Sleeve Notes
"Barleycorn have brought together professionalism, musicianship and new material without which they could not have evolved into the top class trio they are to-day."
"They seem to have the knack of carting around with them an atmosphere of good fellowship and barely suppressed larrikinism that transcends the cool atmosphere of a concert hall."
"It was very special in that immediate post match hour in Ta'Quali Stadium as the fans and the players augmented the Barleycorn in concert. The Maltese had never heard or seen the likes of it. Mostly, they couldn't believe that football supporters would remain in a stadium after a game to sing."
"Their controlled explosion of sound and song will keep many a foot tapping and head spinning in happy recollection after last night."
"The group did perform before a large crowd at the Miller Stage at Maier Festival Park but officials said the rain kept attendance down from last year."
"The intricate rhythms and intertwining melodies which emerged from the flying fingers of this trio did not need extra technical tricks to enhance their performance."
"The most successful Australian National Fold Festival in its 23 year history ended at Maleny yesterday afternoon with a grand finale concert and huge party. The closing concert, featuring World Expo '88 favourities Barleycorn."
It's Good To See You — Dedicated to our friends everywhere, people we don't see often enough but who are never far from our thoughts.
Hard Times — Contrary to what the title suggests the sentiments of this song express a hope for the future and a desire for love if both of these are mixed in with a little bit of effort, in the words of the song. 'There Will Be A Better Day', everyones dream.
The Keeper — A 'green' song from our friend Frank Hennessy from Cardiff in Wales warning us to look after our environment, a warning we should all heed.
We The People — There is always hope for the future of democracy and the peace of mankind if politicians are not deaf to the wisdom of the voice of the people.
A Place In The Choir — Maurice sang this song but was unable to get all the rest of the choir he sings about into the recording studio, however if you listen outside your own door you'll probably be able to hear some of the characters.
Carrickfergus — One of the best loved of all Irish ballads.
Back Home In Derry — The ordeal faced by deportees aboard ships bound for Australia was horrific, many never reached their destination and were buried at sea.
The Blarney Roses — We have made the odd search ourselves for these elusive plants with no success, more than likely a mythical species is the conclusion, however we liked the song, maybe it will grow on you.
Dressed In Green And Gold — A beautiful song from Eric Bogle, we can understand how he was moved to write lyrics with such feeling. We are still in awe at the natural beauty of Australia, which we have come to regard as our second home.
Day Of The Clipper — Glorious days of the great sailing ships and the magic of travel under sail.
The Punch And Judy Man — Lamenting the passing of innocent ways and simple enjoyment.
Reels — Maurice and John play a couple of fine tunes called 'The Girl That Broke My Heart' and 'The Mason's Apron'.
Pat Murphy's Meadow — Written by an emigrant in Newfoundland, whose reminiscence of happy days gone by making hay in the meadows back home, brought sweet memories.
Tie Me Down — Wanderlust is a strange thing over which there are few controls other than love which is a powerful anchor.
L'Amour Avenue — What a nice place for a stroll.
When We Danced To An Old Fashioned Tune — Dancing and romancing from another era.