THE CHIEFTAINS

A documentary about the Grammy-winning band that popularized traditional Irish music in the '70s and '80s is illustrated by interviews with friends and collaborators as well as miscellaneous cuts from their albums. Thin on detail about the group's individual members and avoiding human interest, the narrative concentrates on the collective professional career. Singer-songwriter Nanci Griffith, an occasional Chieftain collaborator, narrates with affection but, considering her musical showmanship, surprisingly little pizzazz. Though much is lacking here as documentary and biography, the CD does boast pristine sound quality and an overview of the group's contribution to popular music. Y.R. © AudioFile 2000, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 00]