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Sleeve Notes
Few, if any, countries can vibrant national folk memory, match Ireland's tradition of folk music. From times immemorial, songs and music song, was greatly enhanced in were sung and played at wakes and weddings, hearth and home, markets and crossroad gatherings. In fact, wherever people came together.
Many colourful "characters" emerged as balladeers and musicians. Their compositions covered every subject under the sun-love, war, triumphs, tragedies, acts of man and nature, local events and people. The songs and ballads were carefully passed down from generation to generation to become part of a proud and vibrant national folk memory.
The safe preservation of this vast store of folk music and song, was greatly enhanced in vast store of folk music and recent decades by the advances in recording techniques. Similarly, advances in communication helped the rise of many Irish folk singers and ballad groups to both national and international fame.
In 1977, Polydor compiled an LP which featured many of the best under the title "A Feast of Irish Folk". It became one of the most prized folk albums of all time and also a best-seller in Europe and the U.S.A. This album is another welcome compilation of the most popular ballads around Ireland. We trust you will enjoy it every bit as much as its great predecessor.