Search - Daniel O'Donnell :: Two Sides of

An Album with Sentimental Value

Joan | Athens, PA USA | 07/30/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"THE TWO SIDES OF DANIEL O'DONNELL was not the first album recorded by Daniel, but was the first to be released, and the year was 1985. (THE BOY FROM DONEGAL album mostly recorded in 1984 was his very first but was not released until 1987). After a slow start, TWO SIDES OF did well and helped launch his recording career along with a previously released single of "My Donegal Shore", which is included in this album. It did not reach the U.K.'s charts upon release, but did after his next album (I NEED YOU) appeared on the charts the following year. Subsequent albums and videos have all appeared on U.K.'s pop and video charts and dominated the country charts entering at the top. His sensational rise to fame has been well-deserved.This foot-tapping country album is special to me not only because of all the beautiful songs, but because it has sentimental value being Daniel's first album released. If I had heard Daniel's voice for the first time back in 1985, I would have immediately become a fan, as I did when first hearing and seeing him on PBS several months ago. Billy Burgoyne, who is presently Daniel's bandleader, adds his perfect rhythmic percussion backing. He and the rest of the band make for wonderful listening. The beautiful "Green Glens of Antrim" and "Blue Hills of Breffni", in addition to "Crying My Heart Out Over You", "Your Old Love Letters", and "I Wouldn't Change You If I Could" showcase Daniel's beautiful voice. If you have begun a collection of Daniel's music, you should DEFINITELY include this album. I predict Daniel will gain an ever-growing and loyal following in the U.S., as he has in Ireland, the U.K., and Australia. See him when he performs in Branson, Missouri, and watch for him on tour next year here in the States and Canada. He is an esteemed entertainer of the highest calibre, and one Ireland can take pride in."