Farewell To Nova Scotia - The Irish Rovers

Farewell To Nova Scotia - The Irish Rovers

On the Shores Of Americay, 1971

2:56

traditional, c. 1919

This song was adapted from the Scottish lament "The Soldier's Adieu" written by Robert Tannahill.  It has been covered by many artists, particularly Canadian ones, like Gordon Lightfoot.  As the title indicates, it's a sailor's adieu to his beloved homeland as he's called to service.  "The drums do beat / And the horns do alarm / My captain calls, I must obey / Farewell, farewell to Nova Scotia's charms."  The Rovers play it straight, with that innate nautical feel the Irish seem to be able to conjure.

Finnegan's Wake - The Irish Rovers

Finnegan's Wake - The Irish Rovers

3:32

Hardstuff, 1989

traditional

I've heard this great song from the usual Celtic folk groups, of course.  The Rovers (with George Millar still leading the group like he did in 1963!) give this an uptempo, singalong arrangement, with less of the dour faux-funereal stuff of the Dubliners.  With bazouki, flute, banjo, and a rattling percussion, and some subtle party sound effects in the back, the Rovers make it a fine ould Irish wake indeed.