We are happy to offer some special notes on all of the songs on the LIVE CD. Some of the text will be identical to that found on the CD, while there are special comments and further information added--and, of course, lyrics so that you can sing along!. We hope you will enjoy this companion to your CD purchase.
liner notes
Whiskey in the Jar is one of the most-requested songs that we perform. It's just another of those Irish love songs that end with the poor fellow in trouble with the law after being turned in by his girlfriend. The song has been covered by practically everyone, from folk to rock bands, and done in myriad styles.
It's always fun to find out whether an audience can clap to
the chorus, and the results are as varied as the Pubs in
which we play...
Whiskey in the Jar
As I was goin' over the Cork and Kerry Mountains,
I met with Capt. Farrell
and his money he was countin';
I first produced my pistol, then I drew my sabre,
Sayin’: “Stand and deliver for I am a bold deceiver!”
With me ring dum doodle dum da, (4 claps)
whack fol the daddy-o (2 claps)
Whack fol the daddy o,
There's Whiskey in the Jar!
He counted out his money and
it made a pretty penny;
I put it in me pocket
and I gave it to my Jenny.
She sighed and she swore she loved me,
that she never would betray me;
But the devil takes the women
for they never can be easy.
I went into my chamber all for to take slumber,
I dreamt of gold and jewels,
and for sure it was no wonder;
But Jenny, she drew my charges
and she filled them up with water;
And she called on Capt. Farrell
to be ready for the slaughter!
Twas early in the mornin',
before I rose to travel;
Up comes a band of footmen,
and likewise Capt. Farrell.
I then produced my pistol,
for she stole away me rapier,
But a prisoner I was taken,
for I could not shoot the water!
Now, if anyone can aid me,
it’s my brother in the army;
If I only knew his station is it Cork or in Killarney?
And if he'd come and join me
we'd go rovin' through Killkenny;
I'll engage he'd treat me fairer
than my darling, sporting Jenny!
Now some take delight
in the fishin’ or the bowlin’
Some take delight in the carriages and rollin’;
But I take delight in the juice of the barley,
And courtin’ pretty maidens
in the morning, oh, so early!
