This is the first of Dan Ar Bras' L'Héritage des Celtes albums, in which he explores the similarities and differences between the Celtic music of France and the United Kingdom. He accomplishes this by performing traditional songs from both countries and employing folk musicians and singers from France, Scotland, and Ireland. Sharing lead vocals in English are singers Elaine Morgan from Rose Among Thorns and Karen Matheson of Capercaillie fame. Notable instrumentalists include Donal Lunny on bouzouki, Nollaig Casey on fiddle, Ray Fean on drums, and of course the electric and acoustic guitar playing of Ar Bras. Dan Ar Bras does a judicious job of allowing all present to showcase their talents; however, he also excels in large-ensemble arrangements. While much of this album focuses on traditional pieces, the actual performance leans toward the contemporary, not unlike Capercaillie, especially when Matheson and Morgan sing. ~ Dave Sleger, All Music Guide
Héritage des Celtes is a folk-rock album by Dan Ar Braz, released in 1994 by Columbia France, catalogue number COL 477763 2.
The album was produced by ex-Bothy Band and Moving Hearts leader Donal Lunny. It was recorded at Windmill Lane Studios, Dublin by Brian Masterson and Alastair McMillan, and mixed by Brian Masterson and Rob Kirwan.
A live version of this material as played by Ar Braz and a large ensemble (recorded in Rennes the following year) appears on the album "Et les 50 musiciens de l'Héritage des Celtes".
