30 Year Journey (The Best) - Runrig

Advantages: All of the songs are wriiten by the band, except 7 and 17
Disadvantages: None

...I first got this when I was 17, and I wasn't to sure about it. But having decided to listen to the album, I was amazed! Runrig are a scottish folk/rock band who puts celtic, folk and rock together to create a unique sound. As the other reviewers, said about lyrics, it all depends how you look at it. I wasn't to sure on Rocket To The Moon, but listening to the whole album, it kinda makes you feel there's a spiritual presence from deep within your soul. I love the lead singer who left in 97 but I do love them still even if it's not the original lead singer. The singing stands out from Donnie Munro but also from Rory Macdonald who has brilliant harmonies Pros : All of the songs except 7 and 17 are written by the band. How can people say it's not originality is beyond me as 99% of Runrig songs are wriiten by Calum/Rory Macdonald... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Simply fantastic music!
Disadvantages: I'd prefer more Gaelic songs but this doesn't detract from what is on the album

...of the late 80s/early 90s. The album opens with the excellent Year of the Flood. The first thing you hear, before the band joins is, is Bruce Guthro singing "Can anyone explain?", and it grabs your attention immediately. The song is upbeat, and is a perfect way to open the album as it really gets you keen to hear the rest, and gives a taste of what is to come. I struggle to decide which is my favourite song from this album, but I think my favourite lyrics are in Clash of the Ash. Lyric-wise, this is a rather fun song for Runrig. It is about shinty (hence the shinty player on the cover...) and tells us about a match, from the journey there to describing the play and the sounds of the game (the clash is the noise of the sticks at the start of the game). The song ends with a little reflection on the sport and its origins. It's another upbeat... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Calming tunes
Disadvantages: Sometimes a little too much pure melody...

...Long Distance was the second Runrig album I ever got, and I was only about 8 when I got it...I've been raised on this sort of music! But, in all honesty, Long Distance is my favourite of Runrig. Some of their albums have songs which don't have that inspirational or enthusiastic feeling. Long Distance is, as it says, the best of Runrig, and so they've only included the best. Certainly a good album to listen to on long drives, or in the evenings. Relaxing celtic music, mostly in English too! The lyrics of the songs, especially those such as Protect and Survive, are really thought provoking and, unusually for a pop band, deep. Most of them are really catchy, and if you want something more traditional, there's always Loch Lomond! Cover etc. are pretty uninspiring but don't let that put you off. Not being a massively popular band outside... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful