Established to promote the Irish language through cultural activities, Gael Linn began issuing records as far back as the early 1950s. Initially these were mainly live performances of traditional, cabaret and classical concerts. A change of policy in the late 1960s saw the organisation embrace a wider, international range of influences.
The 1960s folk boom influenced many of the artists included here. The lovely lilting title-track, which will bring a nostalgic tear or two to the eyes of those of a certain age, comes from the seminal Irish folk group Emmet Spiceland, featuring a very young Donal Lunny. Sounding like a cross between Peter, Paul & Mary and The Association, We 4 (featuring Larry Hogan) offer ‘Coilín’ and ‘Ná hOscail do Bheola’ while ‘Glean Na Smol’ from Deirdre Downes & the Broadsiders veers towards Dusty Springfield pop.
Another hugely influential folk outfit of the time, The Johnstons, featuring a young Paul Brady, are represented by two familiar ballads, ‘Gleanta Ghlas Gaoth Dobhair’ and ‘An Banbh’. Both feature impressive harmonies and tasty playing.
Sean O’Sea’s rousing ‘An Poc ar Buile’ is arguably the best-known and most enduring track. Also noteworthy are a pair of tracks from Tomas Mac Eoin, Tomas Mac Con Iomaire and Martin MacDonnchadh, with backing and arrangement from Eyeless featuring Hot Press “Governor” Niall Stokes, Dermot Stokes and Gary O Briain. Tríona, Maighréad and Micheaál O Domhnaill sound more like an Appalachian than an Irish trio on ‘Caitlín Tiriall’, while the early Clannad track ‘An Bealach Seo ’ta Romham’ showcases just how sophisticated the Donegal siblings were as far back as 1975. All told, a fascinating collection.

Key Track: 'Gleanta Glas Gaoth Dobhair'