Marc Gunn

Scotland leads this hour. The Occasionals mark forty years of ceilidh dance music, a Glasgow harp and fiddle duo spins out a Gaelic river tune, and Shooglenifty bring the Acid Croft to Stamina Island. Syr adds Celtic folk rock from South Carolina, while Irish and Scottish threads weave together across the whole show. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #781.  –  –  Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson, Clann An Drumma, McFloosey, Téada, Enda Reilly, Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald, The Occasionals, Clay Babies, Jay Michaels, Rebecca Hill and Charlie Stewart, Shooglenifty, Cats and Crows, MacCumhaill and the Gang, Syr, Gerry Maguire

Marc Gunn, Téada, Shooglenifty, Enda Reilly, The Occasionals, Syr, Clann An Drumma, Rebecca Hill and Charlie Stewart

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now! All regular polls close on Friday, December 4, 2026 at 9 AM Eastern.

0:02 – Intro: Tiffany Kerruish of Fynoderee Distillery on the Isle of Man

4:15 – Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson “The Geese in the Bog” from Once Through the Hall

7:50 – WELCOME

9:16 – Clann An Drumma “Scots Wha Hae” from Boudica's Revenge

12:38 – McFloosey “Kiss Kill or Marry Me” from Balscadden Bay

Pronunciation: Balscadden is “bal – SCAD – en.”

17:41 – Téada with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra conducted by Karen Ní Bhroin “James Murray's / Porthole of the Kelp / The Watchmaker / The Spinning Wheel (reels)” from Orchestrating 25

Pronunciation: Téada is “TAY – duh.” Karen Ní Bhroin is roughly “KAIR – en nee VRIN”

21:30 – Enda Reilly “The Roaring Cliffs of Moher” from The Mystery

24:12 – FEEDBACK

27:40 – Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald “Gealach Bhuidhe an Abachaidh (The Harvest Moon)” from Christina

Pronunciation (approximate): “GYAL – ukh VOO – yuh un AH – puh – khee.”

31:54 – The Occasionals “The Call of The Pipes” from The Occasionals at 40

34:36 – Clay Babies “Transom Jolly” from In Other Words

38:09 – Jay Michaels “The Lark in the Clear Air” from On a Quiet Street Where Old Ghosts Meet

40:53 – Rebecca Hill and Charlie Stewart “Abhainn Hotaroil” from Glas

Pronunciation (best guess): “AH – vin HOT – uh – roil.” Glas is “glass”

43:23 – THANKS

45:08 – Shooglenifty “Stamina Island” from Stamina Island

51:36 – Cats and Crows “The Tide and the Quay” from This Time Will Pass Anyway

56:34 – MacCumhaill and the Gang “The Old Hag of Galway” from 2

Pronunciation: MacCumhaill is “muh – COOL”

1:00:46 – Syr “Coronach” from Ruin

Pronunciation: Syr is “sire.” Coronach is “COR – uh – nukh”

1:04:17 – CLOSING

1:05:05 – Gerry Maguire “An Cú Abú  –  Rise Up”

Pronunciation: An Cú Abú is “un KOO uh – BOO”

1:08:41 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at   www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Here's a quick note about a local win. A lot of city streetlights still run on older high – pressure sodium lamps. When towns swap those out for LEDs, the energy use of those lights has dropped by roughly half or more in Department of Energy demonstration projects. LEDs also last longer, so there are fewer repair trips. That's real money coming back into a local budget.

The good news is that this is one of the easiest upgrades a community can make. Ask your city or county public works office whether your streetlights have been switched to LED. If they haven't, a friendly email or a few minutes at a council meeting can put it on the agenda. Small local decisions add up, and brighter, cheaper streets are a great place to start.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic songwriter and musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories, your backstage pass to Celtic songwriters and the stories they’d only tell you after a few pints.

Every artist on this show is an independent voice, sharing their music from a kitchen, a studio, or a little stage near you. When a song or a tune moves you, tell them. Send an email and say you’re listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. A few kind words can fuel a musician all season long.

This is more than a radio show. It’s a gathering of people who love Celtic music and culture, and like any good gathering, it thrives when everyone brings something. Support the musicians you love. Buy a CD, an Album Pin, a shirt, or a digital download. Or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Mark your calendar. The Second Annual Celtic PodFest and Nerdy Arts Market is coming to The Lost Druid Brewery in Avondale Estates, Georgia. It’s Sunday, February 28, from 11 am until 6 pm the morning.

Enjoy live Celtic music from Olivia Bradley, The BorderCollies, and May Will Bloom, plus a solo set from me, The Celtfather. Wander the Nerdy Arts Market, packed with independent makers. Grab a pint, meet the artists, and spend the day with your Celtic community.

Get all the details at celticmusic.org

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood – burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one – of – a – kind feel you won't find anywhere else.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

Every episode of this podcast gets made because of our patrons. Your monthly support helps me promote the show so more people find great Celtic music. It buys music from the artists we feature. It even covers the server costs that keep everything running. Thank you.

Patrons also get to be part of a friendly community of Celtic music fans, with a place to chat about the music we all love. There’s free stuff too, like Emerald Wave, our 2026 field guide to modern Celtic music.

Thanks to our Celtic Legends: Fuzzy, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Dan mcDade, Jeff Adelsberger, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Round Rock Image Creators, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

Every year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2027, we're hiking the Isle of Skye. Head on over to http://celticinvasion.com/.

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

What are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Sean Malloy of Band O'Brothers emailed: “Hi Marc,

I filled out the Google form as part of the permission process, but I felt I should give you some more info about the songs.

“Merrymeeting” is the lone instrumental on the album.  The style, however, is not what I would classify as “Irish” or “Celtic.”  Still, Anthony did a lovely job with this composition and we're quite proud of it.

“Elm City Ramble” is a song about our beloved nearby city of New Haven, and it names several local places and highlights the terrific New Haven St. Patrick's Day parade, so it's VERY fun and in line with your podcast BUT each chorus ends with the line “haul our asses outta here,” which might be a bit too risque for your typical repertoire.  If you don't play it on the podcast, at least give it a listen  –  it's a fun one.  There's a video for it, too

“Bygones” is very catchy, but again, NOT the most Celtic sounding thing.  More of a rock/pop feel to it.  But it's a banger!

“Ice Keeps” is about the incredible 1914 Antarctic expedition and survival mission of Sir Ernest Shackleton and his crew aboard the doomed ship Endurance.

“Tiny Hands” was written by Jeff as a surprise song for the father – daughter dance at the wedding of his daughter Meghan last fall.  It's a beautiful song about a girl becoming a woman, told from the perspective of an adoring father.

