Customer Reviews

Ratty Shoes

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

 

 

When I first saw Blackthorn, it was in their natural habitit, on stage. A great, jumping pub act, I was promptly hooked on these Philadelphia Irish rockers. Their first album, The Other Side, was very good, but lacked the polish of a major recording artist. The followup, Ratty Shoes, suffers from none of the occassional awkwardness of that first record. The production is first rate and the songs are up to the increased scrutiny. From the bouncy pub stompers like the title track, to the traditional button-accordian instrumentals, to the reflective ballads like "The Border", this album is a complete package that truly defines Blackthorn as a band ready to break into the mainstream. The balance between rock and roll and traditional Irish folk sounds is just right, with neither overwhelming the other. Tying it all together is Paul Moore's passionate, homespun vocals. Black 47 and The Saw Doctors need to make room, because Blackthorn have just joined them on the top step of the Irish Rock genre.

Once again these guys have pulled it off again! I didnt think
that the "Other Side" could be topped! The cover soundtrack
"Ratty Shoes" starts off with newcomer Michael Boyce singing
lead vocals and will bring your heart right back to Ireland. From Paul Moore's "Jig Junk" to the insanely talented John McGroary ( and I truely meant that) on button acordian with "Clearmountain Aire" gets your feet in steppin gear! But you
have to see these guys "live", unbelievable energy is put out
for every show. Whether these guys are jumping and kicking to every tune their drummer Mike O'Callahan is beating his heart
out with those ever so RED sneakers! But this is truely heart at
work with lyrics by Blackthorn! Great work guys! Buy this CD and
listen to great lyrics performed by a band that has proven
themselves once again!

The lads from Philly & Ireland have done it again. Although I have long been waiting for the new release, I was apprehensive that they wouldn't be able to top their spectacular original debut, The Other Side. But the boys have proven me wrong - quite simply, this album is fantastic.

From Moore's magical storytelling, to the Boyce Brothers' pop/country tunes, McGroary's reels, Seamus Kelleher's' electrifying guitar work and Mike O'Callaghan keeping the beat (and writing a new tune), this record does not have a single weak spot on it. Personally, I have always been a huge fan of Paul Moore's songwriting, but there are no slouches in this band.

Very highly recommended for fans of Celtic music, pop music and/or country music. And if you can, catch the boys live - it's something to see.

How lucky I am to hear Blackthorn just about whenever I want to in a LIVE performance. This CD is spectacular -- full of magic Irish Charm. I love all of their CD's, but I do think this one is their best to date.

WHAT A WONDERFUL MIX OF MUSIC FROM THE BOYS OF BLACKTHORN! I WAS BLOWN AWAY BY THEIR LAST, ORIGINAL CD, "THE OTHER SIDE" AND WONDERED IF THEY COULD TOP IT.........AND THIS COLLECTION IS EQUAL TO THE TASK! FROM THE FUN-FILLED "JIG JUNK" TO THE HEART-FELT LYRICS OF "THE BORDER" , THESE LADS ARE TRULY, ORIGINAL!

Excellent. As good as anything by popular artists, blending Irish music with a popular beat. Well worth the purchase