Customer Reviews

The High Kings: Live in Dublin

5 star:		(49)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

At this point, I think people associate David Downes with the Internationally sensational group, Celtic Woman. In that group, what started as a humble beginning, the act of putting together an incredible show for PBS, grew into a world-renowned and world-loved music.

Well, he did it again. Each of these singers and performers are true musicians- they sing, they play, they come from families of musicians, and they perform in such a way that leaves the audience breathless after each song- either because of the excitement in the song, such as "Marie's Wedding", "Phil the Fluther's Ball", "Rocky Road to Dublin" (to name a few); or by the gentle longing harmonies found in "Galway to Graceland", "Paddy's Green Shamrock Shore", and "The Parting Glass".

One point I would like to emphasize- this is by no means an attempt to make masculine Celtic Woman; this is not Celtic Man. This is a group of men who each bring a unique sound to make wonderful harmonies found in each of these songs on the DVD. Celtic Woman has a healthy blend of multi-cultural songs- classics, modern, new, and traditional folk ballads. The High Kings only perform Irish ballads, and they bring great credit to the songs they perform.

These songs are not lullabies, by any stretch of the imagination (IMO). "Marie's Wedding" and "Phil the Fluther's Ball" (which makes Brian Dunphy sound like a Celtic Elvis- fantastic!) left my heart racing after I heard them one night (OK, about the 4th or 5th time that night)- I honestly got about 2 hours of sleep after listening to these songs. But that's how good they are. If music can make the listener excited and provoke emotion and enthusiasm, the job of the "music-makers" is fulfilled. If that were the job-description of the High Kings: to leave the listeners and audiences breathless, excited, happy, joyful, then their job is complete.

This music, while the songs are Irish ballads, are not solely meant for the Irish or for those with Irish blood. These are meant for all people to enjoy. Great music does not discriminate among gender, age, or race; and this is great music.

Sorry to say that I've never heard of this group before. But I saw them on PBS TV last night and I was so blown away by these guys, that I just had to buy the DVD and CD today so I can watch and listen to them any time I want. I was so mesmerized by their voices, the song choices, the Bodhrans (Irish drums) and a even little Irish dancing!!!

Watching this program, it brought back wonderful memories of my Grandfather. He came to the US in the early 1900's from County Cork, Ireland so I was raised by listening to Celtic music and watching him dance his Irish jig...especially after taking some wee sips of the Irish whiskey!!!

To wrap this comment up, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this to anyone who loves Celtic/Irish music!!!

We are fans of Ireland and Irish music. The DVD of The High Kings in Dublin has such great harmonies, clear voices, great staging of bag pipes, dancing so closely tied to the music, and much more. The selection of songs is great and the four men move in the Irish tradition.
The CD can not cover the contribution of movements on stage.

I rate this the best DVD I have seen, although I am a great fan of the old Irish Tenors.

A great selection of songs. The movements on stage and the contribution of the audience make this a great show.

I hear that the High Kings will be the opening act for Celtic Woman's tour...that would be a star-studded evening for sure. I can't say enough about this DVD: handsome, full-voiced Irishmen who love their country and its history - who bring so much musical talent individually to this group and who love to get the audience fully involved in each beautiful number. I find myself happily humming their tunes over and over in my head. David Downes has done another fantastic job at the helm of this wonderful project.

If you liked the Clancy Brothers or if you like traditional Irish music you are going to LOVE the High Kings. This is Irish entertainment at it's best. The show has everything - great music, beautiful harmony, step dancing - the works. This is the best DVD I have ever seen for traditional Irish music and I have a large collection. Buy this and send it to your favorite Irish person. It is absolutely wonderful!

If you like this type of music, don't even hestate. go for it You won't regret it.

Nothing to add really to all the glowing reviews here. I first heard them on a St Patricks Day special on TV and immediately bought the CD. The harmonies have the rich layers of the old Crosby Stills and Nash days but done in the Irish style that is foot-stomping, mournful, reflective, spiritual and ultimately triumphant. Just an incredible CD, you won't be disappointed.

The High Kings are uplifting and just make you want to join in! I too saw the PBS broadcast and have watched it several times. I love my cd and play it a lot!! Will be watching for them to come to the states, as I would love to see them.

Like another reviewer, I saw this group on a PBS channel and was blown away. The DVD is now one of my favorites. I like nearly all Celtic music, and this concert had a nice range and variety. And now I see the High Kings are headed to the U.S. on tour, and I plan to be there.

I love this DVD, I am glad it was recommended or I probably never would have seen it.