Of Irish Crossings Told - O'Hanleigh

Green Cabin Music
2006

Who would ever expect Vermont, USA, to be home to one of the world’s leading Irish Folk bands? Surprising as that fact is, “Of Irish Crossings Told” is a beautiful album full of passionate energy and verve.

The track selection does an excellent job in covering an expansive repertoire, with each song showcasing brilliant musicianship and tremendous production values. There are no “skip tracks”, which leads to a very strong album overall.

O’Hanleigh’s traditional Irish folk style is injected with their US immigrant influences, producing music with depth and character. You get the impression there is incredible pride amongst the band members of their ancestral origins, and they embrace their “Irishness” with gusto.

“Mike Muldowney” and “Ain’t it bloody well grand” start and finish the album with a rousing tempo that is guaranteed to have you tapping your feet and humming the tunes for days.

Other personal favourites include “The Scotsman”, featuring standout harmonies, and “Rising of the moon/White cockade”. Each song has a tale to tell, as is tradition with the Irish.

Special mention must be given to the musicianship of the three band members – Tom Hanley, Becca Hanley and Cindy Hill. They all play a multitude of instruments, many traditional, and both their individual vocals and harmonies are superb.

A must have for lovers of Irish folk music!