“The Legend of Pat McGroin” is about Steve and Anthony's father, Pat, who occasionally plays accordion with us.  The DePaolo boys took a golf trip to Ireland earlier this year, and that trip gave Anthony all the material for that song.  Pat actually plays on it with us.  Gotta love getting dad into the act!

Those are the most pertinent notes for now.  Please let me know if you have any questions at all.  We hope you can fit some of these songs on the podcast.

We're also hoping that you can play some of our songs from our Christmas EP on one of the Christmas shows this year

All this stuff can also be accessed via our website: https://www.bandobrothers.com/

Orkney – born fiddler Louise Bichan joins the show to talk about Binnorie, her third solo album, arriving October 30 on Adhyâropa Records. It grew out of her All Hallows’ Eve live show and gathers Scottish folk tales, trowie legends, and eerie ballads. Three tracks from the album anchor an hour of Halloween music from Scotland, Ireland, and beyond. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #780.  –  –  Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Tan and Sober Gentlemen, Clann An Drumma, Tallymoore, Adam Agee & Jon Sousa, Niamh Dunne, Louise Bichan, Across The Pond, Mary – Grace Autumn Lee, Brobdingnagian Bards, Willos’ & Massimo Giuntini, House of Hamill, Seán Heely, Marys Lane, Aaron Dolan, The Bordercollies, Matt & Shannon Heaton

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

Voting is important. Whether for the podcast or for your government. I’ll tell you why.

We visited the canyons on family vacation at the start of October.

A woman at Hell's Backbone Grill in Boulder, Utah, told me about a couple who love the land as much as we did. But didn’t realize their voting hurt the land they loved

They didn't know their candidate's record on public lands.

In July, Grand Staircase – Escalante lost about 90% of its protection.

One election choice. And some of the land they loved was no longer available.

They just didn't have the full picture.

We need these lands federally protected.

Early voting in Georgia runs through October 30. Election Day is November 3.

The climate is on every ballot.

Please take ten minutes today. Look up your candidates. Then vote.

0:02 – Intro: Louise Bichan

0:10 – Tan and Sober Gentlemen “Samhain’s March” from Regressive Folk Music

2:58 – WELCOME

4:40 – Clann An Drumma “Samhain” from Boudica’s Revenge

7:36 – Tallymoore “The Sons of Molly Maguire” from Drive

11:30 – Adam Agee & Jon Sousa “Maids of the Mourne Shore / Niel Gow’s Lament for the Death of his Second Wife” from Suantraí

19:12 – Niamh Dunne “When Autumn Comes” from Portraits

22:05 – FEEDBACK

25:01 – INTERVIEW  –  Louise Bichan

31:38 – Louise Bichan “Greenwood Sidie – O” from Binnorie.

37:12 – INTERVIEW – About the Album

41:28 – Louise Bichan “Trowie Tale” from Binnorie.

45:32 – INTERVIEW – Rapid Fire Questions

48:58 – Louise Bichan “Spooky Night Cat” from Binnorie

53:01 – INTERVIEW  –  Closing

53:31 – Across The Pond “October Winds” from Little Beggarman

57:01 – Mary – Grace Autumn Lee “Autumn’s Fall: Drummond Castle / Brendan Tonra’s / The Yellow Wattle (Jigs)” from Eyre

1:01:21 – Brobdingnagian Bards “Dragon’s Graveyard” from Another Faire to Remember

1:03:52 – Willos’ & Massimo Giuntini “The Ghost” from From Now On

Pronunciation: Giuntini = joon – TEE – nee

1:09:09 – House of Hamill “Unquiet Grave” from Wildfire

1:13:49 – THANKS

1:15:29 – Seán Heely “Dr. Midnight, Death, and the 10th Life” from Dramagical

1:19:27 – Marys Lane “Road Less Traveled / Harvest Home” from Wild Unknown

1:22:29 – Aaron Dolan “The Banshee’s Wail: Lament for the Departed” from Farewell to Tír na nÓg

1:23:35 – The Bordercollies “Twa Corbies” from To The Hills and Back

1:27:08 – CLOSING

1:28:49 – Matt & Shannon Heaton “Buried My Wife and Danced on Her Grave / Paddy Fahey’s / Aherne’s Egg (Jigs)” from Whirring Wings.

1:33:00 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at   www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Early voting is open in many states right now. It’s a great time to think about the power bills and the air in your own neighborhood.

Here’s some good news. According to Wall Street firm Lazard, solar and onshore wind are still the lowest – cost new sources of electricity in the U.S., even without subsidies.

Many of the people who decide how your power gets made are on your local ballot. That means city councils, county commissions, state legislators, and in nine states this year, the utility commission that sets your electric rates.

So before you vote, look up where candidates stand on clean energy and a healthy environment. Early voting dates vary by state, and Election Day is November 3. Find yours at vote.gov.

Thanks for listening, and thanks for voting.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic songwriter and musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories, your backstage pass to Celtic songwriters and the stories they’d only tell you after a few pints.

Every artist on this show is an independent voice, sharing their music from a kitchen, a studio, or a little stage near you. When a song or a tune moves you, tell them. Send an email and say you’re listening on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. A few kind words can fuel a musician all season long.

This is more than a radio show. It’s a gathering of people who love Celtic music and culture, and like any good gathering, it thrives when everyone brings something. Support the musicians you love. Buy a CD, an Album Pin, a shirt, or a digital download. Or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Pull up a chair. The music is about to begin.

Mark your calendar. The Second Annual Celtic PodFest and Nerdy Arts Market is coming to The Lost Druid Brewery in Avondale Estates, Georgia. It’s Sunday, February 28, from 11 am until 6 pm.

Enjoy live Celtic music from Olivia Bradley, The BorderCollies, and May Will Bloom, plus a solo set from me, The Celtfather. Wander the Nerdy Arts Market, packed with independent makers. Grab a pint, meet the artists, and spend the day with your Celtic community.

Get all the details at celticmusic.org

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood – burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one – of – a – kind feel you won't find anywhere else.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

Every episode of this podcast gets made because of our patrons. Your monthly support helps me promote the show so more people find great Celtic music. It buys music from the artists we feature. It even covers the server costs that keep everything running. Thank you.

Patrons also get to be part of a friendly community of Celtic music fans, with a place to chat about the music we all love. There’s free stuff too, like Emerald Wave, our 2026 field guide to modern Celtic music.

Thanks to our newest Patrons of the Podcast: Band o’Brothers

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

Every year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2027, we're hiking the Isle of Skye. Head on over to http://celticinvasion.com/.

