The Young Dubliners
They've earned the reputation of being such a great live band that the Young Dubliners sell out their shows most of the time. And whenever they play for the first time at a new location, their second time is always a full house, word of mouth exclaiming what a great and fantastic live band the Young Dubs, as they affectionately called by their fans, are. And so when my friends raved about them a few years ago, shocking my eardrums to the sound of their lively Irish-inspired rock tunes inside the car, I was sorta convinced. When they finally took me to see a live show, I was a believer.
So it wasn't a surprise to see yet another sold out concert at the House of Blues in Hollywood to celebrate the release of their latest CD, Red, featuring the title track co-written by long-time fan and Elton John songwriter, Bernie Taupin last June. The Young Dubs then went on a nationwide tour, opening for Jethro Tull and John Hiatt, even finding time to write and perform the theme song for Gabriel Bryne's sitcom, The Madigan Men.
Now back home, the Young Dubs are getting ready for their next concert scheduled for December 23rd at the House of Blues in Hollywood, where they've sold out over 30 performances since they began years ago. Songs from their highly acclaimed albums, Red and Alive Alive O will be a staple for this lively band. Also scheduled for its premiere will be the theme song to ABC's Madigan Men, starring Gabriel Bryne.
However, if you thought the Young Dubliners was just another band riding high on the latest wave of Celtic music and dance, think again! For once you get your first earful of their rolicky, high-spirited and exuberant music which lead singer Keith Richards describes as "rock 'n roll with a Celtic touch," you'll realize that the Young Dubs, as their affectionately known to their fans, are in a league all their own.
Described as that "spirited band who rock with a Celtic soul", the Young Dubs kick off the first leg of their North American tour to promote their fourth and latest album, Red, due June 20th. Featuring the title track co-written by Bernie Taupin, known for penning Elton John's greatest hits, "Red" is produced by multiple Grammy winner, Thom Panunzio. The album features tracks like the highly infectious "Bodhran", a Celtic drum heard in the beginning of the song, pronounced 'bo-ran'; the gentle rhythm of "Red" as well as their own rendition of "Fisherman's Blues" guaranteed to have you singing along before the song is over.
The upbeat "Neverending" propelled the Young Dubliners to the third most added spot on Adult Alternative radio while "Stop Me" is going to be a crowd favorite. The Young Dubliners greatest strength has been their live shows and "Red" captures their live energy and unmistakable captivating sound. So check your inhibitions at the door and have a rolicky great time with this album, their best to date and definitely their ticket to the top.
Review by Velvet Durano