Search - Andy Cooney :: Galway Shawl

Most refreshing

09/02/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"My name is John from Dublin. Andy Cooney has truely out done himself with this recording. It is a great mix of new songs and traditional favourites that are recorded in a most refreshing approach. Andy's original song "Rose of Ballinrobe" is a song that has the potential to stand the test of time as many of the Irish Classics. It is amazing how an American artist of Irish background can connect so much with the music of my country. I high reccomend you purchasing this CD."

Great Mix of Irish Songs

Lisa Shea | 05/22/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Galway Shawl by Andy Cooney is a collection of 12 Irish songs sung in his rich, tender voice. Most are slow love songs which are perfect for slow dancing to or simply listening and enjoying. My Rose of Ballinrobe and My Lovely Rose of Clare stand out as really touching songs.



There are a few dance songs in here, such as the traditional song The Rattlin' Bog. For a more personal connection, Daughter of Mine would be perfect for any father-daughter dance or event. It specifically mentions the daughter's wedding day, but the feelings are eternal.



There are poignantly sad songs as well - such as The Way Dreams Are, where a lover is singing about the lost love of his life. With Take Me Home to Mayo, an Irish rebellion hero who has died of a hunger strike is asking to be buried in his home town. These are lovely songs, but might be best kept out of a "romantic songs playlist" if your aim is more upbeat.



It's impressive to compare the traditional songs with the new ones added in. They really blend together quite nicely. In the traditional "The Galway Shawl" you get a tribute to a number of different songs in Irish culture - The Foggy Dew, The Blackbird, and so on. The was a girl without jewelry or diamonds, but her natural beauty shone through. There are several songs about the sadness of leaving Ireland, and the hopes to return there soon.



Well recommended for fans of Irish music in general, and for those having a wedding or romantic event, a few of the songs are exactly perfect for that."