Search - Murphy, Clifford :: Star Above the Garter

The Heart of Sliabh Luachra

Matthew H. Mcconeghy | Rhode Island, USA | 05/19/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Denis Murphy (b 1910) and his sister Julia Clifford (b 1914)were born to a Co. Kerry family of "music morning, noon and night." Their teacher was the legendary Padraig O'Keefe. Julia emigrated to Britain and played fiddle all her life, winning the All Ireland title and playing in numerous combinations and venues to an advanced age. Denis emigrated to America and played with a long list of musical heroes, James Morrison, Andy McGann, etc. This seminal 1960s recording includes just their two fiddles, no accompaniment (nor needs any!) This is brilliant and pure Irish fiddling - fine reels, emotive slow airs, and polkas, including the now ubiquitous Ballysdesmonds 1,2,3. There is delicate ornamentation and technically fine playing, but this is not about showing off, this is about how tunes sound when they are played with love, respect, memory and sense of place. This recording is a cornerstone of any Irish music collection."