The Chieftains: Kevin Conneff (vocals, bodhran); Martin Fay, Sean Keane (fiddle); Derek Bell (harp, tiompan, harpsichord); Matt Molloy (flute); Paddy Moloney (Uilleann pipes, tin whistle).

Additional personnel includes: Jackson Browne (vocals, piano); Rickie Lee Jones, Elvis Costello, Nanci Griffith, Kate & Anna McGarrigle, Marianne Faithfull, The Voice Squad (vocals); Burgess Meredith (spoken vocals); Kathryn Tickell (Northumbrian pipes).

Principally recorded at Windmill Lane Studio, Dublin, Ireland. Includes liner notes by Paddy Moloney.

The Chieftains: Derek Bell (harp, tiompan, harpsichord); Martin Fay, Sean Keane (fiddle); Kevin Coneff (bodhran, vocals); Matt Molloy (flute); Paddy Moloney (uilleann pipes, tin whistle).

Additional personnel: Renaissance Singers (vocals); Brendan Begley (accordion); Suzie Katayama (cello); Kathryn Tickell (northumbrian pipes); David Drinkel (organ); Burgess Meredith, Marianne Faithfull, Ricki Lee Jones, Nanci Griffith, Jackson Browne, The McGarrigles.

Directed by Gerry Hoban.

The twelve bells of Christchurch Cathedral in Dublin are the inspiration for this CD. The bells are rung twice every Sunday, and on special occasions such as the inauguration of the president, or ringing in the New Year. Essentially a Christmas album, this 1991 release features performances by an extraordinary cast of guest musicians sitting in with The Chieftains.

Highlights include "The Wren in The Furze," composed and sung by The Chieftains' own Kevin Conneff, and Elvis Costello's passionate vocal on "The St. Stephen's Day Murders." However, the most moving song on THE BELLS OF DUBLIN is Rickie Lee Jones's version of "O Holy Night." Her low, restrained singing style is entrancing, even sultry. At the song's climax, the sudden conviction of her voice is startling. All the instrumental work on this CD is top-notch, validating traditional Irish music, and making it accessible to modern ears.

Q (12/91) - 4 Stars - Excellent - "...tradition a-plenty with bell ringing, carroling, storytelling (veteran actor Burgess Meredith) as well as strong contemporary material..."

Uncut (8/02, p.100) - 3 out of 5 - "...The Chieftains are a treasure and every home should have at least one of their albums..."

Uncut (8/02, p.100) - 3 out of 5 - "...The Chieftains are a treasure and every home should have at least one of their albums..."