The High Kings (DVD)

History is full of legend telling of the rulers of Ireland... the high kings. Since their reign the only remaining tales are those told in song, story and music. Ireland is marked for revival, but not by the ghosts of kings long past. The people have opened their arms, ears and hearts to a new kind of kingdom, that of The High Kings, a four-part vocal phenomena taking the UK and US by storm. Not a drop of blood was shed, but conquest belongs to musicians Martin Furey, Finbarr Clancy, Brian Dunphy and Darren Holden. Their self-titled debut The High Kings delivers the individual talent of each singer collectively as if they have been singing together for years. Before joining forces in 2007 all had successful individual careers with solo albums, TV appearances, extensive touring and multiple theatrical avenues. All roads seem to have prepared them and led them to The High Kings so that the resulting compilation is a mature, complex initiative by the same man who created the renowned Celtic Woman. The High Kings rolls easily into your day like a gentle fog over a grassy green meadow in the highlands. Tradition and a deep love for everything Irish is evident from the very first song "Paddy's Green Shamrock Shore." The lilting ballad is romantic in both melody and lyrics, while the harmonies bring the content seamlessly together. Each song is a testament to the beauty of Ireland. "Will Ye Go Lassie, Go?" begins with the calling of the low whistle that melts softly as the song describes a yearning heart and fields of blooming heather. "Marie's Wedding" recounts the boisterous gaiety of a happy day while rows of eager people gather to dance and celebrate: Heel for heel and toe for toe. If you lack Irish blood this song will transfuse you with all the high spirits needed to enjoy a true Celtic festival. The High Kings is neither all melancholy nor too jolly, each song smacks with just the right dose of Irish sincerity to lure the listener. "Galway To Graceland" takes a look at the love of another king and, though the a cappella tone conveys a serious nature, the lyrics reveal both humor and sorrow of misguided affection. "Fields Of Glory" begins with distinct Irish flavor, yet the song's chorus continues with a more modern pop quality to cross musical boundaries and generations. Those that crave a complete Celtic experience won't be disappointed with the traditional "Ar Eireann Ni Neosainn Ce Hi," the energetic instrumental "The Beggarman Jig" and the bonus track of a rousing "The Wild Rover." It would be inaccurate to call The High Kings merely another Irish album. It is an experience seeped in tradition, driven by harmony and an intense desire to awaken the Irish soul through music.