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The Voice Squad's album Holly Wood was largely recorded in the 1000-year-old St. Kevin's church in Hollywood in Co. Wicklow, whose acoustics give an extra special aura to the recording. The Voice Squad are an a cappella vocal group who sing songs in a very old, very traditional manner; unaccompanied. They are Phil Callery, Fran McPhail and Gerry Cullen and together their voices mix in the most beautiful way. Holly Wood includes songs such as 'I am Stretched on Your Grave', 'Jimmy Murphy', and 'The Brown and Yellow Ale', once a favourite of James Joyce. This album is for those who like traditional music in a different vein. Holly Wood is a perfect gift for Christmas for loved ones, or just for yourself. |
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When 'Many's The Foolish Youth' was first released on vinyl in 1987, Fran Mc Phail, Gerry Cullen and Phil Callery were three well known traditional Irish singers but they had not yet named themselves The Voice Squad. They were singing songs which had long, if not ancient, histories. For example 'The Bonny Irish Maid' was spread by ballad-sheet sellers all over Ireland and Britain in the last century. The 'Kilmore Carol' was originally published in 1684. 'The Holly She Bears A Berry' is an Easter carol which combines elements of paganism and older beliefs with Christianity. 'When A Man's In Love' is a night-visiting song found all over Ireland and in the New World. These folk songs are sung by one of the most beautiful and memorable trio of voices you will ever hear. |