Various Artists

Songs from the Sperrins: Traditional Singing from Mid & North Tyrone
Claddagh Records***

TRADITIONAL:Local accents are writ large on this double CD collection of songs and lilting from Co Tyrone. Collectors Peter Smith and Francis Clarke have added immensely to the traditional archive with this extensive anthology. Inevitably, a handful of singers emerge from this 40-track compilation (of understandably variable recording quality), with Hugh Quinn's unequivocal and clear-headed singing capturing the essence of what it means to sing a local song with colour and verve. More a scholarly reference than a casual listening experience, Songs from the Sperrinsis a rich source of tunes and tales that capture the linguistic contradictions and lyrical tributes to times long gone but, doubtless, to places that still remain. The accompanying booklet is a treasure trove of lyrics and musical notation. www.claddagh records.com