries of fashion. Well it is after all traditional music and the record industry tends to leave that well alone...thank goodness.

It is a tad dark in places, the subject matter is not conducive to sweetness and light after all. That does not mean it is without power, far from it. It is a truly excellent piece of work, I picked up on Rachels work with the Cruel Sister album, and I was astonished at her youth. The surety of vision inherent in the delivery of the songs on Cruel Sister is if anything exceeded on this offering.

Much has been made of her voice and to be fair she really is much more earthly than angelic. Comparisons to Eliza Carthy are understandable, and probably flatter the girls as they must be fans, but where Eliza is deeply grounded in a traditional delivery, there is something more edgy and modern with the Winterset. It is, as my ladyfriend says, wonderful to hear their North East accent come through, but it is more than that you can hear the girls soul in these records.

It is a thoroughly modern take on a disparate mix of songs from the self penned through the traditional on to the leftfield modern classic. I should say I loath the words FOLK. It has become anathema to so many people, the sound my grandad listens too. Not cool etc. I like to call it Roots music, and boy is this a good rootsy record.

Loath Folk Music? Give this a try anyway, it is that good
Love Folk Music? You will love it

it will do for now, 11 Nov 2008
the best Xmas cd on the market at present - but not as good as the red cover Best Christmas Album in the World Ever which came out in 1995ish. To be fair this one has virtually everything but misses several key tracks - Shakin Steven's Merry Christmas Everyone, The Pretenders 2000 Mile and the Wham version of Last Christmas. It would be in bad taste for me to complain that theres no Rock and Roll Christmas by Gary Glitter but there you go. Other than these exceptions it has everything.

i think that sony bmg should grow up..., 17 Dec 2007
i think that sony bmg should grow up and let mariah carey and wham onto this album instead of trying to make us buy christmas hits. shame on you sony bmg for ruining the best xmas album!

what a disappointment ?!, 04 Dec 2007
Although there are some good tracks on this compilation, overall I was disappointed. These CDs are full of dodgy cover versions of Christmas greats....spare me the elevator version of "Last Christmas". Poor show.

Full Of Xmas Joy!, 15 Nov 2007
I LOVE this album, almost every christmas song you could want is on here. The only two songs that deserve to be extra on here are Wham!'s Last Christmas and Mariah Carey's All I Want. Other than that this is a faultless album. So long as you love christmas and a little bit of cheese this is definintely worth getting, and the price makes it an absolute bargin!!!!!!!!

3 Great Festive CD's, 23 Oct 2007
So Here It Is ..Merry Xmas everyone. Put some logs on the fire and this on the CD Player then settle back in my fave armchair to re-read A Christmas Carol / It's Cold Outisde with a warm glass of Mulled Wine and a mince pie

Better late than never, 22 Oct 2008
Spotted in a bookshop in Bakewell, Derbyshire. There wasn't a "2" was there? So I bought it. And it's hardly been off in the car since. I agree with other reviewers that not every song here is a gem, but the Lucas numbers do have something that stirs the sentiments. (You who said he wasn't a great songwriter, I present exhibit A - "Bring 'em Down" on Fairport 9). It's true though that it's the Denny tracks that really stir the soul. Her remarkable ability to interpret a song never disappoints on this disc.

With all the emotion in the vocals, and all the Telecaster Pyrotechnics of the genius Donahue, it's easy to ignore the superb foundation on which this edifice is built. British folk-rock music has provided some of the best rhythm sections in the world. Conway and Donaldson excel on this album, always supporting, always enhancing, always driving, and never overwhelming. And as to the production values, the three remaining members deserve a medal for obtaining a purity of sound that 21st century ears won't baulk at, while retaining the essential feel and style of a '70's recording.

