Customer Reviews

The Other Side

5 star:		(9)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Blackthorn's third album, "The Other Side", will give listeners an idea of why the lads inspire an almost fanatical devotion in their fans. The songs, written or co-written by singer/guitarist Paul Moore, are surprisingly strong for a first effort (Blackthorn has two previous albums, but they consist of cover material, while "The Other Side" is completely original) and the instrumentals show why Johnny McGroary may be one of the greatest button accordian players in the U.S.

THESE 5 LADS HAVE PUT TOGETHER ONE HELLUVA CD, WITH ALL ORIGINAL MUSIC, YET KEEPING THAT GREAT IRISH SOUND AS WELL!!! THE REELS ARE FABULOUS, AND THE LAST CUT, "THE bALLAD OF THE 15B, IS A BEAUTIFUL, SIMPLE LOVE SONG, WITH WONDERFUL LYRICS. OVERALL A MUST BUY FOR SURE!!

If you want to Rock to Irish music, this is the Best in the states

They were born with Irish spirits, but in an age of rock 'n' roll. So the members of Blackthorn combined the two and came up with a fun, lively collection of tunes on "The Other Side." The band wears its nontraditionalism proudly -- but don't let that fool you. They're just as obviously proud as their Irish heritage. The album, comprising mostly original tunes, is a delightfully irreverent, at times poignant look at the Irish and Irish-American experience.

This CD rocks. Even the Non-Irish will enjoy this great new band. A mixture of traditional Irish song and Rock. If you like this album, find them live in the Philadelphia Area. They're just as good in person.

Blackthorn produced a unique and entertaining CD in their first original venture. They've managed to keep the flavor of the music Irish while adding a Philadelphia Folk-Rock sound. Their roots in the Irish sound are very evident in Kerry Rain and Hugh O'Donnell's Escape. These tunes are reminiscent of traditional Irish songs with a modern update. Blackthorn also keeps the party tunes going with The Drummer's Gotta Go and Road To Anglesea. They have come up with two songs here that could end up cover tunes in any Philly Irish Pub. The songs No Way To Go But Up and Lady Liberty are reminiscent songs reflecting on feelings with the lyrics flow nicely with the music. Perhaps their first original tune, Granuaile, is a fine ballad which includes a nice history lesson for Irish Americans. The CD includes several reels that are more original than most heard today. John McGroary demonstrates his talent staying original not sounding like most Irish and Scottich reels or another reproduction of River Dance. Overall, an outstanding, well-done CD, and an excellent effort for their first original.

Irish lyrics tend to tell a story. These original songs recorded by five marvellous musicians called Blackthorns, continue this Irish tradition from "The Other Side" ... the United States. This is by far the best new Irish CD to come out in years. The Blackthorn band highlights the September Irish Festival in North Wildwood, New Jersey, a must event for East Coast lovers of great Irish music.

Blackthorn's 'THE OTHER SIDE' is one of the best CD's I've heard in a long time. It's hard to believe that this is their first original release CD. If you look at the top bands today, and listen to their first CD, you might be able to say that one or two songs were good. With 'THE OTHER SIDE', every song contains the power and the passion of a "best of' CD. Blackthorn are five talented musicians that never disappoint the audience in their live shows, and won't disappoint them with their new CD. This CD is a must buy for people who love music.

Jim Burns

I am one of those music listeners who would rather NOT hear a live recording of most bands. This is one exception. Blackthorn is a GREAT live band and I love their shows, but was disappointed in this CD. The producer should have made this sound less "pop" and more "Irish". This CD sounds very 80's. On a positive note, the song selection is wonderful. You can see why they have such a devoted following. Buy the CD, but go see them live and you'll hear a difference, the band has much more depth and heart than on this CD.

I purchased my first "Blackthorn" album after hearing a friend playing it. I have seen them in concert, in and around Philly many times since then, and purchased their other three albums. They are equally as great. I can't wait for another to be released. This group appeals to young and older groups...we think they are better than many of the other Celtic Bands with the big names.
Blackthorn is among the best of the Celtic Bands. My dear grandmother of Mayo should have only lived long enough to hear them.