Reviews of Sweeter As The Years Roll By
"James Keane launched his album "Sweeter As The Years Roll By" at Chief O'Neill's, Smithfield, Dublin on Thursday 4th November 1999.....The lower space filled rapidly with players who I suspect would have shovelled through a snowdrift to join James. As he settled in for a few hours of  music making with old friends I counted a number of "names" who were simply standing by and watching it all unfold.

Before them, Mary Bergin, Antoinette McKenna, John Doyle, Winnie Horan, the list goes on. If a box player can draw an audience like that he must be something special. Special night, special treat."
                           --Sean Laffey, Editor, IRISH MUSIC MAGAZINE

"One of the 10 Best Folk \Trad albums of 1999, James Keane "Sweeter As The Years Roll By."
                           --THE HOT PRESS ANNUAL 2000

"His pedigree is without peer.  His recordings warm-hearted organic experience which entice both casual listener and fellow musicians alike.  This is a lovely record, suffused with warmth and the richness of a tradition, brought to life in the hands of a master. Enjoy!"
                          --Oliver P. Sweeney, HOT PRESS MAGAZINE, Nov '99

"One of those visiting musicians that I will always remember vividly is James Keane. A tall man, looking even taller perched on the high Dubliner stage, his red Paolo Soprani strapped to his chest, James unleashed a musical storm whenever he would start a tune. His long fingers flying over the buttons at a feverish pace, playing reel after reel unrelentingly, as if there would never be another chance to play them, James would always leave me  breathless - I think I actually forgot to breathe sometimes while listening to him." 
                          --Philippe Varlet - May 1999.

"James Keane in concert at Matt Molloys in Westport, Co. Mayo, holding the fort as though he were reared there."
                          --HOT PRESS MAGAZINE, Nov 8th, 1999.

"But with that squeezebox, Keane on his own can produce a rugged impeccable sesssion;  A mature old pro who paints a fat grin on your face every time.  Hup, ye boy, ye."
                           --Mic Moroney, THE IRISH TIMES, Nov 26th, 1999.

"The first time you witness James Keane playing his accordion your liable to experience an epiphany of Colossal proportions.  It's not just his musicianship that startles, but the sheer depth of passion that ignites his playing."
                          --Siobhan Long, HOT PRESS MAGAZINE, Dec 8th 1999.