I doubt you'll be disappointed if you buy it. For me, it's a minor masterpiece.

flawed but still a must-buy, 16 Oct 2008
The unexpected release of this CD is undoubtedly the folk event of 2008. It's a throwback to an idyllic time when folk music was inventive and exciting unlike the sterile unimaginative stuff of the last 30 years - Eliza Carthy and the sadly defunct 18th Day of May being honourable exceptions.Buy it? Of course buy it.
There are negatives. Some of the tracks will be already familiar to us all - "John the Gun" and "Late November" feature on Sandy's magical "Northstar Grassman" album. The Strawbs "Two Weeks" also can be found as a bonus track on Fotheringay 1. But the greatest fault is the inclusion of two very poor tracks. For me "Wild Mountain Thyme" is an insipid thing , even if Sandy sings it.As an Irishman I loved how Sandy interpreted our old ballad "She Moved through the Fair" with the Fairports. Compare that with this piece of Scottish "late night too many drams" drowsiness.
But far worse is the truly dire "Silver Threads". How could such a gifted songwriter bring herself to sing such pap. Compare the bland lyrics and juvenile imagery here to her own high poetry in "Late November". The band might have saved this but they appear to quickly lose interest. The backing is listless , at best dutiful.Except Donahue's final notes of joyous relief.
But there is brilliance too. The best track I've heard for years is the minor epic "Bold Jack Donahue". Trevor Lucas is the villian of the piece for many Sandy/Fairport fans - the Oz who plucked the English rose , broke up the Fairports and later Sandy's career and heart etc. Joe Boyd is no fan.In his book "White Bicycles" (pp228-229) Boyd sees Lucas as a talentless, exploitative guy who turned Sandy into "a nervous wreck". Boyd was a superb producer but I think he's unfair , at least on the issue of talent. Trevor is a great singer. His delivery of "Polly on the Shore" on FC's "Nine" album was superb. "Bold Jack" is similar - Lucas owns the ballad from first to last and his interpretation is blindingly good.The band really get into it too , with some superb riffs and grace notes from the sublime Jerry Donahue. I also felt Lucas stole the show on Fotheringay 1 with his interpretation of "The Way I Feel" (described by Boyd as "filler" !!).Anyway if Sandy loved him - that must count for something.
Finally there is the best Black Jack Davey version you'll ever hear. Mind you ,the You Tube clip of "Gypsy Davey" is even better than this studio version. The live performance is incredibly good and Jerry's solo before the final verse is outstanding. See this clip and realise just how good this band was - you'll definitely want this CD in your collection.

Tyme to move the mountains back where they belong, 15 Oct 2008
Sandy Denny's demo of 'Wild Mountain Tyme' that I heard on Youtube recently is one of the most beautiful renditions of a traditional folk ballad I have ever heard. I could not wait to hear it in pristine condition on 'Fotheringay 2'. Jerry Donahue and the guys have done a fine job of adding some beautiful instrumentation to the track but..shock horror...it is ruined when a deep male voice harmonises under Sandy's voice. I could not believe it, as a track that had a sound conjuring beautiful Gaelic imagery is suddenly turned into Aslan the Lion (the deep voice,) bounding out of the hedgerows turning the piece into a christian singalong. The deep voice singer can sing but it was so disappointing for me to hear an outside voice on top of Sandy's performance that I am so used to hearing her sing 'solo'.
Personal preferences aside, Jerry Donahue and the rest of the group have done a top notch job in delicately adding eloquent instrumentation to both 'John The Gun' and 'Silver Threads and Golden Needles' which is a very strong piece of work. Although at first the many clicks that can be heard and Denny's vocal on Verse Two of 'John The Gun' that is chopped up, (probably because of the age of the master tape,) is slightly distracting, on second onwards listening they are scarcely noticeable.
As majestic as the bands playing is, revamping the old master tapes, I do not feel that this is a five star album, although I do think it is a very fine and admirable one nonetheless.

