Music can be an issue when practicing; you need something the right speed, with the correct dance music, and most of all you need something that not only sounds like the traditional music you'll hear at feis but also upbeat and up-to-date enough for you to feel really pumped. I've tried quite a few cds now, and I believe that if you want something that sounds quite upbeat, modern and fun you could definitely do worse than the works of Ryan Lacey and Ellery Klein.
Ryan and Ellery's music hits the right note between traditional and modern with complex and modern-sounding tunes being played on traditional Irish instruments, and with 2 albums to choose from you're spoilt for choice. Their first album, Step Into the Beat, has quite up-tempo, pretty-sounding music that makes dancing really enjoyable with simple and easy levels on the discs for the different speeds of dance, as well as a couple of set dances thrown into the mix as well. With the main basis being the violin (or fiddle) with drumbeats to keep rhythm it's enjoyable to listen to as well as dance too, and really helpful when you're trying to fit your steps to the music and keep time.
However, I think my favourite of the two is their second album, Kick Into the Beat. As the title suggests, this music really packs a punch with fast tempos, complicated music with a mix of instruments including the guitar and real feel of energy. If you're looking for some music that really seems to try and inject some energy into your dancing whether you like it or not, this is the sort you should buy. I especially love the "Meek Maid's Reels" which contrary to the name has nothing "meek" about it.
Listen to their music on iTunes or amazon.com and try it for yourself. Happy dancing!
