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CD Review: Heartland - Phil Coulter
by Bridget Haggerty

In August 2011, the announcement came that Phil Coulter and Celtic Thunder had gone their separate ways. "Heartland" - A composer's Salute to Celtic Thunder is Mr. Coulter's latest CD and features favorites from many Celtic Thunder releases, including Irelands National Rugby Anthem, "Irelands Call." The album, with its powerful orchestral arrangements, stylish no hold barred production and Mr. Coulter's strong yet sensitive piano playing makes Heartland a unique listening experience. Phil's own words express precisely how it felt for this reviewer when listening to the CD for the first time: "To have the opportunity to revisit this material and hear these melodies breathe and soar through the orchestra has been a joy."

Mr. Coulter also said on his web site: "I have to confess that there are times that I really do miss being involved with Celtic Thunder, the lads,the music and the great adventure...... but not the other stuff. It irks that my departure was abrupt and less than cordial, but life goes on and I've taken great strength from all the messages of support I've been receiving.I love the fact that folks are taking the time and trouble to make contact,from Celtic Thunder fans to diehard Phil Coulter fans to old friends from my University days. Bless you all."

And Diane, an amazon reviewer, had this to say:" I just got the Heartland album today, and I love it. It's classic Coulter, gorgeous arrangements and so emotional. The long time fans of Phil Coulter, like me, already know how he evokes emotions with his music and his orchestra - this album is just wonderful. There are insightful liner notes, about the album in general and comments about each of the songs - what they mean to him and why he chose them for the album. This needs to be part of any Coulter fan's collection. But it's also obviously music for the ears of the Celtic Thunder fans, and I am one of those as well. How Phil ever picked from all the fabulous music he wrote and/or arranged for Celtic Thunder is beyond me - but he did. What a delightful, emotional experience it's been to sit and listen...so many good memories. So, the album needs to be part of any Celtic Thunder fans collection.

Orchestral Celtic music at it's best, composed and arranged by a master. Well done, Mr. Coulter, and thank you so much.
This reviewer says Ditto, Diane!


Special Heartland CD giveaway:
Send an email to Bridget at:
bhaggerty@irishcultureandcustoms.com
Please put Heartland in the subject line and you'll be automatically entered into a drawing to win one of three CDs, courtesy of Mr. Coulter.
Drawing will take place in mid-November


To listen to samples and/or to purchase the CD, please click Amazon

To view a video of the lead track - Heartland - please click Youtube

Sources: Phil Coulter web site

 

Fri, Sep 27, 2024
The Galway Hooker

This unique vessel, with its distinctive curved lines and bright red sails, originated in the village of Claddagh. During the 19th century, hookers supported a significant fishing industry and also carried goods, livestock and fuel. Seán Rainey is remembered for building the last of the original boats, the Truelight, for Martin Oliver who was to become the last king of the Claddagh; as king, he was entitled to white sails on his boat. Since the mid seventies, many of the old sailing craft which were on the verge of extinction have been lovingly restored and new ones have been built. During the summer months they can be seen at festivals such a Cruinniú na mBád - the Gathering of the Boats - in Kinvara.

Click for More Culture Corner.




This is one of Bridget's favorite recordings; we purchased our copy at Blarney Woolen Mills in Cork. Being masters of merchandising, Blarney has music playing all the time while you shop. When Bridget heard Jim's rendition of Grace, she asked one of the assistants who and what it was. She was immediately directed to the music area - name of record and inventory number in hand! It's a wonderfully romantic collection that never fails to stir up the emotions. It also brings back lovely memories of Ireland.
Click here for Jim McCann.




 

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March 4, 2011
   
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