This is the debut recording by the Milwaukee-based Celtic rock band
Reilly. Almost without fail, Celtic rock bands with an alternative edge will either rightly or wrongly be compared with
the Pogues. It's an easy name-drop used by critics who otherwise have limited knowledge of the vast expanse of modern Irish music. Influences notwithstanding,
Reilly has more in common with post-
Pogues Celtic rock. For instance, "Five O'Clock" has a definite
Great Big Sea "singalongability," while the driving rhythm of "Donald MacGillavry" suggests the Prodigals. Even
Luka Bloom's "City of Chicago" is rendered in a
Goats Don't Shave-like manner, while another Irish band,
the Saw Doctors, is hinted at in "A Fool's Walk." Sure, fortuitous similarities with other bands are always a matter of debate, especially with up-and-comer bands. In
Reilly's defense, though, they have developed their own sound and they do it well, irrespective of whom they may cite as musical influences. ~ Dave Sleger