The Dubliners with Luke Kelly cover

The Dubliners with Luke Kelly

The Dubliners · 1964

62 min · 24 tracks · folk music

A vibrant tapestry of traditional Irish melodies interwoven with spirited vocals and lively instrumentation that invites sing-alongs.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    The Wild Rover Start here — This track is a quintessential Irish drinking song that showcases the band’s ability to engage audiences with its catchy chorus and lively tempo, becoming a staple in their live performances.
  • →
    Rocky Road to Dublin — The song's rapid tempo and intricate lyrics highlight the band’s storytelling prowess, vividly painting a picture of adventure and hardship in traditional Irish life.
  • →
    Preab San Ól — This track features a blend of traditional Irish instruments and Gaelic lyrics, showcasing the band’s roots while appealing to both native and international listeners.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • sing-along energy with friends
  • quick bursts of lively tunes
  • nostalgic tales of heritage
  • celebratory atmosphere for gatherings
  • easy enjoyment during social events

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer long, immersive pieces
  • seek deep, introspective themes

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album helped popularize Irish folk music and established their wider recognition.
Themes
Irish cultural revival· spirited pub sing-alongs· Dublin street tales
Career context
In 1964, The Dubliners were solidifying their presence in the folk music scene, building on the success of their debut album from 1963. This album features Luke Kelly, whose powerful voice became synonymous with the band’s identity, capturing the essence of Irish folk music during a time of cultural revival in Ireland.
Stylistic neighbors
The Clancy Brothers· The Chieftains· Planxty

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Rocky Road to Dublin

    The narrative shifts from excitement to misfortune, depicting a rough journey filled with trials.

    This structural contrast not only enhances the storytelling but also reflects the resilience often celebrated in Irish culture.

Tracklist

  • 1 The Wild Rover Start here 3:13
  • 2 The Ragman’s Ball 2:08
  • 3 Preab San Ól 2:14
  • 4 The High Reel 2:58
  • 5 The Holy Ground 2:15
  • 6 Tramps and Hawkers 3:06
  • 7 Home Boys Home 3:17
  • 8 Rocky Road to Dublin 2:34
  • 9 Banks of the Roses 2:12
  • 10 I’ll Tell My Ma 2:06
  • 11 Swallow’s Tail Reel 2:49
  • 12 Love Is Pleasing 2:14
  • 13 Jar of Porter 1:47
  • 14 The Nightingale 3:35
  • 15 Rare Old Mountain Dew 1:30
  • 16 McAlpine’s Fusiliers Behan 3:14
  • 17 Willie Gannon 1:39
  • 18 Mrs McGrath 3:06
  • 19 I Wish (Till Apples Grow on an Ivy Tree) 2:11
  • 20 Roddy McCorley 2:46
  • 21 Chief O’Neill’s / Cork Hornpipe 2:55
  • 22 Instrumental 1:08
  • 23 The Wild Rover Start here 3:33
  • 24 The Wild Rover Start here 3:31

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata