RIDE ON (EP)

Released one year after the band's second full-length album, The Middle Kingdom, and one year before their third full-length album, Folk-Lore, this EP features four tracks, one of which would later be included on the brilliant Folk-Lore. This song is, of course, the outstanding Ride On which features Shane Mac Gowan from The Pouges on guest vocals resulting in an unlikely but wonderful duet with Cruachan's own Karen Gilligan (plus some more aggressive vocals towards the end by Cruachan leader Keith Fey). Ride On even made an impact on the Irish charts! It is a great song, but since it is included on the Folk-Lore album there is little reason to get this EP for the sake of that song alone.

The other three tracks are all good too, however, and it is this that makes this EP a worthwhile addition in its own right. Even if generally somewhat less interesting than the band's full length albums, the songs here are fine Folk Metal songs. Though, the progressive elements of the band's sound are not particularly strong on these shorter tunes. The instrumental Maeves March was first featured on the band's debut from 1995, but is here presented in a re-recorded, faster, version with much improved sound quality. Sauron features lead vocals by Karen Gilligan, while Fey (I suppose?) takes lead on To Hell Or To Connaught? The latter incorporates at least one traditional Irish Folk melody, also utilized by Cruachan's idols Horslips.

Make sure you get the full-length albums first; from The Middle Kingdom to The Morrigan's Call. But after that, this EP can be a nice addition to your collection.