Originally a Scottish or English song from the 17th century, this song has become a integral part of the Irish folk repertoire because of its historical resonance. French folk singer Renaud arranged his own song, La ballade nord-irlandaise, on this same melody in 1991. Renaud’s arrangement was an appeal for peace in Northern Ireland.
Spancil Hill is a traditional folk song about emigration and the plight of Irish immigrants in America who longed for their native land. Spancil Hill or Spancilhill is a locale near Ennis in East County Clare.
The Rising of the Moon was inspired by the 1798 rebellion in County Wexford. Written by John Keegan Casey (1846-1870), it has been recorded by many Irish Balladeers like The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem.
The ballad is laid upon the same O’Carolan melody as The Wearing of the Green. The title of the song has a double meaning as the Fenian rebellion was to begin with the rising of the moon and thus becomes the Rising of the Moon.
Alternative title: The Black Cavalry. This traditional song is about poverty and the hazards of boarding houses in 19th century Ireland. Whilst trying to sleep, this balladeer is attacked by fleas which he refers to as “the black cavalry”.