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

What are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Keith Muhlenkamp emailed: “Hello Marc!

I've been listening to the podcast since the original songhenge days, but have never reached out before today. I just finished listening to the Celtic Protest Songs episode, and I wanted to say thank you.  I really enjoyed the back stories of the songs, and how they're especially relevant today.  I increased my subscription, to help offset any losses you have as a result of that episode.  Hopefully there won't be many!  Thanks for speaking up regardless.

I listen to the podcast while doing many things!  From planting a garden to harvesting ducks to having a beer with friends, the podcast is a consistent companion. Thanks again for sharing this wonderful, powerful music.

If your hip can handle it and you find yourself in Portland, Oregon, I'll happily take you for a run and a beer! ”

Woodland Folk sent a bunch of pictures:

Mary Donahue emailed back in March: “Hi Marc,

I'm glad you reached out as I have been meaning to email you specifically about the protest songs episode. I love getting this podcast on a regular basis, it is joyful and reminds me to continue to celebrate my deep Irish roots. But Episode 749 was really special. Besides loving that you opened with the Dropkick Murphys, the song selection reminded me that our ancestors lived through horrific times, such as those we are currently experiencing, and survived to write songs for us to remember and honor their hard times and ultimate successes.

I found that episode to be encouraging and inspirational. And thank you for reminding us to work to save our planet and our democracy, even when others don't agree with this sentiment. Please keep up the great work, I appreciate all that you do!”

A ghost who won’t let the dead rest. A drowned sister and a harp made of bone. And a toast to good health. Pub Songs & Stories brings you the stories behind the songs, from the heart of the Celtic pub scene. Music from House of Hamill, Kilted Kings, Louise Bichan.

This is Pub Songs & Stories #319

0:20 – House of Hamill “Unquiet Grave” from Wildfire

5:00 – WELCOME TO PUB SONGS & STORIES

Your backstage pass to Celtic songwriters and the stories they’d only tell you after a few pints. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic songwriter and also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

If you’re new to the show, please follow us. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather.

5:46 – TODAY’S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY MY GUNN RUNNERS OF PATREON

The regular music business is beholden to big corporations that are raising ticket prices and making the business ever more difficult. But with your help, I don’t have to worry about that stuff. I make music, podcasts, videos, and blogs. I share them with you. In return, you show a little support by pledging as little as $5 per month to help me keep doing what I do.

HERE’S WHAT’S NEW ON PATREON IN OCTOBER

7:20 – CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC

The podcast launches on October 25. I dug into the archives of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast as part of a 2026 Fundraiser. The show is trying to raise $2000 to cover all of the expenses of putting on the show. If you would like to donate go to CelticChristmasMusic.net/donate

9:21 – BATTLE OF THE BARD SONGS

Brobdingnagian Bards new podcast series is now live. In this first series The Bards pick their favorite Irish Pub Songs, then battle them out until a winner is picked. BardBootlegs.com

9:58 – UPCOMING SHOWS

11:06 – PUB SONGS & STORIES VIDEO

Raise your glass: here’s a toast to good health, good friends, and the craythur that calls us all to the pub. Welcome to Pub Songs & Stories audio edition. I share a song I’ve recorded followed by the story behind it.

11:39 – Kilted Kings “Sláinte Mhaith” from Flower of Scotland

Slainte mhaith. Slainte mhaith

Here's to your good health one and all

If you're soul feels rather thirsty

And you hear the craythur call

Raise up your glass

Sing Slainte mhaith

Many times in my life

I forgot the kindness code

I reaped the sorry seeds that I sowed

But when I gave, instead of took

That's when my spirit growed

My charity turned into liquid gold

Your work weeks’s a bare

You’re feeling rather low

You head down to the pub to watch a show

There the singer makes you smile

And the music makes you glow

Go to KiltedKings.com before you go

If there’s a song you’d like to see me perform, email follow@celtfather to make a live song request. Some, I will post here on the podcast. Some will be video only.

13:41 – STORY: Sláinte Mhaith

19:42 – TODAY’S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don’t see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos.

Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com.

Come hike with me on the Isle of Skye in 2027.

20:39 – STORY FROM LOUISE BICHAN

Louise Bichan grew up in the Orkney islands off the north coast of Scotland, and she picked up the fiddle when she was just seven years old. She sharpened her skills in Glasgow’s session scene while studying at the Glasgow School of Art, then earned a scholarship to Berklee College of Music in Boston. Today she’s a Scottish musician and photographer living in the United States, and she uses both to tell stories, old and new. Her music blends traditional and classical arrangements, and it’s thoughtful, curious, and playful all at once.

22:11 – Louise Bichan “Binnorie-O” from Binnorie-O

26:48 – CREDITS

Thanks for listening to Pub Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen.

You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list at follow@celtfather to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I’m performing.

Sláinte, and thanks for listening.

Join the Quest and Sing Along at www.pubsong.com!

We’re repodcasting a Celtic Christmas episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. +It’s Celtic Christmas Music #93

The Gothard Sisters, Brad Tuck, The Chivalrous Crickets, The McDades, Mad Maudlin, Brendan Monaghan, The Langer's Ball, The Sternwheelers, Scythian, Corey Purcell, Drumspyder, Crossed Cannons, Clare Cunningham, Alisa Marie, Bart Zeal, Plunk Murray, Ashley Davis, Anne Roos & David Blonski, Enda Reilly

The next podcast launches on October 25. I dug into the archives of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast as part of a 2026 Fundraiser. The show is trying to raise $2000 to cover all of the expenses of putting on the show.

If you would like to donate go to CelticChristmasMusic.net/donate

0:02 – WELCOME TO CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC

Greetings, and welcome to the Celtic Christmas Podcast. I'm Marc Gunn, the Celtfather, and I am so glad you're here.

The season is just beginning, and I wanted to open it with something special. What you're about to hear is a fantastic Christmas show that was originally released on our companion Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. It first aired back in 2023 on my weekly show. And it is a full hour and more of gorgeous, joyful, independent Celtic Christmas music.

You'll hear the Gothard Sisters, Scythian, the McDades, Brendan Monaghan, Ashley Davis, and so many more. Songs by the fireside, carols with a Celtic heart, and a few surprises along the way.

Now, before we dive in, let me be honest with you about something.

This show runs on your support. Brand new episodes are coming in November and December, and making them takes real resources. An engineer to mix every track. An artist for the show art. Hosting, promotion, and the hours it takes to pull it all together.

