From the Archives (CD) by Tommy Makem

Tommy Makem has always been considered one of the major forces on the Irish music scene. Best known for his work with the Clancy Brothers, he became one of Ireland's premier balladeers and folk singers. This release is a collection of some of his early recordings that have been unavailable for many years. FROM THE ARCHIVES gives listeners a chance to hear rare and inimitable performances of over 20 Irish classics.

Among the songs featured in ARCHIVES are "Going Home to Mary," "As I Roved Out," and "Song of the Wandering Aengus." On the latter, Makem tells the tale of a magical girl who appears in a vision then suddenly vanishes. The storyteller revels in his memory of this beautiful woman and vows to find her some day. Many of the songs here highlight the poetic beauty of Irish music, including its witty sense of humor and romanticism. Makem's versions of these songs are as definitive as they are rousing.