The Long Black Veil - Chieftains (The) (CD 1995)

In the interest of full disclosure, I am of Irish heritage, and yes, I can enjoy a good jig or reel every now and then. But like everyone I am a bit mystified by the current trend of popularity of Riverdance and Irish culture in general. The Chieftains, however, have been popularizing Irish music and culture for decades, and this album is one of their finest acheivements.
Unlike many compilation albums with lots of guest artists, this album is tied together well by the choices of excellent Irish folk songs. It begins with a haunting ghost story (the title song) sung by none other than Mick Jagger. Sting, Sinead O'Connor, Van Morrison and Ry Cooder also have excellent renditions of songs that are incredibly appropriate for their musical styles. The beauty of this album is that it seamlessly mixes the Irish folk music with American rock and pop music. It lets the listener know that one doesn't have to be hit over the head with a jig or a pint of Guiness to enjoy Irish culture, it has been here all along.