So right now, we are running our season fundraiser. And becoming a patron is the single best way to keep this music coming. It starts at just one dollar a month. For a single dollar, you get every new episode early, before anyone else, and ad-free versions of them all. And you become part of the reason this season happens.

If this show has ever brought you a little joy, this is your moment to be part of it. Just go to patreon.com/celticchristmas

Alright. Pour something warm, settle in, and enjoy Celtic Christmas 2023.

—

Nollaig shona daoibh! Enjoy Irish & Celtic Christmas music for 2023 on show #640.

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items for Celtic music and culture online. Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create next year's Best Celtic music of 2023 episode.  Vote Now!

You can also follow our playlists on Spotify and YouTube. These feature the top songs two weeks after the polls open. It also makes it easier for you to add these artists to your own playlists.

1:49 – The Gothard Sisters “Here We Come A Caroling” from A Celtic Christmas

5:04 – WELCOME

6:56 – Brad Tuck “The Christmas Ornament” from Songs for Christmastime

10:37 – The Chivalrous Crickets “Carol Set  –  Sussex Carol / Bring a Torch Isabella / In dulci jubilo / Ding Dong Merrily on High” from A Chivalrous Christmas

16:07 – The McDades “Dreaming on a Yuletide Night” from A Winter Collection

18:34 – Mad Maudlin “The Snowy Path” from Empty Chairs

22:15 – Brendan Monaghan “The Snow Fell Down” from Lovers Always Win

25:55 – FEEDBACK

27:30 – The Langer's Ball “Christmas in Carrick” from Single  –  2023

30:02 – The Sternwheelers “No Room For A Christmas Tree” from Fairytale of New York

34:18 – Scythian “I Saw Three Ships” from Christmas Out at Sea

37:28 – Corey Purcell “Arthur McBride” from Undaunted

43:28 – Drumspyder “Winter Nights” from Sunne and Mona

47:33 – Crossed Cannons “I'm Stuck in the Chimney” from A Pirate Christmas Story

50:21 – Clare Cunningham “Feel Good Christmas” from Feel Good Christmas

53:45 – THANKS

56:04 – Alisa Marie “O'Carolan's Cup” from Winter Harp (by the fireside)

58:10 – Bart Zeal “Yule” from December Celebrations

1:00:48 – Plunk Murray “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” from Christmas in the Pub

1:04:57 – Anne Roos & David Blonski “A Winter's Dance” from A Winter's Dance

1:09:35 – Ashley Davis (feat. Colin Farrell) “The Snows of Marrakesh” from Songs of the Celtic

1:13:08 – Enda Reilly “Tá An Nollaig Linn” from Christmas is With Us (Tá An Nollaig Linn)

1:15:58 – CLOSING

1:18:48 – The Celtic Kitchen Party “Jingle Bells” from One Celtic Christmas

1:22:09 – CREDITS

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn.

This podcast is here to build our diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. Musicians rely on your support to keep making music. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

If you are a Celtic musician or in a Celtic band, then please submit your band to be played on the podcast. You don’t have to send in music or an EPK. Just complete the permission form at 4celts.com.

Do you want to enjoy more Celtic Christmas Music? We have a companion podcast that only runs during the last couple o’months of the year. It’s called Celtic Christmas Music. There are over 70 episodes in the feed by some of the best independent Celtic bands with Christmas music. Patrons of that podcast also enjoy music – only episodes. That’s a lovely way to enjoy Christmas music during the holiday.

You can also pick up a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music while you’re there. Email gift@bestcelticmusic

You are amazing. It is because of your generosity that you get to hear so much great Celtic music each and every week.

Your kindness pays for our engineer, graphic designer, Celtic Music Magazine editor, promotion of the podcast, and allows me to buy the music I play here. It also pays for my time creating the show each and every week.

As a patron, you get music – only episodes before regular listeners, vote in the Celtic Top 20, stand – alone stories, and you get a private feed to listen to the show.  All that for as little as $1 per episode.

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Bill Mandeville, Marti Meyers, Brenda, Karen, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Carol Baril, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

Every year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

Wasn't that a joy? Every artist you just heard is an independent musician, making Celtic Christmas music that no big record label would ever pay for. Music that, honestly, lives in very few places in this world. This show is one of them.

And here is why I'm asking for your help today. Starting right now, we are kicking off our season fundraiser. Let me be straight with you about what we're doing and why.

Our goal is two thousand dollars. That number funds the entire season. The brand new episodes coming in November and December. The engineer who mixes them. The artist who makes them beautiful. The hosting that carries them to your ears. All of it.

But here is the real reason. This music only survives if people like you decide it is worth keeping. These independent artists need listeners who show up for them. This show needs you. Not as a customer, but as a partner. When you become a patron, you are not buying something. You are keeping something alive.

And you get something lovely in return. Every episode early, before anyone else. Ad-free versions of them all. It starts at just one dollar a month. Give a little more, five or ten, and there are album downloads and behind-the-scenes extras waiting. Prefer to give once? A single gift works beautifully too. You’ll find a link on how to give in the shownotes.

Two thousand dollars. One season. Help me get there. Go to patreon.com/celticchristmas .  And everything lives at celticchristmaspodcast.com

To everyone already on board, thank you from the bottom of my heart. You are the reason this music plays.

Nollaig Shona Daoibh!

#celticchristmas #celticchristmasmusic

This week's playlist travels from the pubs of Ireland to the hills of Appalachia and back across the water. Celtic Underground takes on Spancil Hill, Boiled In Lead sails away, Jim Moray gives the Lily of the West a fresh coat of paint, and Some One's Sons wake Finnegan all over again. Fifteen artists, one long road home. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #779.   –    –   Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson, Trí, Jesse Ferguson, Tulua, Mairi McGillivray, Irish Millie, Celtic Underground, Avourneen, Slugger's Rule, Maggie MacInnes, Some One's Sons, Mick Flannery, Anaïs Mitchell, Boiled In Lead, The Elders, Jim Moray

Marc Gunn, Trí, The Elders, Boiled In Lead, Jim Moray, Mick Flannery, Maggie MacInnes, Tulua, Mairi McGillivray, Irish Millie

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

0:02 – Intro: Tiffany Kerruish of Fynoderee Distillery

0:53 – Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson   –   “Miss Langford's / Big Pat's / The Dairy Maid” from Once Through the Hall

4:28 – WELCOME

6:17 – Trí   –   “The Connaught Man's Rambles / The Races of Castlebar / The Bohola Jig” (Mayo set) from The Cuckoo Sings in May

(pronunciation: Trí = TREE, Bohola = buh   –   HOH   –   luh)

9:49 – Jesse Ferguson   –   “The Unquiet Grave” from Carried Forward

14:24 – Tulua   –   “Sandy Horizon / The Big Reel of Ballynacally / The Wild Irishman” (reels) from In The Snug

(pronunciation: Ballynacally = bal   –   ee   –   nuh   –   KAL   –   ee)

17:02 – Mairi McGillivray   –   “Starlings” from Mo Thìr

(pronunciation: Mo Thìr = moh HEER)

21:21 – FEEDBACK

23:18 – Irish Millie   –   “Am I Enough” from Can You See Me?

27:36 – Celtic Underground   –   “Spancil Hill” from You Can Always Go Home

31:44 – Avourneen   –   “Austin Station” from Way Stations

(pronunciation: Avourneen = ah   –   VOOR   –   neen)

35:46 – Slugger's Rule   –   “He Loves Her Still ft. Far Away Waltz” from Clusterfolk

38:58 – Maggie MacInnes   –   “Cumha Hiortach” from Uiseagan Bharraigh

(pronunciation: Cumha Hiortach = KOO   –   uh HEERSH   –   tukh, Uiseagan Bharraigh = OOSH   –   uh   –   gan VAR   –   ee)

44:46 – THANKS

46:33 – Some One's Sons   –   “Finnegan's Wake” from The Boom is Back

49:35 – Mick Flannery feat. Anaïs Mitchell   –   “Rising Tide” from The House Must Win

(pronunciation: Anaïs = ah   –   nah   –   EES)

53:38 – Boiled In Lead   –   “(I'll Sing You) Sail Away, Ladies” from King of the Dogwoods

58:18 – The Elders   –   “The Celtic Warrior” from The Spirits and The Sea

1:02:47 – CLOSING

1:03:44 – Jim Moray   –   “Flora (The Lily of the West)” from Gallants

1:07:32 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at   www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen of Cyanwoode with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Here's some good news about your electricity. A July 2026 report from the International Renewable Energy Agency found that more than 90 percent of the new utility  –  scale renewable projects built in 2025 produced power more cheaply than the cheapest new fossil fuel option. Battery storage costs fell about 30 percent in the same year.

That's real opportunity, and a lot of it gets decided close to home. Many utilities and state regulators publish long  –  term energy plans and invite public comment before they're approved. City councils weigh in on solar on public buildings and community solar programs too.

This week, search your utility's website for its next long  –  term energy plan. Then send one short comment, or attend one meeting. A few friendly voices from neighbors who want affordable, clean power can go a long way.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

Because we are more than just a radio show. We are a community. A community of Celtic music and culture lovers. We support small and local artists. We spend money on things that truly matter. The personal and heart felt.

You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

The 2nd Annual Celtic PodFest and Nerdy Arts Market happens Sunday, February 28, 2027, at The Lost Druid Brewery in Avondale Estates, Georgia, from 11:30 in the morning until 5:30 in the evening. We've got a wonderful lineup: Olivia Bradley, The BorderCollies, May Will Bloom, and a solo set from yours truly, The Celtfather. Plus a Nerdy Arts Market full of independent makers.

To learn more and mark your calendar, head to celticmusic.org

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood  –  burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one  –  of  –  a  –  kind feel you won't find anywhere else.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

Every week, your support pays the graphic designer, the audio engineer, and the server bills that keep this podcast online. It also helps me promote the show, and it buys music from the artists I feature. That's a lot of good work happening because of you.

Thank you to every patron who gives each month. Members get a say in the best songs of the year, free copy of the Great St Patrick's Day Songbook, and a friendly place to talk Celtic music with people who love it as much as you do. All of it lives at SongHenge.com.

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

Every year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2027, we're hiking the Isle of Skye. Head on over to http://celticinvasion.com/.

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

What are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Jan Turner emailed last December: “Thank you and Merry Christmas to you and the entire Marc Gunn “family” as well.  Thanks for the music!   May the coming year bring all of you good health, happiness and love.”

Tracy Lucky emailed a photo and wrote: “I almost forgot. ! I love the way you pronounce my name coming from French Quebec not many people say my name correctly and you always pull the a in O'Shea just a little and it makes it sound so musical!

Picture of Shar for tax.”

Fiddles take the lead this week. Blazin' Fiddles light up the set with Incendo, Adagio Trio bring a quiet Skye Boat Song, and Shooglenifty and Kalos keep the feet moving. John Doyle adds songs of the Irish in the American Revolution.It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #778.  –  –  Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Téada, RTÉ Concert Orchestra, House of Hamill, Louise Bichan, Blazin' Fiddles, Clay Babies, Aaron Dolan, McFloosey, Adagio Trio, John Doyle, Gerry Maguire, The Muckers, Gaelic Mishap, Shooglenifty, Kalos

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

0:06 – Téada with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra conducted by Karen Ní Bhroin  –  “The Tenpenny Piece | Comb Your Hair and Curl It | Larry McDonagh's” (slip jig, hop jigs) from Orchestrating 25

Pronunciation: Téada is CHAY – duh. Karen Ní Bhroin is KAIR – en nee VRIN.

4:05 – WELCOME

7:11 – House of Hamill  –  “Smokejumper” from Wildfire

12:28 – Louise Bichan  –  “Three Ravens” from Binnorie

Pronunciation: Binnorie is bin – OR – ee.

16:17 – Blazin' Fiddles  –  “Ricky & June” from Incendo

20:18 – Clay Babies  –  “Marley's Bedding” from In Other Words

23:47 – FEEDBACK

26:03 – Aaron Dolan  –  “The Boys of Bluehill” from Farewell to Tir Na nÓg

Pronunciation: Tir Na nÓg is TEER nuh NOHG.

27:42 – McFloosey  –  “The Knickers of Corduroy” from Balscadden Bay

Pronunciation: Balscadden is bal – SKAD – en.

30:14 – Adagio Trio  –  “Skye Boat Song” from Celtic Heart

33:21 – John Doyle  –  “Man Is Free By Nature” from Free by Nature: Songs of the Irish in the American Revolution

37:30 – THANKS

39:09 – Gerry Maguire  –  “Courtin' in the Cooley Hills” from Where Do You Belong

Pronunciation: Cooley is COO – lee.

42:21 – The Muckers  –  “Old Dun Cow” from The Muckers

46:05 – Gaelic Mishap  –  “The Impossible Destinal Festival” from From the Edge

49:44 – Shooglenifty  –  “Up The McFud” from Stamina Island

Pronunciation: Shooglenifty is SHOO – gul – NIF – tee.

55:59 – CLOSING

57:05 – Kalos  –  “Pretty Good Friday/Ladybug” from Tamarack

1:01:18 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at   www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen of Cyanwoode with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Want to cut your energy bill and help the climate at the same time? Start with the place you know best: your own home.

Most homes lose a surprising amount of energy through small gaps. Around the windows. Under the doors. Up in the attic. Sealing those gaps is one of the simplest and most affordable upgrades there is, and it often pays for itself in lower bills.

Here's your call to action. This week, call or visit the website of your local utility and ask about a home energy check. Many utilities offer free or low – cost ones, and some have rebates for insulation and weatherproofing. It takes about ten minutes to ask.

A cozier home, a smaller bill, and a little less carbon in the air. That's a good trade.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

Because we are more than just a radio show. We are a community. A community of Celtic music and culture lovers. We support small and local artists. We spend money on things that truly matter. The personal and heart felt.

You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

I want to take a moment to say thank you.

Because of you, the 2027 Celtic PodFest is funded. We hit our goal, and we even raised a little beyond it, enough to help cover some of the extra costs that come with making all the merch, the live album, the zine, and everything we're bringing to this festival. That means we are moving full steam ahead.

To everyone who pledged, who shared, who cheered us on… thank you from the bottom of my heart. You turned a hopeful idea into a real day of Celtic music. This festival is yours as much as it is mine.

So let me tell you what you helped build. The 2nd Annual Celtic PodFest and Nerdy Arts Market happens Sunday, February 28, 2027, at The Lost Druid Brewery in Avondale Estates, Georgia, from 11:30 in the morning until 5:30 in the evening. We've got a wonderful lineup: Olivia Bradley, The BorderCollies, May Will Bloom, and a solo set from yours truly, The Celtfather. Plus a Nerdy Arts Market full of independent makers.

And here's something for everyone listening, no matter where in the world you are. We'll be recording the festival, and there will be a podcast episode right here highlighting the music from the day. So even if you can't make it to Georgia, you'll still get to hear the magic.

Whether you backed the Kickstarter or you're just hearing about this now, you are invited. Come spend the day with us. There'll be great music, great art, cold pints, and the best community in Celtic music.

To learn more and mark your calendar, head to celticmusic.org.

Thank you again. I can't wait to celebrate with you on February 28. Slainte!

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood – burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one – of – a – kind feel you won't find anywhere else.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

Every episode of this podcast exists because of you. Your support pays for the graphic designer, it pays for the audio engineer, and it lets me buy music from the artists I feature, so they see something back for the songs you hear. Thank you to every patron who chips in each month. You keep this show independent and weekly.

Patrons also get a seat in a community of fellow Celtic music fans who share discoveries every day. That community lives at SongHenge.com. Come and meet us.

Thanks to our newest Patron of the Podcast: Ruairi Hipkin

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

Every year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2027, we're hiking the Isle of Skye. Two slots just opened up. If you’d like to join us, head on over to http://celticinvasion.com/. It is first come, first served.

And I can tell you we will be staying in Portree on the Isle of Skye and we’ll be hiking the Fairy Pools. Come join us!

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

What are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Trudy B Brown of Denver, CO: “I can't quite figure out how to listen to the music, without the magazine (I don't have time for that. I barely remember to listen to the show which I previously did via my laptop, which is where I am most of the time. And, I barely remember to listen even once a month. I don't understand or know how to get podcasts and not really interested in them.)

Is this the only way I can hear your show anymore?”

Anna Gatz emailed: “Hello! My name is Anna! I discovered the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast when I was bored of normal workout music and wanted something different to workout to! I love listening while I crochet or sew in the evenings! Thank you so much for what you do bringing more awareness to the world of Celtic music!

I also want to recommend the band Music the Gathering!”

Wildfire, whales, and a farewell that turned out not to be final. This week's episode centers on House of Hamill and Enter the Haggis, whose members are reuniting on stage at the Sherwood Celtic Yuletide Festival this December. Fiddles from Scotland's Blazin' Fiddles and Shooglenifty bookend the set, with fresh sounds from Billow Wood, Gaelic Mishap, and Lo & the High Road along the way. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #777.  –  –  Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Aaron Dolan, Blazin' Fiddles, Trish Wesevich, Pomplas, McFloosey, House of Hamill, Enter the Haggis, Shooglenifty, Billow Wood, Lo & the High Road, Gaelic Mishap, Rebecca Hill and Charlie Stewart

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

0:02 – Intro: House of Hamill

0:16 – Aaron Dolan — “Scotland The Brave” from Farewell to Tir Na nÓg

1:34 – WELCOME

4:02 – Blazin' Fiddles — “Father Angus” from Incendo

9:05 – Trish Wesevich — “The Mist of Avalon”

13:43 – Pomplas — “Farewell to the Corncrake”

17:39 – McFloosey — “Kiss Kill or Marry me” from Balscadden Bay

22:44 – FEEDBACK

25:15 – INTERVIEW WITH HOUSE OF HAMILL

25:41 – HOUSE OF HAMILL: ABOUT THE BAND

33:08 – House of Hamill — “Banks of the Brandywine” from Wildfire

36:21 – HOUSE OF HAMILL: ABOUT THE ALBUM

43:11 – House of Hamill — “Silver Dagger” from Wildfire

45:22 – HOUSE OF HAMILL: RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS

52:02 – Enter the Haggis — “Swallowed By a Whale” from Swallowed By a Whale – Single

56:26 – INTERVIEW OUTRO

56:48 – THANKS

59:47 – Shooglenifty — “My Old Pal Aonghas”

Pronunciation: “Aonghas” is the Scottish Gaelic form of Angus, roughly “UN – uss.”

1:06:02 – Billow Wood — “Out at Sea”

1:08:35 – Lo & the High Road — “Lanterns in the Mist”

1:12:01 – Gaelic Mishap — “Larks in the Morning” from From the Edge

1:15:04 – CLOSING

1:15:33 – Rebecca Hill and Charlie Stewart — “Kait's (Single)”

1:19:13 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at   www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen of Cyanwoode with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Clean energy keeps getting cheaper, and that shift is showing up close to home, not just in headlines. Solar and wind installations are creating local jobs, and towns that invest early tend to see lower long – term energy costs for residents. The best part is you don't need to wait on Washington. Local decisions, town halls, utility co – ops, all of it adds up. If you want a way to help without changing your whole life, show up to one local meeting this year and ask what your community's energy plan looks like.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

Because we are more than just a radio show. We are a community. A community of Celtic music and culture lovers. We support small and local artists. We spend money on things that truly matter. The personal and heart felt.

