The Chieftains 10: Cotton-Eyed Joe cover

The Chieftains 10: Cotton-Eyed Joe

The Chieftains · 1981

36 min · 11 tracks · folk

Traditional Irish folk melodies intertwine with lively rhythms, showcasing a vibrant cultural tapestry of instrumentation and storytelling.

Why this album works

'Cotton-Eyed Joe' was pivotal in bringing Irish folk music to a wider audience, contributing to the genre's revival during the 1980s. The album received critical acclaim and helped the band secure a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Folk Recording, further establishing their influence in the global folk scene.
Best for
dynamic journey through traditions lively rhythms for social gatherings short tracks with vibrant energy
Context
Released in 1981, 'The Chieftains 10: Cotton-Eyed Joe' marked The Chieftains' continued evolution as ambassadors of Irish music following their commercial breakthrough with 'The Chieftains 7' in 1979. By this time, they were solidifying their reputation internationally, blending traditional folk with contemporary influences.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 The Christmas Reel 2:55
  • 2 Salut à la Compagnie 3:21
  • 3 Kiss Me Kate / The Custom Gap / The Spindle Shank / My Love Is in America Standout 4:04
  • 4 Manx Music 3:42
  • 5 Master Crowley’s Reels 1:35
  • 6 The Pride of Pimlico 2:10
  • 7 An Faire (The Gold Ring) Standout 3:40
  • 8 Durzhunel (The Turtle Dove) 6:50
  • 9 Sir Arthur Shaen / Madam Cole 4:02
  • 10 Garech’s Wedding 1:38
  • 11 Cotton‐Eyed Joe Standout 2:18

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata