What makes The Ale Is Dear by Clandestine notable?

The album is significant for revitalizing interest in traditional Celtic music within the United States during the mid-90s, a time when the genre was experiencing a resurgence. It has been praised for its authentic arrangements and energetic performances, earning positive reviews from folk music critics and contributing to the band's growing fanbase. When 'The Ale Is Dear' was released in 1996, Clandestine was establishing itself in the burgeoning American Celtic music scene. This album followed their debut, which had garnered attention for its authentic sound and instrumental prowess, solidifying their reputation as a notable ensemble in the genre.

How many songs are on The Ale Is Dear?

The Ale Is Dear has 12 tracks, running approximately 50 minutes.

Released 30 years ago

The Ale Is Dear

Clandestine · 1996

50 min · 12 tracks · Celtic music

Energetic traditional melodies intertwine with lively rhythms, capturing the joyful spirit of Celtic folk music.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Atholl Highlanders — This opening track sets the tone with its lively tempo and intricate instrumentation, showcasing the band's skill and inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the traditional sound.
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The Ale Is Dear — The title track encapsulates the album's spirit, blending catchy melodies with spirited lyrics that celebrate camaraderie and revelry, making it a standout among listeners.
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Rocky Road to Dublin — This well-known Irish folk song highlights the band's ability to reinterpret classic tunes with exuberance and authenticity, drawing listeners into a narrative-rich musical journey.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album effectively blends traditional melodies with engaging rhythms, showcasing strong craftsmanship and inviting listener interaction.

What we noticed

The album opens with a lively instrumental track that sets a brisk tempo, which is maintained through the first half of the record.
Several tracks feature call-and-response vocals, creating an interactive feel that invites listener participation.
The last three tracks slow down the pace significantly, providing a contrast to the energetic earlier songs and allowing for moments of reflection.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Atholl Highlanders 3:53
2 Polka Set 3:31
3 Ottawa 4:32
4 Drover's Lad 4:47
5 Gravel Walk 2:56
6 Tornado Song 3:15
7 The Ale Is Dear 3:43
8 Cullen Bay 6:34
9 Saucy Sailor 4:15
10 Paddy's Set 6:10
11 Rocky Road to Dublin 2:47
12 Lucy Cassidy 4:16

What to play next

Listen next

The Haunting

1997

Full Clandestine discography Artists like Clandestine

Celtic music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata