AMG Review of Greatest Hits

Johnny Loftus
All Music Guide

This Greatest Hits recording from the Clancy Brothers also features English folkie Louis Killen, who replaced Tommy Makem in the brothers' band. It runs through a stirring set of traditionals adapted and arranged by the Clancys and includes such live favorites as "Mountain Dew," "Jug of Punch," and "Whisky, You're the Devil," which features the memorable couplet "Whisky, you're my darlin', drunk or sober." The Clancy Brothers have always been known for their rousing vocals and they don't disappoint here, punctuating songs with whoops and hollers. The a cappella "Haul Away Joe" is a great example; you can just about feel the ocean spray and sail riggings. The presence of Killen switches up the set list a bit, with the Clancys tackling more Scottish fare than they might normally. There's also "Fathers Grave," which features the group in a harmonizing vocal configuration much different than its normal arrangement. These factors, in addition to the general entertainment of the affair, perhaps give Greatest Hits a little bit of wiggle room amidst the group's numerous retrospectives.