Denny is always welcomed but..., 14 Oct 2008
Fotheringay Vol.2

First, this is not an unfinished album, but the collection of leftovers from BBC sessions, not "originally recorded at Sound Techniques" as quoted, at least most of the tracks weren't. "John The Gun" was from November 1970 BBC, but with recently overdubbed sax(?!) in the vain of similarly tempered "Gold Dust" concert where, apart from Sandy's voice, just the bits were from the original concert. "Eppy Moray" and wonderful "Wild Mountain Thyme" were the versions from BBC April 1970, and Fairport concert standard "Knights On The Road" definitely didn't belong here same as "Restless". Frankly, I believe that these two tracks were recorded by Trevor Lucas after Fotheringay disbanded, because Fotheringay never performed these tunes, nor live nor on BBC. Also, it sounds as some of the instruments were recorded much more recently that 1970, same as "I Don't Believe You". "Late November", "Gypsy Davey" and "Two Weeks Last Summer" were recorded during 1st album sessions and were not the part of BBC sessions.

Still, I see this as an essential addition to every decent collection of Sandy Denny, although definitely not as the previously unfinished second album of Fotheringay. If Mr. Donahue wanted to assemble the collection of what was left behind he could use brilliant "Lowlands Of Holland" from BBC Folk On One or folk-rock version of "Memphis Tennesee". I am sure that their inclusion would make this compilation better value for money.



Raking over the ashes, 14 Oct 2008
I don't think this was worth doing, although Sandy Denny had a wonderful voice there isn't much here than will bear repeated listening. Silver Threads and Golden Needles gains nothing from a dirge-like tempo, it is a country song; Trevor Lucas's voice really sets my teeth on edge and the vaunted sax solo has too many technical deficiencies. I suppose what I am trying to say is enjoy Sandy in her prime with Fairport, not this second rate pastiche. And surely she knew that Fotheringhay isn't in Scotland!

WOW...SIMPLY AMAZING!, 10 Nov 2002
This is a terrific CD, with its wild meld of celtic, pop, folk, and country strains. The Chieftains, accompanied by such music greats as Sting, Mick Jagger, Sinead O'Connor, The Rolling Stones, Marianne Faithfull, Tom Jones, Van Morrison, among others...who would have thought such an assemblage would result in such a cohesive recording of such wildly divergent music? Of particular note are Sting's mournful rendition of "Mo Ghile Mear" and Sinead O'Connor's stylization of "The Foggy Dew" and "He Moved Through The Fair". Mick Jagger also does justice to "A Long Black Veil". This CD is simply a great recording overall!

Fiddles, whistles and rock stars!, 27 Apr 2001
This CD certainly proves that The Chieftains have friends in high places! This album is packed full of rock stars (Mick Jagger, Sting, Sinead O' Connor, Van Morrison, Mark Knopfler, Tom Jones and Marianne Faithfull) singing traditional Irish songs. This is an interesting album and the songs do work better than I expected them too. This is a lively collection of songs and none of the artists sound out of place, but I think I would still prefer hearing these songs sung by folk singers. Nonetheless this is a good introduction to The Chieftain's style of music and an essential buy if you are a fan of the artists involved.

If you've ever thought of getting an Irish CD buy this, 22 Feb 2003
Not only does this give you a journey to Irish Isles through 40 years of one of the countries greatest bands but it features a wealth of International Artist with a love of music.

You'll get a real Irish flavour from the first track 'March of the King of Ladis', the pipes support Sinead O'Connor on the 2nd track and are followed by a very energetic version of 'I know my love' with the Corrs.

The thing about Irish music is that whenever it's played everybody joins in and has a great time and you will do the same listening to this. You'll be beating out the rythym especially to track 4 a right good Cotton Pickin Traditional tune.

Joini Mitchell allows you time to recover and contemplate about the Magdalene Sisters in 'The Magdalene Laundries' watch out soon for the film that features the Sisterhood. This version is typical Joini with lovely instumental backing by the boys.

One of my favorites features Art Garfunkle and Diana Krall's haunting version of Morning has Broken. This track was recorded, New Year's Day 2000 on the Ocean Explorer 1 just off Deception Island, can you imagine the scene.

The final track with Ziggy Marley just goes to show the variety of artists they have joined forces with over the years.

I've never seen them live but as they don't seem to be slowing down there's time yet. In the meantime this CD will do nicely.

Enjoyable foot and finger tapping rompt through four decades, 08 Feb 2003
If you haven't got any Irish mu