You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

A huge thanks to everyone who made a pledge to make the Celtic PodFest happen. I’m happy to say we hit our goal. Most of the rewards won’t be available until the festival launches on Sunday, February 28, 2027 at The Lost Druid Brewery in Avondale Estates, Ga.

If you’re interested in some limited – edition swag, including CDs, album pins, and shirts, then make sure you visit the Kickstarter. You can still make some late pledges to the festival to make it a smashing success.

Head on over to our Kickstarter for the Celtic PodFest. You’ll find a link in the shownotes.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood – burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one – of – a – kind feel you won't find anywhere else.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

Every episode like this one takes extra time… going back and forth booking the interview, editing the audio which is longer than usual, getting the show notes formatted and out the door. Patrons cover the graphic designer, the audio engineer, and a fair bit of my own time keeping this show going. Thank you for that.

This week especially, I want to thank the Patrons who make it possible to sit down with artists like House of Hamill and actually have room to ask fun questions about the music.

Patron perks include early access to episodes, and yes, an extended interview just for patrons. Head over to Patreon to see what’s waiting there.

Raise a glass to our Celtic Legends who pledge $30 or more month: Fuzzy, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Dan mcDade, Jeff Adelsberger, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Round Rock Image Creators, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

Every year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2027, we're hiking the Isle of Skye. Two slots just opened up. If you’d like to join us, head on over to http://celticinvasion.com/. It is first come, first served.

And I can tell you we will be staying in Portree on the Isle of Skye and we’ll be hiking the Fairy Pools. Come join us!

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

What are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Jim Treslobos emailed: “Dear Marc Gunn

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast first landed in my feed when I was still carrying an iPod. I’d listen to the current episode and catch up the previous installments on the drive to and from work. Learning about various Celtic bands from all over the planet expanded my world view and allowed me to support those independent artists.

I applaud your response to last week’s challenging criticism and offer my financial support (finally) for the podcast.

You will not be getting a photo showing what I’m doing while listening to the podcast because it’s my companion during house work.

As they say on Firefly, “See you in the verse”.

Jim

PS The Wicked Tinker’s “Aiken Drum” (Big Bottle of Bad Ideas) is not a contemporary rebel song, but may help illustrate your point.`”

Tom Cochran emailed: “Thanks for getting back to me so quickly.

I am actually still giving $1 a month on an old account listed  and at the $5 level with my current email.

I had been listening on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast app. When that stopped working I started using the Patreon app. Which has worked well for several months until episode 745. The last three episodes have shown up as 5min. samples.”

HIGHLIGHT REEL 5.4 OF 2026

Greetings Celtophiles

Here’s the Highlight Reel of 2026. You have three weeks to vote for your favorites tracks from shows #758 – 764

You can vote for as many tracks as you like. And the more you vote, the more your vote counts.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

758

1:29 – Tartanic “Slapping Paddies” from Uncivilized

4:24 – Charlene Adzima “Jimmie McGetrick's/John Naughton's/Tom Ward's Downfall” from The Initiation

7:35 – Banshee in the Kitchen “King of Laoise” from Band O' Shees

759

11:25 – Hanneke Cassel “Strathspey O' Death #1 / Strathspey O'Death #2 / Colonel Thornton / Running Around the Tree” from Some Melodious Sonnet

15:39 – Low Lily “Brothers in Arms” from 10,000 Days Like These

20:20 – Sean Heely and Beth Patterson “Allan Tyne of Harrow” from Stir the Blood to Fire

760

25:32 – Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh “Do Bhí Bean Uasal” from Neadú

32:14 – Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira “Arising” from All It Brings

761

36:32 – Gerry O'Connor “Stereo Connor (Polkas)” from Last Night's Joy

40:48 – Fiallal “No Fear No Grace” from A Rare Thing

45:10 – Clanna Morna “Virginia / Martin Wynne's #2 / Morning Dew” from From The Lowlands To The High Seas

49:19 – Alexander James Adams “Blue Heron/Cranky Crawdads/Mittens on the Moon” from Cat & the Fiddle

54:06 – Jiggy “I'm With You” from Translate

763

57:45 – Runa “For All That You Do Set” from When The Light Gets In

1:03:18 – Matt and Shannon Heaton “P Joe Hayes #2/Cottage in the Grove/Mother and Child (reels)” from Whirring Wings

764

1:07:21 – Mary Beth Carty “Mary Anne”

1:11:08 – Trouz Bras “Life is for Living” from Edge of the Spiral: Celtic Music of Brittany

1:15:06 – Hildaland “The Watchman's Polka (feat. Ethan Setiawan & Louise Bichan)” from Fiddle Tunes (feat. Ethan Setiawan & Louise Bichan)  –  EP

1:18:29 – CREDITS

Highlight Reels was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. The show was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather. Promote Celtic culture through music with the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

We’re talking about the Kickstarter for the 2027 Celtic PodFest and sharing some music.  –  –  Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

A huge thanks to everyone who made a pledge to make the Celtic PodFest happen. I’m happy to say we hit our goal. Most of the rewards won’t be available until the festival launches on Sunday, February 28, 2027 at The Lost Druid Brewery in Avondale Estates, Ga.

If you’re interested in some limited – edition swag, including CDs, album pins, and shirts, then make sure you visit the Kickstarter. You can still make some late pledges to the festival to make it a smashing success.

Head on over to our Kickstarter for the Celtic PodFest. You’ll find a link in the shownotes.

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

741

3:06 – Heather Dale “The Morrigan” from Fairytale

6:24 – The Gothard Sisters “See You Down the Road” from Moment in Time

10:19 – Brobdingnagian Bards “I'm Coming Home” from Another Faire to Remember

742

14:50 – Kinnfolk “The Water's Rising/Gwendal” from Star Above The Mountain

20:32 – Poitin “Bar Eye” from Simple Pleasures

24:13 – Aisling Drost Byrne, Brendan McCarthy & Conal O'Kane “The Girl That Broke my Heart / Máire na Sop / The Dear Tobacco” from JUMP OUT OF IT

27:21 – The Langer's Ball “The Wild Rover Polka” from Drinking Song Sing  –  A  –  Long (2025)

743

30:27 – Nerea The Fiddler “Kitchen Music” from Off The Beatn Path

33:41 – Mary Beth Carty “A’ Challuinn : ‘S e gillean mo rùin / Walking the Floor / Capers Jig / Miss Anderson’s Jig” from single

