The Great Irish Songbook by Dervish

Hailing from County Sligo, the marvelous Irish folk group Dervish remains true to its roots by offering some of the best-known traditional Irish songs, but with a twist. While Dervish’s vocalist Cathy Jordan sings lead on tracks such as “The Rambling Irishman,” guest singers from Ireland, England, Wales and the U.S. offer their interpretations of other standards. Even if it might be a bit jarring to some, American folk and country artists such as Steve Earle, Vince Gill, Rihannon Giddens, and Abigail Wasburn demonstrate with their voices the international appeal of Irish music. Stand-out songs on the album include “Molly Malone” (with Imelda May)  and “Down by the Sally Gardens” (with Kate Rusby). Have some tissues on hand as you soak in the sweet melancholy of these beautiful tunes.  (Rounder)