Review: ‘Dancing or Dying?’ – Celtic Social Club

Drawing influence from bands such as The Police and The Beatles, Celtic Social Club, made up of French and Irish musicians, boast a unique sound that has captured the hearts and minds of the French crowd and now with their fourth album, they look to conquer England.

Sitting fairly outside of the country genre on this record, they introduce themselves with the single ‘For Real’ the band add a 60’s pop vibe to their Celtic roots. Scattered amongst their experimental material is the Irish ballad ‘Home’, on which they show their softer more emotive side, executing it well. So too on ‘The Silence’ we hear a more rootsy sound.

Despite having to record the album remotely, from different countries, there is a cohesiveness about the production which is credit to their drummer and producer Manu Masko. A highlight of the record is the cathartic conclusion, ‘Self Important Clown’ which crescendos throughout.

Overall, it’s a strong record from the band that I think will perform well in the UK, there is an energy that I think will transcend well to the stage.