37:28 – Socks in the Frying Pan “Willy Annes Waltz” from Waiting for Inspiration

744

40:54 – Albannach “Auld Nick's A Piper” from Eye Of The Storm

43:31 – Tradify “Waterman’s, Waterman’s Jig & Superfly” from Take Flight

47:55 – Low Power Trio “Jug of Punch” from Dirty Old Town

745

50:48 – Aisling Drost Byrne, Brendan McCarthy & Conal O'Kane “The Millbrae Mazurka / Francie Dearg's / Finbar Dwyer's Reel”

54:13 – Poitin “Tired by Kids” from Simple Pleasures

58:14 – Shannon Heaton “Bow for Rama” from Perfect Maze

746

1:01:40 – Aisling Drost Byrne, Brendan McCarthy & Conal O'Kane “The Skylark's Ascension / Sonny Brogan's / The Connaughtman's Rambles”

1:05:39 – Lane to the Glen “The Gráinne Mhaol : Malloy’s Favourite (Barndance : Reel)” from Lane to the Glen

1:10:08 – Alex Sturbaum “Soundcheck Set” from River Run Wide

1:15:00 – Jen Midkiff (she/her) “This Moment (between Good and Pretti)” from single

1:19:06 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at   www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen of Cyanwoode with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Clean energy keeps getting cheaper, and that shift is showing up close to home, not just in headlines. Solar and wind installations are creating local jobs, and towns that invest early tend to see lower long – term energy costs for residents. The best part is you don't need to wait on Washington. Local decisions, town halls, utility co – ops, all of it adds up. If you want a way to help without changing your whole life, show up to one local meeting this year and ask what your community's energy plan looks like.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

Because we are more than just a radio show. We are a community. A community of Celtic music and culture lovers. We support small and local artists. We spend money on things that truly matter. The personal and heart felt.

You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood – burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one – of – a – kind feel you won't find anywhere else.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

Every episode like this one takes extra time… going back and forth booking the interview, editing the audio which is longer than usual, getting the show notes formatted and out the door. Patrons cover the graphic designer, the audio engineer, and a fair bit of my own time keeping this show going. Thank you for that.

This week especially, I want to thank the Patrons who make it possible to sit down with artists like House of Hamill and actually have room to ask fun questions about the music.

Patron perks include early access to episodes, and yes, an extended interview just for patrons. Head over to Patreon to see what’s waiting there.

Raise a glass to our Celtic Legends who pledge $30 or more month: Fuzzy, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Dan mcDade, Jeff Adelsberger, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Round Rock Image Creators, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

Every year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2027, we're hiking the Isle of Skye. Two slots just opened up. If you’d like to join us, head on over to http://celticinvasion.com/. It is first come, first served.

And I can tell you we will be staying in Portree on the Isle of Skye and we’ll be hiking the Fairy Pools. Come join us!

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

What are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

What if Christmas had no lyrics? Just fiddles, whistles, pipes, and dulcimers dancing through your speakers? That's episode 92. And it is spectacular.

It’s Celtic Christmas Music #92

The Fire, The Rogues, The Jig is Up!, Cedar Dobson, The Lilies of the Midwest, Ashley MacIsaac, Maggie Sansone, Irish Christmas in America, Gaelynn Lea

0:07 – The Fire “The Jingle Bells Suite” from The Fire's Very Scottish Christmas

4:12 – WELCOME TO CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC

I am Marc Gunn. I am Celtic musician and podcaster. We are promoting Celtic culture through Christmas cheer. We want to bring a little magic and joy into your holiday season.

If you hear music you love, please support the artists. You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes as well as how to support this podcast at CelticChristmasPodcast.com

Here's a fun bit of Celtic Christmas history for you. In Ireland and Scotland, the Christmas season has always been as much about music as it is about food and family. Long before recorded sound, communities gathered in homes for what the Irish called a ceili and the Scots called a ceilidh. These weren't formal concerts. They were impromptu house parties. A fiddle came out. A whistle joined in. A bodhrán kept time. People danced, told stories, and played tune after tune deep into the night. The music was instrumental, informal, and joyful.

In Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, that tradition carried on through the Scottish diaspora. Christmas gatherings there still often feature fiddle players trading tunes by the fireplace. Episode 92 is a love letter to that tradition. No lyrics required. Just the music doing what it's always done. Bringing people together.

5:34 – The Rogues “Hellbound Sleigh” from Hellbound Sleigh

10:08 –  The Jig is Up! “The Four Kings” from A Penny for the Wren

14:27 – Cedar Dobson “We Wish You a Merry Christmas / Trepak (The Nutcracker) / Jingle Bells / Auld Lang Syne” from A Whistle Wonderland: Christmas Melodies in a Celtic Style

18:46 – THANK YOU FOR SPREADING CHRISTMAS CHEER!

There's something truly special about music that needs no words. Celtic Christmas Music episode 92 is proof of that. Every fiddle run, every pipe melody, every whistle phrase says something words can't. Thank you for listening. You make this show worth making.

And a massive thank you to the Patrons who keep Celtic Christmas Music alive year after year. You are the reason this podcast exists. If you want to support the show and help us bring even more incredible Celtic music to the world. Here's your three-step plan:

20:03 – The Lilies of the Midwest “Siobhan's Snowy Wedding” from Cats' Ceili

23:53 – Ashley MacIsaac “Fiddle Medley: March of the Cameron Men / The Glencoe March / Laddie With the Paddle Strathspey / Jenny Dang the Weaver Reel / Irish Reel” from A Cape Breton Christmas

33:16 – Maggie Sansone “Here We Come A-Wassailing / Bottom of the Punch Bowl” from A Scottish Christmas

36:48 –  Irish Christmas in America “Mazurkas – Christmas in Spiddal, Twelve to a Bar” from A Long Way From Home

39:44 – CLOSING

40:24 – Gaelynn Lea “Wexford Carol / O Christmas Tree” from Deepest Darkness, Brightest Dawn

42:49 – CREDITS

Celtic Christmas Music was produced by Marc Gunn and our Christmas Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to subscribe to the podcast. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Here's something to think about this holiday season. Every time you buy a locally made product, support a small business, or choose a clean energy provider, you are casting a vote. Not at a ballot box. With your wallet. Big corporations spend billions buying political influence because they know consumer power works. Prove them right. Choose solar. Choose local. Choose companies that put people and the planet before profit. Your spending decisions shape the world more than you think. This Christmas, be intentional about where your money goes. Make it count. Find clean energy options in your area and switch today.

Promote Celtic culture through Christmas music at CelticChristmasPodcast.com.

Nollaig Shona Daoibh!

#celticchristmas #celticchristmasmusic