The Clancy Brothers at their peak--bold, heartfelt, and timeless.
"Rebels, Rovers & Rakes: 1959-62" captures the raw energy, storytelling brilliance, and enduring charm of The Clancy Brothers, the legendary Irish folk group who brought traditional Irish songs to international prominence. Emerging from New York's Irish-American community in the late 1950s, the group--led by Paddy, Tom, Liam, and later included other members--redefined the sound of Irish folk with their rich harmonies, driving rhythms, and charismatic performances. Their recordings from 1959-62 remain milestones in the folk revival, inspiring countless musicians and audiences worldwide. Side A opens with stirring, politically and culturally charged ballads such as "The Rising of the Moon," "The Croppy Boy," "The Foggy Dew," and "Kevin Barry," showcasing the group's ability to convey history with passion and authenticity. Lively reels and drinking songs such as "Whiskey, You're The Devil," "The Real Old Mountain Dew," "A Jug of Punch," and the rollicking "Finnegan's Wake" illustrate their fun-loving, communal energy, balancing historical reflection with rowdy celebration. Side B offers intimate, timeless folk favorites including "The Parting Glass," "Johnny I Hardly Knew Ye," "Roddy McCorley," and "Brennan On The Moor." Traditional tunes like "I'll Tell My Ma," "The Wild Colonial Boy," "Shoals of Herring," and "Will Ye Go, Lassie Go? (Wild Mountain Thyme)" highlight their mastery of narrative, melody, and harmony, delivering songs that feel both authentic and immediately engaging. Rebels, Rovers & Rakes: 1959-62 is an essential collection for folk enthusiasts, collectors, and newcomers alike, offering a definitive portrait of The Clancy Brothers at their peak--bold, heartfelt, and timeless.
Track Listing
The Rising Of The Moon The Croppy Boy The Foggy Dew Kevin Barry The Wind That Shakes The Barley Whiskey, You're The Devil The Real Old Mountain Dew A Jug Of Punch Finnegan's Wake The Parting Glass Johnny, I Hardly Knew Ye Roddy McCorley Brennan On The Moor I'll Tell My Ma The Wild Colonial Boy Shoals Of Herring Will Ye Go, Lassie Go? (Wild Mountain Thyme)
